A long weekend did not dampen members enthusiasm for Toastmasters. An almost full complement of members turned out giving us a full programme of Table Topics and three speeches.
Craig, as Toastmaster, ensured the meeting ran smoothly. He filled in between programme items with little pieces of information on the differences between a monarchy and a republic, as well as the cost of maintaining the Queens representative in NZ and Royal Tours to our country. Food for thought?
Song presented her word of the night – unanimous [ly]. Her report later in the evening would have you believe we are a “selfish” lot with many claiming to have personally made a unanimous decision. Maybe in a republic they would get away with that claim, but not while we are a monarchy - lol
Tony entertained with Table Topics giving us the opportunity to push our preferred sport forward to be included in the 2028 Olympics. Members were elected at random as usual, and asked why their sport should be included. Such funny topics as “Competitive Cooking”, “Singing Contest”, “Hot Dog Eating”, Sudoku”, and “Air Guitar” playing. Members had fun trying to glamorise and talk up their “chosen” sport. An exceptional and most innovative table topic session. Well done Tony.
Jan as our first prepared speaker was ably introduced by Ian. This was the last speech of her Visionary Communication path, in which she had to reflect on her growth and share some aspect of what she had learned through her Pathway journey. Jan took us on a well constructed journey with a focus on her learnings around becoming a “Podcast” expert and the work involved in preparing an hour long presentation for the recent District Conference.
Next up we heard Roz introducing Joyleen whose objective revolved around Storytelling. Roz told us Joyleen also had two personal objective - effective use of the floor and her speech rate. Jayleen's speech, titled Culural Diveristy, took us on a journey through her mothers early life and schooling. Some of the practices employed by the education system in the 1940’s seemed barbaric by today standards. Her story include “covert racism” she still endures – some from her workplace and “unexpected sources”. Disconcerting and disappointing to hear. Congratulations to Joyleen on bringing it to the fore.
Supper was a welcome break – on time!
Back into the second half of the meeting Roz (filling in for our original Table Topics evaluator who was a last minute apology) gave an enthusiastic and animated review of Tony's theme and each speakers presentation. Well constructed with recommendations where appropriate. Each TT speaker gave such wonderful presentations, it was difficult for her to find recommendations in many cases – and rightly so in the writers opinion!
A great evaluation of Jan's speech by Ian who complimented Jan on successfully completing her assignment and completing her Visionary Communication Pathway. Jan has this welcoming smiling face, great diction, and sin posting the elements within her speech. An aspect of the evaluation, was the the structure Ian used in covering commendations and a recommendation.
Our final speaker of the evening was Mondie introduced by Graeme. Mondie gave a presentation with objectives based around presenting a speech topic of his choice in a structured manner. His chosen topic of Music gave us an insight into how music was introduced at a young age (3), and how this unfolded into theory and practice. As music has played a significant part of his life, and that of his family, Mondie set a goal of forming a band. First booking, will be our Toastmaster Xmas windup evening!.
Roz evaluated Joyleen with particular emphasis on the two personal objectives Joyleen had with her presentation and congratulated her on achieving those.
General Business session include a report from Steve on the meeting he and Greg had with up and coming Magpies rugby players to help them with their interview and speaking skills following an invitation to Napier TM from the CEO of HB Rugby.
Our final evaluation of the night came from Graeme on Mondie's presentation. As usual from Graeme many positive recommendations and a recommendation to project his voice. We all feel there are going to be some great speeches emanating from the music theme.
Andy gave us his timekeepers report which showed were on time at the supper break, but somehow we ended up being 15 minutes over time at the end.
Best Table Topics went to Ian, who also struck the quinella with collecting the Best Evaluator trophy. Jan rightly deserved the Best Speaker award, and Roz for Best Contribution, for stepping in and taking on two evaluations. Steve wrapped up the evening with a brief and concise general evaluation.
We wish Roz all the best as she represents our Area in the Division R Table Topics Contest this Saturday. Zoom ID: 873 1891 4543, with the TT Contest commencing at 2.00pm. Go Roz!
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