Arrowtown Primary School held its annual speech finals on Tuesday evening, and this reporter was given the special duty of being one of three judges.
The 17 pupils set a high standard for principal Robin Harris and fellow judge Leanne Malcolm.
The children chose topical subjects such as plastic's damaging effect on the environment, the increase in class sizes, sheep rustling and a surprisingly interesting yarn about why duct tape is the world's best invention.
Even Ms Malcolm felt a bit nervous about standing in front of the audience after sitting through the well-prepared, persuasive and humorous speeches.
Winner of the the years 5 and 6 category were Hera Winders with her speech "Did you know my teacher's a dog?".
Runner-up was Loyal Patelesio on "How to be the perfect gentleman" and honourable mention went to Remy Furniss with his speech on "How to be the best secret agent".
The years 7 and 8 entrants spoke like future political party members, and it showed in the results, with judges awarding two extra honourable mentions.
First place went to an energetic Rafe Swan, speaking about the wonders of duct tape. Runner-up was Beatrice Onions, on having an extra year at the school, and honourable mentions to Cameron Parnell, Patrick Sanford and Simon Wallace Blakely.
