On Saturday 27 September, Concordia College’s Year 10 Debating Team competed in the Year 10 Debating SA grand final at Parliament House. After two unanimous victories in the quarterfinal and semifinal rounds, the team was thrilled to advance to the grand final—their second appearance a debating grand final.

The topic was “That the decline in the global population is a cause for concern", and Concordia argued the negative side. Rebecca 10VNAR, Keziah 10RCRO, and Paige 10BWHA delivered their speeches with confidence and conviction, while Oliver 10BWHA and Sophie 10JDIV supported the team as timekeeper and reserve speaker respectively. Despite presenting a strong and well-reasoned case, the team was narrowly defeated in a split 4–1 decision to the affirmative team from Norwood International High School.

We also congratulate Lilah 9ALAM, who was awarded Best Speaker in the Year 9 division—an outstanding achievement. This award recognises the highest-scoring student across all rounds of the competition and reflects Lilah’s exceptional skill and dedication.

The Governor of South Australia, Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC, will present medals to the Year 10 team and Lilah at Government House on Wednesday, 29 October 2025.

Juliana Lanzilli
Debating Coach