English-Speaking Union NSW

News

  • An Afternoon with David Hunt

    An Afternoon with David Hunt

    Author of Girt: The Unauthorised History of Australia

    Thursday, 20 Nov, 12:30pm – 3:30pm
    Royal Automobile Club of Australia
    Sydney NSW, Australia

    The English-Speaking Union (NSW) invites you to a luncheon with to join us for an engaging and uproariously entertaining lunch event with acclaimed historian, satirist and broadcaster David Hunt, best known as the author of the award-winning Girt trilogy — Girt, True Girt and Girt Nation.

    David’s trademark blend of meticulous research and irreverent humour has redefined how Australians see their own history — uncovering the rogues, rebels and ridiculous events that shaped the nation. His work has won the Indie Award for Non-Fiction, been shortlisted for the NSW Premier’s Literary Awards, and spawned a cult following among readers who like their history clever, candid and a little bit cheeky.

    A former lawyer turned writer, David is also a popular speaker, television presenter, and the creator of several podcasts exploring the quirks of Australian identity.

    Get Tickets
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  • Supporting the Future of Public Speaking in NSW

    Supporting the Future of Public Speaking in NSW

    The English-Speaking Union NSW is honoured to acknowledge the generosity of Mr Francis Farmakidis and his firm, Vobis Lawyers, whose recent donation will support the Union’s work in New South Wales.

    This contribution will be directed towards the Plain English Speaking Award (PESA), a flagship initiative that encourages young people to develop confidence, clarity, and conviction in their public speaking. The Award has a proud tradition of fostering the next generation of communicators, and the support of Frances and Vobis Lawyers ensures its continued success.

    The English-Speaking Union NSW is deeply grateful for this partnership. It is through the commitment of members and friends such as Mr Farmakidis that we are able to uphold the mission of the ESU: promoting international understanding and the use of English as a means of communication and fellowship.

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  • A Triumph of Eloquence: Australia’s 2025 Plain English Speaking Award National Final

    A Triumph of Eloquence: Australia’s 2025 Plain English Speaking Award National Final

    The English language can be complex and beautiful, but the true mark of a great speaker is the ability to communicate with clarity and sincerity. This was on full display this year at the 2025 Plain English Speaking Award (PESA) National Final.

    Held virtually, the competition brought together four of Australia’s most promising young orators: Saxon Miller (QLD), Samantha Lee (WA), Fadzai Bako (VIC), and the eventual champion, Olivia (VIC). It was a testament to their dedication and passion that, even through the digital medium of Zoom, their compelling arguments and personal narratives had such a profound impact. Each prepared speech was a masterful exercise in reasoned thought, tackling subjects of contemporary import with intellectual rigour and genuine passion.

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  • The Power of Public Speaking: Why Mastering It Is Essential

    The Power of Public Speaking: Why Mastering It Is Essential

    In today’s fast-paced world, public speaking is an essential skill that extends far beyond the podium. Whether you are a high school student presenting a project, an executive pitching a business idea, or someone advocating for a cause, the ability to speak confidently and effectively in front of an audience can set you apart. Public speaking isn’t just about delivering words; it’s about communicating ideas, engaging audiences, and inspiring action.

    In this post, we’ll explore the importance of mastering public speaking, highlighting how it can boost your career, enhance personal growth, and improve your ability to influence others. From high school classrooms to executive boardrooms, the ability to articulate ideas with confidence is a game-changer.

    1. Public Speaking Builds Confidence

    One of the most significant benefits of mastering public speaking is the confidence it instils. Speaking in front of an audience, no matter the size, requires courage. Over time, as you practice and improve, you naturally become more comfortable with expressing your ideas. This increase in confidence doesn’t just stay on the stage—it permeates every aspect of your life.

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  • Sir Evelyn Wrench: Championing Dialogue and Understanding Through the English-Speaking Union

    Sir Evelyn Wrench: Championing Dialogue and Understanding Through the English-Speaking Union

    Across the vast tapestry of history, few figures have woven the threads of international understanding with such dedication and vision as Sir Evelyn Wrench. His life, spanning from 1882 to 1966, was an extraordinary tapestry of journalism, activism, and unwavering belief in the power of communication to bridge cultural divides. Today, we look into the vibrant life and legacy of this remarkable man, particularly focusing on his pivotal role in founding the English-Speaking Union (ESU), a vibrant organisation that continues to foster the bonds of friendship and understanding between English-speaking nations.

    Early Years and Seeds of Internationalism

    Wrench’s life began in Ireland, where he was born into a family steeped in public service and a belief in the importance of global harmony. His mother, a spirited advocate for women’s suffrage, and his father, an Irish Land Commissioner, instilled in him a deep appreciation for cultural exchange and social justice. This early exposure to diverse perspectives set the stage for Wrench’s lifelong dedication to building bridges rather than walls.

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  • 2022 Finals NSW Plain English Speaking Award

    2022 Finals NSW Plain English Speaking Award

    Please join us for the 2022 Finals NSW Plain English Speaking Award hosted by the NSW Arts Unit.

    There are six 6 speakers that have progressed to the State Final. The final competition will be held on Thursday 23 June at NSW Teachers Federation Conference Centre beginning at 9:30 AM.

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  • AUKUS Allies

    AUKUS Allies

    Former Prime Minister Tony Abbott on ‘AUKUS Allies as the Moscow-Beijing-Tehran Axis Emerges

    English-Speaking Union NSW Branch along with the International Churchill Society and the Australians for Constitutional Monarchy present:

    Special Guest Speaker, the Hon Tony Abbott

    Thursday 5 May
    5:00-7:30 PM
    NSW Parliament House Theatrette

    AUKUS is the trilateral security pact between Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States announced in September 2021. Under the pact, the US and the UK will help Australia to acquire nuclear-powered submarines.

    The pact also includes cooperation on ‘cyber capabilities, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies and additional undersea capabilities’. The pact will focus on military capability, separating it from the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance that also includes New Zealand and Canada.

    The Hon Tony Abbott AC, 28th Prime Minister of Australia

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  • NSW State Final for The Plain English Speaking Award 2022

    NSW State Final for The Plain English Speaking Award 2022

    The final for this award will be held at the NSW Teachers Federation Conference Centre, 37 Reservoir St, Surry Hills NSW 2010.

    For more information on this competition, see the website for The Arts Unit, NSW Department of Education

  • The Premier’s Debating Challenge 2022

    The Premier’s Debating Challenge 2022

    Open to all NSW public schools for years 5 to 12 with the aim of developing the public speaking and reasoning skills of students.

    The final will be held at The Great Hall, Sydney University

    For more information on the competition, see The Arts Unit, NSW Department of Education

  • 800th Anniversary of the Magna Carta

    800th Anniversary of the Magna Carta

    ESU Global Magna Carta Essay Competition – Award Ceremonies for Australian Winners.  The presentation to the Junior Winner, Ella McEvoy from Genazzano College, Kew, took place on Friday 21st August 2015, at ESU House in South Yarra.  Ella was officially presented with her Award by Mr Gareth Hoar, British Consul General. The Senior Winner, Jack Donnelly from Marist College, Ashgrove, Queensland, was presented with his award at ESU House, Milton, by Senator George Brandis in September 2015.

    My Magna Carta Grand Final Dartmouth House

    Dartmouth House has announced the overall winners of the My Magna Carta international creative writing competition, following the grand final on Thursday 15 October 2015. Thirteen finalists from all corners of the globe presented their entries to an invited audience, leaving the judging panel with a very tough decision. Judges and audience members alike were overwhelmed by the quality of each presentation.

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