English-Speaking Union NSW

Tag: Events

  • 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.

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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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  • 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

  • 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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