Auckland Student on way to Gallipoli with speech

Auckland Student on way to Gallipoli after winning The National Bank RSA Cyril Bassett VC Speech Competition

Wellington: Auckland student Meaghan Li (17) of Macleans College, of Manukau today won the national final of The National Bank RSA Cyril Bassett VC Speech Competition

Veteran’s Affairs Minister Judith Collins announced Meaghan had won after the eight regional finalists spent the morning delivering their speeches at the National War Memorial in Wellington.

Meaghan will now travel to Gallipoli as an RSA representative on the official New Zealand delegation to Turkey for the 95th Commemoration of the Anzac Landings at Gallipoli.

She said she was “speechless” at winning the competition and also paid tribute to her fellow competitors.

“I am just stoked. It's extremely humbling, and was not expected. It is an absolute honour considering those who spoke today. I'm pleased and proud to be representing New Zealand on this trip."

The National Bank RSA Cyril Bassett VC Speech Competition is a partnership between the RSA and The National Bank, aimed at promoting among young people a deeper understanding and appreciation of the sacrifices made by those who have served New Zealand in wars and armed conflicts overseas.

It is also a tribute to Cyril Bassett, VC, (1892-1983) who was the only New Zealander at Gallipoli to be awarded the Victoria Cross, and who worked his entire career at The National Bank. Members of his old regiment, the 1st New Zealand Signal Regiment, also attended today’s final.

RSA president Robyn Klitscher was “dumbstruck” with the talent. He said that Meaghan’s speech about the Unknown Warrior was excellent, and brought home how connected young people are to our Anzac Heritage.

“It will be a great pleasure to accompany Meaghan, an outstanding young New Zealander, to Gallipoli and I know that she will appreciate the significance of being there this Anzac Day.”

ANZ New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Jenny Fagg said the standard of speeches was impressive and a credit to the students and to their schools.

“Congratulations to Meaghan and to all the talented young finalists from around New Zealand who gave us speeches of such high calibre. The National Bank is immensely proud to be part of this competition in honour of Cyril Bassett VC who was one of hundreds of National Bank staff who served New Zealand overseas, many paying the ultimate sacrifice.”

The winner will represent the RSA and travel with the official New Zealand delegation to Turkey for the 95th Commemoration of the Anzac Landings at Gallipoli. The winner will also receive an additional $1,000 for travel expenses from The National Bank; a laptop and digital camera to record their experience.

Regional winners of The National Bank RSA Cyril Bassett VC Speech Competition won a National Bank account worth $1000, and youth RSA membership, while their school received $1000 and a military history book.

ENDS

© Scoop Media