• RCS Speech and Leadership Contest
Held annually and open to all youth of Years 9 – 12 in Western Australia. Our Contest was initially created as a Public Speaking Contest in June 1968 and has since been broadened to include a leadership component.
The Contest is in two divisions, Junior Division Yrs 9 – 10 and Senior Division Yrs 11 – 12. The Finals consist of two Sections: Speech and Leadership, both sections of this extraordinarily demanding contest are judged by professional panels: educators for the speech and defence force officers for the leadership.
We strive to make our Contest not only unsurpassed in Western Australia, but also of real value to all those who participate, preparing them for leadership in later life. Our records of previous contestants and winners, suggests that we might take some pride in our efforts so far. Further information on the Contest is under the ‘Youth’ tab.
• Commonwealth Day Multi-Faith Observance
Commenced in 1980 and held in collaboration with St George’s Cathedral, Perth. This ceremony is closely modelled upon that which is held annually in Westminster Abbey, and is attended by our most salient citizens and representatives of metropolitan high schools from years 11 and 12. The Commonwealth Day Message from Her Majesty, The Queen, is read by the Governor of Western Australia and the Secretary-General’s message is read by the Young Fellows of the RCS. Members of prominent faiths practised in Western Australia are invited to attend and offer prayers and readings in the native language associated with each respective faith.
• Commonwealth Day Youth Harmony Program
An annual event since March 1965, held in the Government House Ballroom, Perth, attended by imminent Western Australian citizens and representatives from metropolitan schools. Conducted entirely by the Young Fellows of the RCS, the program incorporates an ‘Acknowledgement to Country’ by students of the Moorditj Noongar Community College, a reading of Her Majesty the Queen’s Commonwealth Day message, a parade of Commonwealth Flags, a message from the Youth of Western Australia to Her Majesty and a selection of dance, songs and music from school bands and a choir. The Youth Program provides an opportunity for young people associated with the Society to gain experience participating in and hosting an event of this nature.
