A chance to stand on historic ground

For release: 2 February 2016

Students go head to head for a chance to stand on historic ground

Registrations are now open for the 2016 ANZ RSA Cyril Bassett VC Speech Competition, in which Year 12 and 13 students from across the country will compete for the chance to attend ANZAC commemorations in Gallipoli.

The annual competition, now in its sixth year, is a partnership between ANZ and the RSA as a tribute to Cyril Bassett, VC (1892 – 1983), the only New Zealander to be awarded the Victoria Cross in Gallipoli and who worked for ANZ group for his entire career.

“We’re excited to be opening this competition to talented students for another year,” says RNZRSA Chief Executive David Moger.

“The standard of speeches has always been exceptionally high and the previous years’ finalists have showcased some of New Zealand’s most gifted young orators. They really are the perfect ambassadors to represent New Zealand at Gallipoli and we are proud to offer them this opportunity.”

The competition aims to build understanding and appreciation among young New Zealanders for the sacrifice made by New Zealand servicemen and women.

“We are always so impressed by the passion and life given to the stories of our ANZAC heroes through the student’s speeches,” Mr Moger said.

The six to eight minute speeches focus on ‘New Zealanders in World War I’, with topics ranging from individual servicemen or women, to specific war events or operations, or aspects of war commemoration.

Last year, all seven of the regional winners joined the national winner in travelling to Gallipoli thanks to a special ANZ RSA Cyril Bassett VC competition that honoured the centenary of the Gallipoli landings.

ANZ New Zealand’s General Manager Human Resources Felicity Evans said: “The ANZAC legacy is kept alive by all generations honouring the servicemen and women who have come before them. That’s why it’s so great to see such passion in remembrance by these gifted young New Zealanders.

“We at ANZ feel privileged to be involved in something so historically important and we are proud of this partnership.”

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