Julian Leeser (Berowra, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

  As parliamentarians, public speaking is part of our profession, so it was great to get a few pointers on my recent visits to the Toastmasters clubs at Berowra and Elouera in my electorate. Toastmasters aims to develop confident public speakers through a supportive learning environment. These two clubs in my electorate attract a wide variety of people, from seasoned speakers to those looking to face their fears. The Toastmasters experience has the ability to change lives, as is exemplified by the Berowra president, Peter Sheehan, who says it took him 30 years to develop the courage to join Toastmasters. Thanks to an environment that promotes patience, practice and positivity, Peter saw an immediate benefit. The impact of his lifelong stutter dramatically lessened, and, after being nurtured as a newcomer, he's now helping others himself. Aptly assisted by fellow members Jackie Beattie, Jason Smith and Elissa Macdonald, Peter presides over a club creating confidence where it once may have been lacking. It was terrific to see firsthand how welcoming they were to new member Erin McAlister as she proudly delivered her first speech. The excellent Elouera club in Thornleigh this year celebrates 25 years. In December, I was warmly welcomed to the club by Mary Wang and her team, including Sam Wong, Ramani Warusevitaneamani and Feng Cai, who invited me to share how becoming a parliamentarian has changed my speaking style.

During my time with both clubs I found myself in an environment which emphasised learning in a fun and relaxed manner. Their not-for-profit work seeks to create confident communities, particularly among out multicultural communities. I congratulate both clubs.