The Armidale Regional Council chambers was an ideal backdrop for students from across the New England region to debate and explore the big questions around the health of our planet.  

Image - Students from O'Connor Catholic College celebrate their accomplishments at Speaking for the Planet. 

Sara Schmude, Landcare Coordinator with Southern New England Landcare, who supports the event each year said, "This year's theme was 'The air that we breathe' and was hosted by Armidale Regional Council and the Armidale Dioceses Catholic Schools Office."

"We had record number of students attended from as far afield as Moree, Inverell, Tamworth, Armidale and Guyra," she said.

"Feedback from the students spoke of a need to have a voice, to be informed, to rise to challenges and speak the truth," said Sara.

"You learn so much and make new friends, you can get your voice out and say your view as a kid," Student from McCarthy Catholic College, Tamworth.

"It's an inspirational experience that will challenge you to make a difference," Student from Holy Trinity, Inverell.

"It's character building while learning about the world we live in," Student from Guyra Central School.

"Speaking for the Planet is a day of advocating for the change you want to see in the world", Sara said.

Speaking for the Planet is a public speaking, drama, art and writing competition that creates opportunities for students to express their ideas and inspire the thoughts, emotions and actions of their audience.

It began in 2013 and has been hosted in Armidale the last 4 years with Southern New England Landcare proudly supporting this important program for our regions youth.