Weekend Overview
The D71 Autumn conference in Boadicea, Colchester lived up to expectations. Set in beautiful Essex countryside, this was without doubt a very enjoyable weekend. After I checked in the butler brought me right to my accommodation in his little golf buddy. I was already getting the royal treatment. After checking in I remembered I forgot (that's poor English) my costume for the Roman themed fancy dress that evening. But I crafted a plan during the DLT meetings. I was paying attention Luanne, honest I was. A spare white bed-sheet wrapped around me with a piece of stolen greenery, that'll do the trick! Packed with interesting workshops, catching up with old friends, nights of "the craic", fantastic contests this was truly a memorable weekend.
Humorous Speech Contest
Winner Brian Faulkner, with a speech entitled "How to castrate a camel", with a speech entitled...... ah you know the drill! This speech had everything, suspense, drama and above all humour. The 6 finalists had to initially get through the semis on the Friday, so this was indeed a very high standard. Previous winner, Oda Aralepo, was the MC for the final and did an excellent job in warming up the audience and interviewing the contestants.
In 2nd place was Glen Savage while 3rd place went to Chris Boden
Table Topics Contest
"What is a friend" was the topic given at both semi-finals, with the top 3 from each contest progressing to the final. For those of you who got up for the Topics Final a treat was in store. The topic this time was "If you were 10 again what advice would you give yourself" The outright winner was David Jones. This is David's 5th time winning the Table Topics Contest. Michael J Clarke was colourful as ever and did a fantastic job as MC.
In 2nd place was James McGinty while 3rd place went to Peter Connolly
Other Awards
Bishopstown, Co. Cork (Div A) claimed the D71 Club of the Year award while Christina Hession (Div C) scooped the overall Toastmaster of the year. Freddie Daniels also received an award for his outstanding leadership work. Division Governor or the Year went to Anthony Day, while Susie Bloor scooped the Area Governor of the Year award. Club Builder of the Year went to Michael J Clarke while PR Contributor of the year went to Dorothea Stuart. Well done all, take a bow and keep up the good work
The photos and DVD are now available
http://boadicea2013.org.uk/
Written by Michael Collins, District PRO