The National Bank RSA Cyril Bassett VC Speech Competition

2010 Competition

Watch the 2010 Winner's speech

The Winner of the 2010 competition was Meaghan Li of Macleans College Auckland whose speech was based on the Unknown Warrior, a New Zealand serviceman whose remains were repatriated from the Caterpillar Valley Cemetery on the Somme in France for burial in a new tomb at the National War Memorial in Wellington.

She said she was "speechless" at winning the competition and also paid tribute to her fellow competitors.

"I am just stoked. It's extremely humbling, and was not expected. It is an absolute honour considering those who spoke today. I'm pleased and proud to be representing New Zealand on this trip."

Veteran’s Affairs Minister Judith Collins announced Meaghan had won after the eight regional finalists delivered their speeches. 

Meaghan will travel to Gallipoli as an RSA representative on the official New Zealand delegation to Turkey for the 95th Commemoration of the Anzac Landings at Gallipoli.

The National Bank RSA Cyril Bassett VC Speech Competition is a partnership between the RSA and The National Bank, aimed at promoting among young people a deeper understanding and appreciation of the sacrifices made by those who have served New Zealand in wars and armed conflicts overseas.

It is also a tribute to Cyril Bassett, VC, (1892-1983) who was the only New Zealander at Gallipoli to be awarded the Victoria Cross, and who worked his entire career at The National Bank. Members of his old regiment, the 1st New Zealand Signal Regiment, also attended the national final.

RSA president Robin Klitscher was "dumbstruck" with the talent and said that Meaghan’s speech about the Unknown Warrior was excellent, and brought home how connected young people are to our Anzac Heritage.

"It will be a great pleasure to accompany Meaghan, an outstanding young New Zealander, to Gallipoli and I know that she will appreciate the significance of being there this Anzac Day."

ANZ New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Jenny Fagg said the standard of speeches was impressive and a credit to the students and to their schools.

"Congratulations to Meaghan and to all the talented young finalists from around New Zealand who gave us speeches of such high calibre. The National Bank is immensely proud to be part of this competition in honour of Cyril Bassett VC who was one of hundreds of National Bank staff who served New Zealand overseas, many paying the ultimate sacrifice."

About the Competition
The National Bank RSA Cyril Bassett VC Speech Competition is a partnership between the RSA and The National Bank, aimed at promoting among young people a deeper understanding and appreciation of the sacrifices made by those who have served New Zealand in wars and armed conflicts overseas.

The competition is a national competition for year 12 and 13 secondary school students. Regional Finals are held in eight regions with a national final to decide the overall winner. Entries open in February, Regional Finals are held in March and the National Final is held prior to Anzac Day.

The competition is a tribute to Cyril Bassett, VC, (1892-1983) who was the only New Zealander at Gallipoli to be awarded the Victoria Cross, and who worked his entire career at The National Bank.

Speech subject: ‘New Zealanders at War’
This subject matter embraces New Zealanders who served in the South Africa War, World War One, World War Two, the occupation force in Japan, the Korean War, operations in Malaya and Borneo, Vietnam War, Afghanistan, and numerous Peacekeeping operations such as East Timor and the Middle East.

Speechmakers may choose a particular war/operation or to cover them collectively; or they may choose to profile a servicemen from the past or a living veteran; or an aspect of the commemoration of war (Anzac Day/war memorials).

Eligibility: Year 12 and 13 students who are able to travel independently to Regional and National competitions, and are New Zealand citizens.

Speech duration: 6–8 minutes

Preparation and delivery: Students must prepare and deliver his/her own speech. Delivery may not include the use of projection or other imaging or the use of a lectern. See Judging Criteria and Terms and Conditions for more detail.

2010 Competition prizes:
Each Regional Winner received $1,000 prize money in a National Bank account, a framed Certificate and Youth membership to the RSA. The Regional Winner’s school also received $1,000 and a military history book for their school library.

The National Winner received a trip to Gallipoli as a guest of the RNZRSA on the official New Zealand delegation for the 95th ANZAC Commemorations; a further $1,000 Travel Fund, a laptop and digital camera to record their experience; and a winner’s trophy.  

2010 Terms and Conditions