IPSWICH public speaker and community leader Ben McCormick has emerged as the outstanding talent at the Toastmasters International District 69 Conference, winning first place in the prestigious Evaluation competition.
The event brought together public speaking hopefuls from across Queensland, the Northern Territory, Fiji and Papua New Guinea.
Mr McCormick’s articulate and insightful evaluation of Jessica Dau’s speech, Lights, Lights & Lights, saw him rise above a strong field of contestants to claim the top spot in the category.
His victory not only showcases Ipswich’s presence on the public speaking stage but also highlights his ongoing contribution to communication and leadership development across the region.
A well-known figure in the local non-profit scene, Mr McCormick has served numerous Ipswich-based community clubs and was elected to the Toastmasters International Board of Directors in 2022, representing Australasia and parts of the Pacific in a two-year term that ends this year.
Themed Bright Lights, Big Ideas, the conference welcomed 165 members and guests, offering a packed program of speech contests, leadership workshops and networking events.
District 69 Club Growth Director Alex Smith praised Mr McCormick’s performance and the success of the event.
“We’re proud to see someone like Ben – who has already given so much back to the community – be recognised on this stage.”.
Mr McCormick’s win puts him on a promising path toward the Toastmasters World Championship of Public Speaking, which will be held this August in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, as part of the 2025 Toastmasters International Convention.
With over 140 active Toastmasters clubs across Queensland – from Brisbane and Toowoomba to Cairns, Mackay and Ipswich – Mr Smith says there’s never been a better time to get involved.
“Communication skills are more important than ever.”
