By Toastmasters Area 03 Director Matthew Derbridge

Toastmasters is a safe, welcoming place to develop communication and leadership skills. It is a not-for-profit organisation that provides opportunities for our members to grow and learn new skills. Every year Toastmasters has contests that bring members from other clubs together to showcase their public speaking skill.

Every March, the Southern Division Areas of Toastmasters (an area from Nowra to Cronulla) come together to watch the best of the best speakers compete.

On March 22, the Southern Division Contest will be held at Woonona-Bulli RSL. The contest is hosted by Northern Illawarra, serving members from Menai to as far as Wollongong.

Northern Illawarra Toastmasters meet every 1st and 3rd Tuesday night of the month at Woonona–Bulli RSL. This is a chance for members to take notes, observe and support their club representatives.

Winners of the four contests will represent the Southern Division in the District 70 Contest held during the Annual Conference in May. Visitors are welcome to come along.

To find out more about a club near you, go to www.toastmasters.org/find-a-club