Photo Jeff Dawson
Do you feel tongue-tied when speaking in public? Do you tend to ramble and have trouble getting to the point? Whether giving a work or school talk, a toast, or a eulogy, fighting the jitters and negative self-talk can be hard. Fear of speaking in public is common. Feelings range from mild nervousness to panic. Overcoming these fears can be difficult without help.
MullumMagic Toastmasters Club was formed in 2004 by a dedicated group determined that people around Mullumbimby should have the opportunity to learn public speaking. Founder Tony Purdy is well known for starting clubs all over the world. Over the club’s 22-year history, hundreds of people have benefited from developing speaking and leadership skills. Previous members have gone on to facilitate workshops, create documentaries, host radio programs, and deliver dissertations.
Meeting your challenges
Dale panicked and froze during a presentation at work. Unable to speak, she fled the room. Someone later suggested to her, ‘Why don’t you join Toastmasters?’ Dale says it helped her, when she joined the MullumMagic Toastmasters Club.
‘The warm, friendly people at MullumMagic encouraged me. I wasn’t forced to speak unless I wanted to. Now I am happy to speak,’ she said.
Neil has been a member for 19 years. He has overcome his speaking challenges. Now he continues with the club to support newer members to overcome their fear of speaking.
‘I’ve witnessed nervous new members excel and become effective speakers in the safe, supportive, and non-judgemental environment of our club,’ said Neil.
Join up and build your confidence
MullumMagic Toastmasters Club believes in helping people to achieve their own speaking goals in a safe, secure, and encouraging way. Come and see the club in action. Guests are welcome to join in on the second and fourth Thursday of each month from 6.30pm to 8.30pm at the Presbyterian Church, 104 Stuart Street, Mullumbimby. The next meeting is on 9 April. For information, contact Neil Amber on 0415 271 761.
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