Batemans Bay Toastmasters Club newest member Barbara Biddle presented her first speech at a club meeting recently. Titled “It’s Me!” featured her life from Primary School in Apollo Bay Victoria to her present home in the Batemans Bay district. Leaving Apollo Bay, a small coastal tourist town of 500 people, and heading to Melbourne to begin University studies was an adventure and a challenge. After 4 years of fun and study Barbara was offered a 6 month contract to teach in the ACT, where she then lived most of her life.
Barbara enjoys travelling and has visited many different countries around the world. “There are still many places I wish to visit so my bucket list is still pretty full,” she says.
Singing has been an integral part of her life for many years. “One of my greatest joys in life is singing. It has given me the confidence to perform in choirs at festivals and concerts in Canberra, Wollongong, Sydney, Adelaide, NSW and Queensland.”
“I’ve travelled to Italy and performed in festivals, and seen the community choir of Soriano nel Cimino, which is integral to our performances.” Barbara expressively adds: “Singing develops self-confidence, has produced my own feel good endorphins and achieves brain development.”
Barbara was asked why she chose to settle in our Batemans Bay district in November 2016, and the reasons she joined Batemans Bay Toastmasters?
“I’ve been travelling to this lovely area for many years. I love the relaxed lifestyle, the landscape beauty, and the natural peace of the forests and ocean. Every time I drive along Beach Road and see the yachts and boats on the bay, the sculpture, and people on their daily walks, I just relax. I’m enjoying spending time with the friendly and interesting people I meet, walking my dog on the beach, and contributing to the dedicated team of volunteer bushfire fighters at the local rural fire service.”
“A friend invited me to Batemans Bay Toastmasters where I’ve met a diverse group of people and listened to speeches of stimulating topics. Toastmasters is giving me the opportunity to gain greater confidence, and to practise and improve my speaking skills, while adding more variety to my life. The club is very supportive and constructive. I have made new friends and I’m having fun!”
Above: Barbara (right) is presented with her first Toastmasters manual by VP Membership Amanda Annabel.
Batemans Bay Toastmasters provides members with a constructive practical development programme towards advanced communication methods. These methods lead members to articulate improved verbal coherence in life. Over time members evolve as a more mature and confident communicative speaker.
Batemans Bay Toastmasters Club meets every 1st and 3nd Tuesday of the month at the Soldiers Club. Visitors are welcome.
For more information on membership visit the Batemans Bay Toastmasters Website: www.bbtoastmasters.org.au
Alternatively please contact Noal 0407451331 or Amanda 0414905993 for more information.
