Information for Prospective Members
The aim of the University Club is to provide a
non-threatening environment for everyone who wants to improve
their public speaking and presentation skills. Members
support and encourage one another in this goal.
Club meetings, held weekly, are designed to provide the
opportunity for all those present to practise their skills in a
variety of ways. For example, by giving prepared speeches
according to a tried and tested program which covers:
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volume, rate and pitch of
the voice
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using the right words
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researching for facts
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using props and audio
visual equipment
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understanding your audience
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There are also opportunities to make short, impromptu speeches
- thinking on your feet - a valuable skill for job interviews and
meetings. See information
about meetings for an example of a Club meeting agenda.
Members are given the opportunity to practice chairing a
meeting. Training sessions in meeting procedures are held once or
twice a year. Educational sessions on other aspects of public
speaking are also included in the Program.
Every contribution is evaluated during the meeting so you get
helpful feedback to assist you to progress. You also get an
opportunity to evaluate others and learn how to do this in a
sensitive and positive way.
Toastmasters also has a leadership track for those interested
in leadership. Serving as a club officer is a good way of
practising leadership skills.
On joining, members receive a Communication and Leadership
Manual (CLM) which covers all the aspects of good public speaking
mentioned above. There are many other specialist speaking manuals
to work through after the CLM has been completed.
Progress through the Manuals can be done at your own pace -
there is no pressure to move on faster than you feel is right for
you. However, you will be given encouragement and opportunities
to try out your skills in a supportive atmosphere. Members also
receive a monthly magazine from Toastmasters in the United States
full of interesting tips and articles about public speaking.
Membership Fees
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The one-off joining fee is $34.
- A half-yearly membership fee of $A55.00 ($A27.50 for full-time
students) is paid in March and September each year.
- Join at any time during a half-year period - the fees are pro-rated.
[Information correct as of 21 July 2009 - fees
are subject to change]
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If you are interested in learning more about our Club please
contact one of the members of the Executive or
come along to a meeting. For further information about
Toastmasters, there are links to Toastmasters International and
other Toastmaster sites.
