Sunbury College student Maddison attended the 28th National Schools Constitutional Convention in Canberra in March. She tells Zoe Moffatt about this experience and her connection to Sunbury.
Tell us a bit about yourself?
My name is Maddison, I’m 17 years old and in year 12 at Sunbury College. I’ve worked at my local cinema for two years now, and I have a one year old Pitbull named Cyrus who I love taking for walks.
Tell us a bit about the National Schools Constitutional Convention?
The National Schools Constitutional Convention is a major component of the Australian Government Civics and Citizenship Education program run by the National Curriculum Services. It is an opportunity for 116 students from year 11 and 12 students to participate in important discussions that will soon affect us.
What did you do at the convention?
We visited Parliament House where we were able to sit in for Question Time and watch our current government in action. We also visited the Old Parliament House where we were given the chance to converse with our peers to share our opinions on the topic: ‘Is section 128 still a necessary requirement to change such an important document as the Australian Constitution?’ After the deliberations we participated in a mock referendum for that same question in which resulted in a majority ‘no’ vote. We met with the governor-general and his wife at his house and had dinner at the High Court of Australia.
What was a highlight of the experience for you?
The highlight of the experience, for me, was being able to start a conversation with like-minded people who are also passionate about the progression of Australia. The ability to discuss our views and gain insights from a range of others to further our understandings and knowledge was refreshing and a significant positive to my experience in Canberra. Also, when Her Excellency Mrs Linda Hurley sang a song she wrote for our group.
What’s your connection to Sunbury?
I have lived in Sunbury for basically all my life and have made lifelong friends here.
What do you like about where you live?
I like that Sunbury is like the country with a great natural and peaceful environment, but we are still a part of the metro area and can hop on a train that goes straight to the CBD.
What, if anything, would you change about where you live?
I would add more social activities and places for people to go and hang out.
Where is your favourite local place to spend time?
The nook is my favourite local place to spend time as it has a peaceful atmosphere, this is also my dog, Cyrus’, favourite place to go.
Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you?
Even though I work at the cinema I don’t really like popcorn.
