Narooma High School student Geena Thomas has been named Quota Student of the Year.
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The Year 11 student received a trophy and a $250 prize and now advances to the Region 14 Quota International finals, to be held in Narooma on Saturday, August 17.
The judges had a difficult time choosing between the three contestants whose scores out of 100 all came within 4.5 points of each other.
Damia O'Loughlin, of Carroll College, and Jade Vlatkovic, of Narooma High School, both excelled, with Damia declared the runner-up.
The quest allows students to practise public-speaking and interpersonal skills.
After being interviewed, the students were scored on their general knowledge, citizenship contributions and leadership potential.
The students spoke on a prepared topic for four minutes, followed by a one-minute ad lib speech.
Last year's winner Findlay Walker was guest speaker.
She told the audience how the quest had boosted her overall confidence, adding that it was the participation, not the winning, that was most beneficial.
The difficult task of judging the contest was expertly handled by Mark King, Cherie Cunninghame and Rosemary Towers.
Mark King gave the judges' remarks, noting that each candidate had different strengths.
"Having a good general knowledge can make a big difference during the interview process," he said.
Jean Lloyd, deputy chairperson of the Region 14 Student of the Year Quest, congratulated the contestants on their performance.
Quota president Chris Ryder presented contestants with participation gifts and certificates.
Quota thanked Club Narooma and Georgie's Fine Jewellery for their help.