On the 7th of August the semi-final and final of Dunedin Schools Debating was held at Otago Boys' High School. Two of the four breaking teams were from Columba, and a Columba-Columba final was on the cards.

In separate semifinals, both Columba teams affirmed the motion 'This house would not allow religious institutions to provide rehabilitation services for addiction and mental health'. In a close debate, Columba 2 (Georgia Francis, Lara Seaton, Penelope Hare and Jody Syme) lost to OBHS 1, but Columba 1 beat OGHS 1 and progressed. The final was between old rivals, Columba 1 and OBHS 1.

After an unlucky loss to Otago Boys' at Regionals earlier this year, and many debates at the Wednesday night competition, the final was very high-staked. The rivalry was fierce but good natured. 

The moot for the final was 'This house would ban the contacting of uncontacted peoples', such as tribes living in highly isolated areas of South America, Central Africa and New Guinea. Columba was affirming. The quality was excellent, with Abby at first speaker arguing that it is morally indefensible to repeat the crimes of our colonising ancestors, and that harm to the culture, well-being and lives of the uncontacted peoples are enormous. Otago Boys' argued that we might learn from this past, and we can bring the fruits of modern society to less fortunate communities.

Abby Bowmar, Khaleeda Jaafar and Isobel Fraser enjoyed one of their favourite debates of the year, and were supported by many Columba students and family members in the audience. Following eight very passionate and entertaining speeches, the result was announced: Columba College had won Dunedin Schools Debating for the third year in a row. 

As well as securing the win, Columba also gained five out of the ten top speaker awards and a Best Style award. Meanwhile, Columba's debating clubs continue to thrive, with dozens of students from years 7 to 13 getting involved every week.

Senior DSD Winners 2019: Columba 1

2nd ranked speaker: Isobel Fraser

3rd ranked speaker: Abby Bowmar

4th ranked speaker: Khaleeda Jaafar

7th ranked speaker: Lara Seaton

6th ranked speaker: Maddy McCane

Best Style: Abby Bowmar