High School students in Years 10 to 12 throughout New England are being invited to enter the prestigious Richard Baker Senate Essay Prize.

The Nationals Duty Senator for New England John Williams said The Richard Baker Senate Essay Prize is named in honour of the first President of the Australian Senate, and one student from each State or Territory will win $250 for themselves and $250 for their school’s library.

“This month marks 40 years since the Senate committee system was established, and the topic for this year’s competition is ‘How have committees contributed to the Senate’s accountability function?’

“It is open to students in years 10 to 12, and it was my honour last year to present the New South Wales prize to Emma Greenland of Calrossy Anglican School.

There is no reason why another student in New England cannot win this year’s prize.

I have advised secondary schools of the competition, and I encourage students to take up the challenge and prepare their essay of between 500 to 750 words before the closing date of the 30^th of August”, Senator Williams said.

Further information can be found at www.aph.gov.au/senate