Bulahdelah Central School Year 12 student Darcy Harris recently attended the NSW Schools Constitutional Convention held at Parliament House in Sydney.

The topic for the convention was Referendums and Plebiscites with the program consisting of a keynote speaker, discussions and debates facilitated by Parliamentary Officers.

Darcy said it was a great experience exploring constitutional issues with 100 like-minded youth from all over NSW.

“It was very interesting to learn about our past Referendums and Plebiscites, particularly the 1981 Tasmanian Power Referendum affecting the Gordon River and the Communist Referendum in 1969,” he said.

“The highlight of the program was definitely listening to so many genuine and interested young people passionate about our political system and the welfare of the country.”

There have been 44 referendums in Australia since Federation and only eight of those have been carried.

As part of the selection process for the convention, students were required to write an essay explaining the impact of the referendums on Australian society.

Darcy told News Of The Area he had confidence in the next generation of Australian political leaders.

“I learnt so much about our political system and it was refreshing to see so many inspired young people,” he said.

With an interest in Human Rights and environmental issues, Darcy is hoping his passions will lead to a political career.

Darcy was the only student delegate from the Myall Lakes Electorate and met with Myall Lakes MP Stephen Bromhead during the Convention.

By Daniel SAHYOUN