THE art of debating is alive and well in our local primary schools.

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The ‘Great Annual School Debate’ organised by the Rotary Club of Myall Coast, recently pitted debating teams from Bulahdelah Central School up against Tea Gardens Primary School.

“The Dolphin Room at the Tea Gardens Hotel was packed with supporters, Teachers, School Principals, Mums and Dads, brothers and sisters, all applauding their team and the opposition too,” Rotary’s Roger Digby said.

Each team was comprised of four students, the subject of the debate, “Should Australia Introduce a Tax on Foods High in Sugar and Fat.”

Tea Gardens Students were the affirmative team and argued, “Bad fats and sugars lead to obesity, ill-health and even premature deaths.”

“It is a great burden on the health system and very costly for the nation. Food manufacturers need to get their customers addicted to their products and high sugar and fat content helps them do this.”

“Taxing these products will discourage consumption and reduce their prevalence.”

Bulahdelah pupils were the Opposition taking the line, “Price will not have the desired effect.”

“People addicted to these foods will just pay more for them.”

“Spend more money on educating people about the benefits of healthy food and the dangers of foods high on sugar and fat.”

“Maybe subsidise healthy food choices such as fresh fruit.”

“So we say “No dice to upping the price!”

It was a tough battle, but in the end Adjudicator Betty Reid, pronounced Tea Gardens Primary the winner by a whisker.

At the end of the day though, all agreed the both teams were worthy opponents.

By: Margie TIERNEY