Congratulations to our Mock Trial teams for their Round 2 double victory on Thursday 7 May at the Supreme Court versus Rossmoyne Senior High School.
The criminal case involved an allegation of removing ‘guano’ from the roof of a car and throwing it away. Was it the actions of a gangster (the accused was called Al Caponi) with no regard for the law, or was he an innocent businessman pinged by zealous police who were out to catch him by any means, even by using an archaic law? Was there even any guano present? It was a case of circumstantial evidence, so it came down to what the witnesses saw, and as usual all the witnesses had conflicting views. Our witnesses Emma Dean, Hannah Pollitt, Zoe Gitonga and Holly Morin knew their statements inside out and stood up to cross-examination well and in character. Our barristers answered many questions from the judges and persisted with their cross-examination line of questioning to make their points. All team members played their part and contributed, and the reserves were also part of the team preparations over the past two and a half weeks, a very short period.
‘The Dennis Denutoes’ took out the opposing Year 12 team with an impressive 120 to 99, a Chisholm record margin. Jayden Pham started off with a confident Opening, and Eleni Chapman was respectfully determined in her cross and followed our Coach’s motto ‘Never give an inch’. ‘Themis’, with four students in the team of six competing for the first time, beat Rossmoyne’s Team 2, scoring 116 to 111 points. Special mention to Emily Travis who responded to the judge’s multiple questions throughout her Closing with calm and poise.
Thank you to our Coach Hon John McKechnie KC AO for his expertise and calm guidance. To perform in such a high standard contest with such good opponents was a great opportunity for our students. Thank you also to the supporters who came along to watch, including Miss Hynes.
Round 3 which is the last of the open rounds will be held later this term.
We are very proud of you all.
Ms Clark and Mr Dhue
Humanities Teachers
