South Perth Public Speaking Club | Rostrum Club 15
Rostrum Club 15 is a friendly South Perth public speaking club based at Manning Library. We help beginners and experienced speakers build confidence through regular practice, structured activities and supportive feedback. You’ll build confidence to speak clearly in meetings, presentations, interviews and everyday conversations.
Tuesdays at 6:15pm · Manning Library · Visitors welcome
Come along and watch a meeting first. There is no pressure to speak.
Build confidence through practice
Speaking confidently is a skill you can learn
You may feel nervous giving a presentation, struggle to organise your thoughts when put on the spot, or find it difficult to speak up in a group.
You are not alone.
At Rostrum Club 15, you develop confidence by practising in a welcoming environment with people who understand what it feels like to be nervous. Meetings are structured, practical and designed to help you improve one step at a time.
You do not need previous speaking experience. You do not need to prepare anything for your first visit. Simply come along, meet the group and see how a meeting works.
What you can develop
Communication skills for work, life and the community
Through regular participation, you can learn to:
- Organise your thoughts and express ideas clearly
- Speak with greater confidence in meetings and group discussions
- Deliver engaging presentations and prepared speeches
- Respond more comfortably when asked to speak without preparation
- Improve your voice, body language and audience connection
- Chair meetings and guide discussions effectively
- Give and receive constructive feedback
- Communicate more persuasively in professional and social situations
What happens at a meeting?
Practical speaking experience in a supportive club
Each meeting follows a structured agenda and includes a variety of activities. Depending on the program, members may deliver prepared speeches, practise short speaking exercises, introduce speakers, chair part of the meeting or take part in activities that develop confidence and quick thinking.
At the end of the meeting, speakers receive constructive feedback from an accredited Rostrum coach. The feedback is specific, respectful and focused on helping each person continue improving.
Some members begin with very little confidence. Others are already comfortable speaking but want to become clearer, more engaging or more persuasive. Everyone works from their own starting point.
New to public speaking?
You can take the first step without giving a speech
Visiting a Rostrum meeting does not mean you will be called unexpectedly to the front of the room.
You are welcome to:
- Sit in and observe
- Meet some of the members
- See the meeting format
- Ask questions afterwards
- Attend more than once before deciding whether to join
Visit South Perth Rostrum Club 15
When: Tuesdays at 6:15pm
Arrival: Around 6:10pm is recommended
Where: Manning Library Function Room
Address: 2 Conochie Crescent, Manning WA 6152
Annual Rostrum subscription: $150
Weekly meeting cost for members: $5
Visitors: Free to attend and observe
Contact:
Ryan Whiddett
0405 542 092
ryanwhiddett@rostrumwa.com.au
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to speak during my first meeting?
No. Visitors are welcome to observe, meet the members and see how the club works. You will not be pressured to participate.
Is Rostrum suitable for complete beginners?
Yes. Many people join because they feel nervous speaking in front of others or want to become more comfortable expressing their ideas. Activities develop progressively, allowing you to build your skills over time.
Is Rostrum a public speaking course?
Rostrum is a club rather than a short classroom course. Members improve through regular practice, structured activities and personalised feedback.
Can Rostrum help me at work?
The skills practised at Rostrum can help with meetings, presentations, interviews, leadership conversations and explaining ideas clearly.
What should I bring to my first meeting?
Nothing needs to be prepared. Arrive about ten minutes early, introduce yourself and enjoy the meeting.
How much does it cost to visit?
There is no charge to visit and observe a meeting. Membership currently includes a $150 annual Rostrum subscription and a $5 weekly Club 15 meeting cost.
Take the first step towards speaking with confidence
You do not need to wait until you feel confident enough to attend. Building that confidence is the reason the club is here.
Come along to a Tuesday meeting, observe the program and decide whether Club 15 feels right for you.