The annual Japanese speech contest “Tokimeki Cup” was held at Manly Council Chambers on Thursday 23rd June. Students from Mackellar Girls Campus, St Pauls College and Stella Maris College participated in the contest. The students were judged by a panel on their ability to read Japanese script, Japanese pronunciation, fluency and expression. Four Year 9 students from Stella Maris entered into the contest: Lara B, Ivana C, Jesse N, and Victoria Y. These four Stella students were the youngest contestants; however, they handled pressure well and audiences were very impressed by their performance. Jesse N came in third place overall at the contest and Lara B received ‘The Joan Thorburn Inspirational Achievement Award’. Congratulations girls! Gambari mashita. Omedetō!