What’s Happening?
Mackay-based educator Brian O’Neill has reflected on his journey from struggling with public speaking to helping young people develop their own communication skills.
The long-serving teacher and Central Queensland University lecturer shared his experience as part of a Toastmasters initiative marking World Teachers’ Day on 30 October 2026.
The initiative, themed Teachers change lives, recognised Queensland educators whose work highlights the importance of communication, encouragement and confidence in learning.
Why It Matters
Teaching requires educators to communicate clearly, respond to questions and adapt their approach to different learners. For O’Neill, developing those abilities became an important part of his professional growth.
His experience highlights how practical speaking exercises can help teachers manage classroom discussions and presentations without relying entirely on prepared scripts.
The skills he developed also became valuable when guiding students through their own speaking activities.
Local Impact
O’Neill’s connection to Mackay brings a local perspective to the statewide recognition of educators.
His professional experience includes teaching in Townsville and lecturing at Central Queensland University, although the release does not identify a specific Mackay school or campus where he worked.
Key Points
- Early career: O’Neill taught high school students in Townsville, where he initially found speaking without a script difficult.
- Training approach: Toastmasters activities include impromptu speaking, prepared speeches and constructive evaluations.
- Youth development: O’Neill has run Youth Leadership and Speechcraft programmes to help students strengthen their presentation skills.
Zoom In
During his early teaching years, O’Neill struggled with the pressure of speaking in front of a classroom. He began writing out his lessons word for word, including questions he expected students might ask.
“I found that I was freezing in front of a class. I couldn’t speak,” he said.
His difficulties eventually forced him to consider whether he could continue teaching without making a change.
“The best way around it was to write out every word I would say, every question I anticipated that they would ask… and I came to the realisation that I would either have to give up my dream of being a teacher or do something about it”.
Through Toastmasters, O’Neill developed greater confidence in delivering lessons and became less dependent on detailed scripts.
“After practicing at Toastmasters, all I needed was an outline.”
He later coached students in public speaking and debating, finding particular satisfaction in watching their presentations improve.
“It was wonderful seeing the ones who’d done the course, how much more polished they were in those presentations,” he said.
Zoom Out
The World Teachers’ Day initiative also featured educators from Toowoomba, Brisbane and Maryborough, reflecting different experiences of teaching and mentoring across Queensland.
Suzanne Gogolin, Club Growth Director for Toastmasters District 69, said the occasion recognised the contribution teachers make to young people’s development.
“On Teachers’ Day, we celebrate the everyday heroes who change lives by inspiring curiosity and confidence in the next generation of young Australians,” she said.
The organisation has more than 140 clubs in Queensland, with additional clubs across the Northern Territory and the Pacific. Meetings are available in person, online and through hybrid formats.
What To Look For Next?
Toastmasters continues to offer opportunities for educators and community members to develop communication and leadership skills through regular club activities.
Information about local clubs and participation is available through the Toastmasters District 69 website.
