After three rounds of mediation, a quarter-final and semi-final, Zali, Aurora, Ava, Eliza, Diadem and I had the privilege of competing against Our Lady of Mercy College Parramatta, alongside our amazing extended squad. Having ranked in the top 2 of 32 competing schools across New South Wales, we departed for the city full of nerves and excitement, ready to put all our preparation into practice.

As mediators, Diadem and I were required to have a clear understanding of the mediation process and have planned and scripted statements and segues. Considering our performance determines 70% of the team's overall mark, it was essential that we were well-versed in conflict resolution and management. We were required to facilitate the mediation, ensure we stayed on track and time everything perfectly, down to the very last seconds.

For our party members, preparation took the form of planned opening statements, a deep understanding of their character and the scenario, and thanks to Mr Muller, lots and lots of props. Text, email and phone conversations, images and videos, you name it, we brought it.

As part of the hour-and-a-half mediation, the first ten minutes are spent with the parties being given their confidential facts, new information pertaining to their unique character. These facts, ranging from anxiety disorders to financial hardship, made for a rollercoaster of a mediation. But I’m relieved to say that we were able to handle whatever was thrown at us, dramatic storm outs, fake tears and all.

I’d like to personally thank our amazing team of both Year 9 and 10 girls for all their contributions to the 2023 Mock season, whether it be in the fulfilment of party member or mediator positions, or just simple but much-needed moral support.

Our success was most definitely a joint effort, and above all else, I believe it was our incredible, seamless teamwork and cohesion that got us over the line. The adjudicators, of which there were two, were professionally trained in conflict resolution and mediation. They stressed just how close a decision it was and acknowledged both teams for their maturity and sensibility.

This competition is invaluable in teaching the crucial skills of critical and logical thinking, creativity, active and sustained listening and confidence in communication. The lessons we have learnt throughout this process are transferable to all aspects of life, but are especially relevant when it comes to personal conflicts and problems.

Thank you, Mr Muller, for all your support throughout the season. Your passion for this competition is truly admirable and I know I speak for all the girls when I say that we are so grateful for your guidance and dedication.

Holly B - Year 10