CHENNAI : Chennai's school students now have an opportunity to win a trip to South Australia.

Students have been invited to participate in an essay competition being held jointly by that country and the Rotary Club of Madras. The title of the essay contest is `Why is South Australia a brilliant blend?'

The Premier of South Australia, Mike Rann, who will visit Chennai October-end, will announce the winner. The prize is a trip for two by economy class to South Australia for a week. A visit to Kangaroo Island and to the universities there is part of the package.

Jane Lomax Smith, South Australian Minister for Education and Tourism, announced the contest on Tuesday at a meeting sponsored by the Rotary Club. Eight schools also participated in the meeting that included a session with cricketer-turned coach Darren Lehmann.

She described the southern part of Australia as "brilliant blend" with vineyards, mountains and beaches.

"Adelaide is the gateway to the great Australian outback just as Chennai is the gateway to south India," she said. "The World Police and Fire Games will be a perfect opportunity for Indian competitors to take a South Australian holiday."

The next edition will be held in 2007 in Adelaide. In 2005, 41competitors represented India.

"South Australia is for the adventure tourist. People come to Adelaide on their second or third trip to Australia. South Australia will also be showcased to Indian audiences in the Bollywood movie Love Story 2050. The State government is committed to developing and building on its relationships in India," she said. Mr. Lehmann, ambassador for the State, said: "It is a great place to do business. I would like to see as many people as possible come to see just what a brilliant blend we have to offer."

Cricket courses

He spoke about courses offered to Indian students at the Cricket Academy in Adelaide Oval. His speech and the Q &A session later elicited much laughter and light-hearted banter.

A student asked for his opinion on some of the cricket controversies involving his country. Another member asked who was the second best cricketer. The first was obvious.

Mr. Lehmann said, "Darren Lehmann, I would hope." A student quipped "Tendulkar." Mr. Lehmann said, "Maybe Sachin Tendulkar" and the audience laughed heartily.

Someone asked who he thought would win the next World Cup and the Ashes. Without hesitation he offered: "Australia." There was more laughter.

© Copyright 2000 - 2009 The Hindu