So, you’ve been thinking of checking out Miranda Toastmasters, but you’re not quite sure what to expect? We understand the hesitation — walking into any new group can be daunting. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at what actually happens during a typical meeting. Spoiler alert: it’s friendlier, more welcoming, more fun, and much less scary than you might think.
The Basics — When and Where
Our club meets twice a month. The 2nd and 4th Tuesday, and meetings usually run for about two and a half hours. We start on time, run a structured agenda, and give everyone a chance to speak. Members are allocated different roles at each meeting, giving everyone a chance to try different things and learn new skills.
The Agenda: A Snapshot
- Welcome & Introductions
The Sergeant at Arms opens the meeting and reminds everyone of the Toastmaster’s mission, which is to “provide a supportive and positive learning environment where members are empowered to develop communication and leadership skills, resulting in greater self-confidence and personal growth, introduces the theme (often something fun), and sets the tone”.
Then we have an invocation, the loyal and second toast, and formally welcome our guests. - Getting down to business
We have some club business, including reports from committee members. - Table Topics
A fun segment where members, and brave guests, give 60 second impromptu answers to questions Table Topics questions — a great way to practice thinking on your feet. - Prepared Speeches
Members give speeches they’ve prepared in advance as part of their Pathways projects — ranging from personal stories to persuasive talks or inspirational pieces. - Evaluations
Everything at Toastmasters is evaluated and members give encouraging feedback to speakers. It’s specific, kind, and always focused on helping each other improve. - Roles in Action
Every meeting includes members taking on roles like Timer, Ah-Counter (yes, we track filler words!), Parliamentarian and Grammarian. These keep the meeting moving and add a dose of fun. There are a few unfamiliar roles, but we have an 'assignment guide' and you can learn more about these roles here. - Wrap-up & Final Comments
We finish with general feedback and thank each other.
Do I Have to Speak as a Guest?
No! You’re welcome to just watch, but we do really encourage guests to have a go. Even standing up and talking for 30 seconds is an enormous achievement and we’ll cheer you on — but there’s absolutely no pressure. We’re here to support each other, not to add pressure. Remember that members have all been in your shoes. We started our public speaking ‘journey’ just like you. Trust us, it does get easier, and you may even grow to love it!
What Makes Toastmasters Meetings So Effective?
- Safe Environment — Everyone is here to learn, not judge.
- Clear Structure — You’ll always know what’s coming next.
- Real Growth — You get feedback, encouragement, and new opportunities every time.
We love helping new people discover that public speaking doesn’t have to be terrifying — it can actually be fun.
Come visit us and see for yourself.
Ready to see what it’s all about?
We meet on the 2nd & 4th Tuesdays of each month.
Meetings start at 7:00pm sharp and ask everyone arrive by 6.50pm and they’re usually over by 9:30pm Meetings go for around 2.5 hours, with a break in the middle.
For more information, visit the pages on this website, particularly the What’s On page.Or can email us and let us know you'll be there.
Come along to a meeting — we’d love to meet you.