That was the topic of debate during the Rotary Club of Gloucester's high school debate held at the Gloucester Bowling Club on Tuesday, November 19.

In the past, Gloucester High School students have been invited to take on a topic against a group of Rotarians, however, this year there were two debating teams up for the challenge, so they were pitted against each other.

For the affirmative, arguing that Disney princesses are bad role models were year 10 students Keira Macdonald, Chloe Edstein, Makayla Battams and Liz Howarth (year 12). Arguing they are good role models, were year eight students Ryan Beggs, Verity Badhams, Elyssa Keen and Jorja Beard.

Although the year 10 team had a few last minute member adjustments, each group was given the topic before the event.

Chosen for the tough job of adjudicating the event were Leonie Hooke, Wendy Hughes and Rob Moore.

Liz kicked off the debate with a key message about how Disney princesses portray an unrealistic Disney body image for young girls.

Elyssa was first up for the opposing team, highlighting how the princesses have independence, stories of their own and inspirational qualities.

Keira reaffirmed her teams point indicating that the portrayal of the princesses brainwashed children into thinking they need to look and behave a certain way.

Ryan rebutted the point than gave examples of strong Disney princesses.

Makayla spoke about how body diversity was needed and how the pressure to look like a princess can lead to eating disorders and poor mental health.

Jorja summed up for her team, reiterating their overarching point of how the "princesses are more than meet the eye, to say that aren't good role models is a lie".

After a brief deliberation, the year eights were declared the winners.

Leonie told them they all had done a very good job, utilised some excellent debating techniques and that the final decision was very close. She said it was Jorja's poetic conclusion that stole the win.