Mitchell Brown, a student from St Monica’s Primary School, Evatt, was selected to participate in a special Year 4 students-only edition of Sam Mac’s Virtual Quiz, live on Channel Seven’s Sunrise. Mitchell was one of eight children, one from each state and territory, chosen to be on the show.

From 5:30 and throughout the morning, the children had to answer different quiz questions on topics such as celebrities, sports and media. When Sam Mac asked a question, the first person to hold their sign up got to answer.

“I really enjoyed the experience, but I found it very nerve-wracking,” said Mitchell. “When mum asked me if I wanted to be on the quiz, I was so excited and nervous that I couldn’t get to sleep,” he said.

Mitchell had to wake up at 4:45am to be ready on Zoom at 5:15am. When he was off the air, Mitchell had the opportunity to learn a little bit about his fellow contestants, their hobbies, interests and pets. Sam Mac and his producer, Sean Flynn, told jokes and shared their most embarrassing moments on television with the children.

Each contestant had to create a colourful background that highlighted where they live. In addition to the St Monica’s school banner, Mitchell included the names of all his classmates in 4R and a sticker from Belconnen United Sharks, his football club. Mitchell came prepared to do a whip-cracking demonstration for the viewers, but unfortunately time got away.

Mitchell’s mother, Melinda, a Year 3 teacher at St Monica’s, said that the support they had received from friends, family and the school community had made the experience for Mitchell an amazing one. “His classmates at St Monica’s prayed for him to do his best. That just brought tears to my eyes, they are such beautiful kids,” she said.

Mitchell said that he would be interested in being on television again, but that next time he would try not to feel so nervous. He offered up some tips and tricks for other aspiring television stars. “You have to try to hold your sign up as quickly as you can,” he said. “Try to relax, smile and have fun.”

Carmel Maguire, Principal of St Monica’s, was thrilled that Mitchell had been chosen to appear in the segment. “There was a lot of excitement in the staff room before school as staff gathered to watch the show.”

“We are very proud of Mitchell, for representing not only his school, but the ACT, she said”