The NSW Minister for Education and Training, Verity Firth, today congratulated the winners of the 2009 Premier's Spelling Bee State Final. 

Lian Yang from Carlingford West Public School correctly spelt the word 'capricious' to win first place in the Junior State Final. Christy Hou from Denistone East Public School was the runner-up. 

In the Senior competition, Elizabeth Hsu from Summer Hill Public School took first place after successfully spelling 'abalone'. Kevin Tran from Georges Hall Public School was runner up with Dylan Cottee from Terranora Public School in third place. 

"More than 87,000 students took part in this year's Spelling Bee and these students have come out on top," Ms Firth said.  

"It's an enormous achievement - they are the undisputed champions and the state's best spellers.

"They received great support from their teachers and I'm sure they'll receive a special welcome when they return to school. 

"I congratulate them on their outstanding achievement." 

Ms Firth said the Premier's Spelling Bee was part of the NSW Government's commitment to improving literacy rates in NSW public schools. 

The competition was open to all students and had two divisions - Junior for Years 3 and 4 students, and Senior for Years 5 and 6 students. The finals were held at the ABC Centre, Sydney. 

Ms Firth said all finalists should be proud of their efforts. 

"Just making the final is a fantastic achievement and regardless of the outcome, every competitor should be satisfied with what they accomplished." 

Westpac was the principal sponsor of the Premier's Spelling Bee. The competition was also proudly supported by Franklin Electronics, Qantas, Macquarie Dictionary, ABC Local Radio and The Sun-Herald. 

For photographs or interviews please contact the NSW Department of Education and Training, on 9561 8501 or email mediaunit@det.nsw.edu.au.

For more information on the Premier's Spelling Bee visit: https://www.artsunit.nsw.edu.au/.