The students were not able to hold off the Dubbo team’s counterattack, with the visiting students arguing the technology had created a global community.

Students had one hour to prepare their arguments on the topic “the internet is destroying relationships”.

Orange High’s first speaker Hannah Glennon spoke about cyber-bullying, the opportunities for clandestine online affairs and the dehumanisation of communication skills.

Three Year 12 students and one Year 9 made up the Orange team.

Debating coach Kristy Hilton said her team had made some good points but were gracious in their defeat to the strong Dubbo side.

The Mulvey Cup debating challenge is held in conjunction with the Astley Cup sporting competition between Orange High School, Dubbo Senior College and Bathurst High School.

Orange High School won against Bathurst in the debating last week.

The final debate will be held between Bathurst and Dubbo.