VCPA 2021 Awards Newspaper

Victorian Country Press Association

2021 Awards Best Photo Study Award Over 6000 The Weekly Advertiser - Croquet Paul Carracher

2 Victorian Country Press Association

2021 Awards

From VCPA president Andrew Schreyer

T

"As in past years, the quality of entries was high and breadth of topics they covered was broad, making judging both a pleasure and a challenge."

The winner was the Wangaratta Chronicle which Ange said submitted editions of But it also means there is no better time to celebrate our industry and its consistent quality across all four judging elements. people and what they have achieved over the past difficult 12 months.

"The overall layout of the papers allows for a nice balance between editorial and So once again while the VCPA did not hold a physical awards ceremony we did ensure previous and new judges, all highly distinguished in their fields, were on hand advertising. The well-supported advertising features deserve special mention. All this is capped off by the crisp and clean quality of the printing." ready to spend their time perusing the hundreds of entries we received for the 13 Alan Pont, judging the Over 6000 section, said with competition from online awards on offer this year. We very much appreciate their time and effort! competitors Google, Facebook and Twitter in addition to the existing electronic As usual there were difficult decisions to be made. Yes, there can only be one media and other print products it had become critical to control the local news winner, but there were also many highly commended and commendeds. franchise, with the integrity and trust the local newspaper can bring.

In the most hotly contested awards and perhaps the most coveted, Overall "The three entries submitted by each paper were their best for the year and the Newspaper Excellence, we had three worthy winners. level of run of press advertising in many was strong, no doubt underpinned by a very In the Under 2000 section, judge Lynne Smith congratulated each and every competitive rate." entry "for continuing to publish quality products for your community".

The winner was The Warragul & Drouin Gazette where Alan said paging of 96, "If you weren’t among the five placegetters then consider yourself unlucky because you are all worthy entrants. It takes a team to produce a newspaper and every person 92 and 80 pages for $1.50 represented great value.

"From front page good news stories like the record sales made at the Farm World in that team has an important role to play. Well done!"

Event, Family Violence and Rental Crisis, to a high story count, backed by substantial The winner was the Loddon Herald where Lynne said the strong front pages set advertising support, many photos and a detailed sports section, this paper has the scene for what was to come "inside this great community newspaper".

"I particularly like the fact the newspaper is taking up a campaign on behalf of its something for every reader."

I hope you find your own publications in these pages but congratulate every community, sending that message loud and clear through clearly identified taglines."

In the 2000-6000 section, judge Angela Carey said local journalism continued to entry submitted, winners or not. And I look forward to seeing you at a real awards ceremony in November this year. Enjoy the read. - Andrew deliver in another uncertain and unsettling year for the communities they served.

HERE is no doubt 2021 has been another extremely challenging year for everyone, including the media industry.

Best House Advertisement Open Best House Advertisement Award Open Winner - Hamilton Spectator - Bookings for the farmer

Brilliant! A powerful image and very clever headline, all perfectly aligned with the agricultural values of the publication - and most importantly this ad directly addresses a problem with a clear call to action. Reminds me of the iconic, "Not Happy Jan!" ads for Yellow Pages in the 90's but is original and authentic. Love it.

Judge Damian Morgan

Have you remembered to ...

Highly Commended - Phillip Island & San Remo Advertiser - New website

An eye-catching and original concept that lures the reader in. The sense of parody makes it fun and likeable, but the copy is strong with a powerful call to action and very clear purpose.

Highly Commended - The Maryborough District Advertiser - Are you going on a summer holiday?

Simple and clever. A good example of how generic stock photography can be used effectively when combined with tight and topical copy.

Commended - Phillip Island & San Remo Advertiser - Website launch No comments.

Commended - Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly - Support local during lockdown

A very good example of a simple and authentic ad that taps into the mood of the day. It avoids the temptation to say too much and overcomplicate. Well done.

Book! Book! B-kerk your ad in the December

Commended - Pakenham Berwick Gazette - Real Locals Read The Gazette No comments.

Contact Jenny Field (03) 5551 3842

jenny.field@spec.com.au

SIK1412316

(Booking deadline - November 15)

2021 Awards

Victorian Country Press Association 3

Overall Newspaper Excellence-Under 2000

I

t has been another challenging year for newspapers, however I congratulate each and every entry in this section for continuing to publish quality products for your community. If you weren’t among the five placegetters then consider yourself unlucky because you are all worthy entrants.

It takes a team to produce a newspaper and every person in that team has an important role to play. Well done!

Winner – Loddon Herald

The strong front pages set the scene for what is to come inside this great community newspaper. I particularly like the fact the newspaper is taking up a campaign on behalf of its community, sending that message loud and clear through clearly identified taglines. The content is comprehensive and local; a combination of strong news, features, photographs and advertising, supported by good clean layouts and overall production.

Highly Commended – The Alpine Observer

This entry provides lots of choices for readers – a good balance of strong local news stories, sport, letters, features and community views. Something for everyone. The excellent editorial coverage is supported by strong advertising and design.

Highly Commended – Ovens and Murray Advertiser

Great front page with strong topical news story and good choice of photograph. All papers should use a banner or breakout to entice the reader to turn the pages. Well balanced content that provides something for everyone, supported by clean modular layouts and advertising.

Commended – The Euroa Gazette

Great newspaper with strong front page and consistently good overall content.

Commended – The Free Press (Macedon Ranges)

Great selection of content for readers, headed up by strong local news.

Loddon Herald managing editor Chris Earl

Judge Lynne Smith

4 Victorian Country Press Association

2021 Awards

Overall Newspaper Excellence-2000-6000 TODAY

Page 21

FRIDAY, October 2, 2020

Candidates for Rural City of Wangaratta council election

$1.40

Pages 23-26

Wangaratta horsemen will head to Tatura today

INC. GST

12o 10o 13o 15o SAT

SUN

MON

TUE

www.wangarattachronicle.com.au

FRIDAY, June 25, 2021

Phone (03) 5723 0100

ROVERS NEED RESPONSE

ARCH-RIVALS’ SUNDAY SHOWDOWN

O&K

Weekend Edition

www.wangarattachronicle.com.au

AWFA

TUE

Phone (03) 5723 0100

O&M

MON

Mostly sunny

Showers

28o 30o 20o 17o SUN

21o

12o

Sunny

SAT

TODAY

TODAY

25o

Judge Angela Carey

Weekend Edition $1.40

INC. GST

21o 21o 23o 24o SAT

SUN

MON

www.wangarattachronicle.com.au

TUE

SEASON ON THE LINE

Sport

Upper King Valley businesses pleading to be included in the border bubble Page 3

Club in running for Good Friday race meeting

IT MAKES NO SENSE REHAB DREAM

Weekend Edition

LOCAL FOOTBALLL& NETBA L

FRIDAY, March 26, 2021

Phone (03) 5723 0100

$1.40

LIFTOUT INSIDE

YOUR 36-PAGE SEASON GUIDE TO 2021

Page 4

Outrage over Telstra outages

TAKING SHAPE: Construction of the new drug and alcohol rehab centre administration building on Greta Road was installed within two days this week. The 30-bed residential modules are scheduled to be installed today, with the facility to open later this year.

PHOTO: Kieren Tilly

BY ANITA McPHERSON

amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au

there is an opportunity for regional Victorians to travel, however, visitors from the New South Wales border are still not permitted to come to the wine region.

The office of Indi federal Independent MP Helen Haines confirmed after discussions held with NSW Cross Border Commissioner James McTavish this week, it was no closer to getting the border bubble extended to include all townships within the same COVID-free local government areas, such as the

Rural City of Wangaratta and the Indigo Shire.

Natalie Pizzini from Pizzini Wines said tourism in the upper end of the King Valley is reliant on visitation from Melbourne and the Albury Wodonga region.

She said she initially believed the King Valley to be included in the revised “border bubble”, only to find on closer inspection that while the Myrrhee Valley was, the borderline was drawn at Moyhu.

“We understand that Melbourne is rightfully closed and certainly wouldn’t be pushing for that to change at this stage - because we would all be anxious about accepting visitors from that area right now,” she said.

■

Continued page 2

For For all all your your Quality Quality Repairs, Repairs, Mechanical Mechanical Servicing Servicing & & Roadworthies Roadworthies 5721 8624 j/21d14079-v10/3620

15 Sinclair Drive, Wangaratta www.premierpanels.com.au

TAKING SHAPE WANGARATTA will be home to Victoria’s equal largest residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre by the end of the year with pre-fabricated structures at the Greta Road facility installed this week.

Gateway Health project manager Maryanne Donnellan was overwhelmed and thrilled to see the building structure take shape yesterday, realising the joint feat after a lot of work in planning the facility.

It will bring 30 additional rehab

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

beds to the region, complementing the existing 15-bed circuit breaker unit in Benalla, with other state facilities - a 30-bed unit in Corio and a 20-bed youth facility in Traralgon.

The Wangaratta facility will have residential modules linked via decking to the main building,

there will be sheds for residents to build and create, veggie gardens, an outdoor activities area, exercise equipment and play equipment for children.

Residents at the facility will be responsible for the property’s development and maintenance under guidance by a professional, and this might involve the building of picnic tables, veggie gardens and general landscaping and upkeep of gardens and lawns.

“We’re trying to make it the greatest rehab facility we can for

our region and there is space to extend it in the future if we need to,” Ms Donnellan said.

“To see it come together on site is a dream come true for us who have been working on it and the stakeholder services who advocated for it - it will be a really happy day when it all comes together.

“People recover from substance addiction issues and to have a part in supporting them through their journey and recovery is an amazing opportunity and a privilege.”

■ Continued page 3

PLUS

FULL FIXTURES Page 5

Cr Benton stands against move

Page 7

Galen appoints new principal

SOLAR

PLANS to redevelop Wangaratta’s Reith Road Equine Precinct as a thoroughbred training facility have fallen flat but there are moves to breathe new life into the area by diversifying its scope of use.

A change in the planning scheme to

Equine precinct: renewed bid to open scope of use for idle land

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

include animal training on site could generate activity that supports

the Wangaratta Equine Hospital, and students pursuing equine studies and horse breeding via GOTAFE. It follows changes to the planning scheme in 2016 which allowed for thoroughbred horse

PAGE 3: WEAPONS, DRUGS SEIZED

trainers to set up satellite facilities, however, developers have taken a different tack.

Council director of development services, Stephen Swart, said the planning scheme that currently applies to the

area limits land use related to thoroughbred horse racing and training.

He said the proposed change to the planning scheme will allow for a broader range of equine uses for that precinct.

The table of uses is

proposed to be broadened to include animal training on site, the construction of horse stables, and for the purpose of collecting and recycling manure from the equine precinct as compost.

■ Continued page 2

SPECIAL FEATURE: SPORTS & AQUATIC CENTRE

Watters Electrical & Solar

ELECT ELECTRICAL & SOLAR CONTRACTORS

CHANGE OF TACK Proudly serving the local community since 1957.

For all your electrical, data, CCTV, security and solar needs.

New Solar PV rebates for small business announced this week.

Solar Victoria small business rebate program now open 5,000 rebates available in 2021 '2 127 0Ζ66 287 Call us to arrange your onsite inspection and no obligation quote

Preferred Partner Repairer to all major insurers!

6)# 2EG s .37 2EG

OPEN FOR BUSINESS: Natalie Pizzini from Pizzini Wines said businesses in the Upper King Valley have their COVID Safe plans in place and are ready to go, but visitors from the New South Wales border can’t come.

PHOTO: Anita McPherson

WINERIES in the Upper King Valley are at a loss to understand why they have not been included within the border bubble allowing visitors to travel there from the New South Wales border region.

Pizzini Wines and Dal Zotto Wines are among the many local businesses who have endured one of their most challenging years after last summer’s bushfires, the consequent loss of visitation to their wineries and the effect of smoke on their vineyards.

Then came COVID-19 which has impacted all aspects of their businesses and for months brought visitation to the region to a grinding halt.

Now as case numbers fall and restrictions begin to ease

INC. GST

Call us today on 03 5722 1958 REC 17608

24 hour Call Out Service

THE POWER TO DO MORE

From left, North East Media CEO Ed Higgins, Wangaratta Chronicle advertising manager Ian Pople and group editor Jeff Zeuschner

L

ocal journalism continued to deliver during the past 12 months in what was another uncertain and unsettling year for the communities they serve. As you would expect, entries submitted covered the ongoing impacts of the pandemic, but also looked beyond the virus to present stories which show that life goes on and hope for a normal future remains. As in past years, the quality of entries was high and breadth of topics they covered was broad, making judging both a pleasure and a challenge. The winners of this year’s awards have been selected primarily because they went beyond what the reader expected. They surprised, entertained, educated and moved the reader - all key elements of quality local journalism. All entrants are to be commended for their commitment to their work and their communities.

Winner - Wangaratta Chronicle

The Wangaratta Chronicle submitted editions of consistent quality across all four judging elements. Editorially, it offers a high story count across a breadth of topicsfrom hard news to "parish pump", all important elements of a local newspaper.

The features (both advertising and editorial) and columns of interest scattered throughout provide diversity of thought and give added value to the reader.

The quality and placement of photographs enhances the editorial layout and, importantly, features lots of local faces. The layout is clean, fresh and easy for the reader to navigate.

The overall layout of the papers allows for a nice balance between editorial and advertising. The well-supported advertising features deserve special mention. All this is capped off by the crisp and clean quality of the printing.

2021 Awards

Victorian Country Press Association 5

Overall Newspaper Excellence-Over 6000 Warragul & Drouin

CIRCULATING THROUGHOUT BAW BAW SHIRE & WEST GIPPSLAND

Warragul & Drouin

CIRCULATING THROUGHOUT BAW BAW SHIRE & WEST GIPPSLAND

SALE

www.thegazette.com.au

Recommended retail price $1.50 Inc. GST

Property Liftout Inside

Kelly’s courage

Saleyards on market PAGE 5

SALE

CIRCULATING THROUGHOUT BAW BAW SHIRE & WEST GIPPSLAND PPSLAND

E s t a b l i s h e d 18 9 8

E s t a b l i s h e d 18 9 8 Tuesday, May 11 2021. 92 pages

Tuesday, March 30 2021. 96 pages

w w w . th eg azette. co m . au

Farm World REVIEW LIFTOUT INSIDE

Bar open PAGE 3

PAGE 21

Tuesday, June 22 2021. 80 pages Tues

Thanking fireys

www.the gaz e tte .c om.au

Councillor resigns

PAGE 40

PAGE 3

Property Liftout Inside

Recommended ed retail price $1.50 Inc. GST

Flood d help PAGE GE 22

Record sales reported

Alarming rise in family violence

by Yvette Brand Millions of dollars in sales and sell-out crowds contributed to one of the most successful Farm World events ever, according to Lardner Park chief executive officer Craig Debnam.

Elders livestock agent Michael Robertson calls for bids during Friday’s last dairy sale at the Warragul Saleyards facility, supported by agent Andy Mumford. Photograph: NATHAN WEATHERHEAD

trail and are located on single lane tracks off the trail.

“I can hear the chainsaw going at two or three in the morning.

“It’s the worse case of domestic firewood poaching I’ve ever seen.

“We shouldn’t be seeing or tolerating this activity, it’s environmentally unacceptable.

“The strategy of Parks Victoria and police to stop this just isn’t working,” she said.

She said some residents had been threatened not to say anything and threatening notes had been left on tree stumps.

The woman said they also were aware of spotlighting, hunting and shooting activities.

“This is anti-social behaviour and illegal activity that is making residents nervous about using the trail.

“The longer this goes on the more tense the situation gets. If something isn’t done soon,

there could be an altercation,” she said.

The spokeswoman said the friends group had been working with Parks Victoria, DELWP and Baw Baw Shire to have seasonal closure gates installed at the trail entrance to protect the trail for users, allowing access to maintenance vehicles only.

“That would go some way to preventing this fraudulent poaching that’s getting worse and worse,” she said.

Another FRCT member said she had seen a lot of wood being carted out of the park and she wanted to see the right thing being done by the bush.

“It’s been very stressful. I have been confronted and abused and threatened when I questioned where the wood was from.

“I could hear chainsaws going one night so I drove up there and they took off,” she said.

A local resident who uses the track regularly

mates rates

State Opposition leader Michael O’Brien opens the new pavilion at Lardner Park on Friday that will be used for dairy and calf sales over the next 18 months, with Lardner Park chairman Ian Cougle (right).

$31,900

Plans starting from

$55/mth yȌ ƧȌȁȁƵƧɈǞȌȁ ǏƵƵ yȌ ƧȌȁɈȲƊƧɈȺ ‫ ׀ٽ‬XȁȺɈƊǶǶƊɈǞȌȁ

Save up to $400 with promo code: MATESRATES ES S

,QF *67

68

1300 66 55 75

TALK TO DAVID 0418 595 679 or JAKE 0417 945 587 TODAY!

swoopbroadband.com.au

*T.A.P Conditions Apply

1300 66 55 75

The end of an era at Warragul saleyards coincided with a new pavilion at Lardner Park, purposely built to cater for cattle exhibitions as well as dairy and calf market sales until a new regional saleyards opens at Longwarry.

Victorian Livestock Exchange

MATES RATES for locals

BX23SLB Tractor with 4 in 1 Loader and Backhoe

Our Swooperstars will connect you faster! JƵɈ ˛ɮƵƮ ɩǞȲƵǶƵȺȺ ƧȌȁȁƵƧɈǞȌȁ ɩǞɈǘǞȁ ‫ ׅ‬ƦɐȺǞȁƵȺȺ ƮƊɯȺ

3 Endeavour St, Warragul. Phone 5622 9100 G03997BH

W

by Yvette Brand As the auction hammer pounded for the final dairy sale at Warragul saleyards on Friday morning, a new temporary sales facility opened at Lardner Park.

ONE ONLY!

²ƊɨƵ ɐȯ ɈȌ $400 ɩǞɈǘ

*Terms and conditions apply.

for walking and bike riding urged community members to be aware of any suspicious vehicles or people taking firewood from the area.

He said a lot of people wouldn’t realise it was illegal to take firewood from a park area.

“There has been a significant number of trees cut down over the past 14 months, there have been some altercations and aggressive behaviour.

“This is frustrating residents and people who use the trail that there has been a lack of action by authorities.

“We know the authorities want to catch them in the act so we want the community to be aware. If you are in and around the rail trail and see someone taking firewood, report it to triple zero (000),” he said.

Local police said they were unaware of reports of firewood poaching.

Continued p2

G03997BB

Friends of Rokeby-Crossover Trail members and local residents allege offenders are entering the park area, in the dead of night, cutting down trees and removing firewood.

Residents say they have heard chainsaws running at early hours of the morning and the following day can see remnants of felled trees and removed wood.

They have called on authorities to take action and urge community members visiting the trail to alert police if they see anyone removing wood from the park.

A Friends of Rokeby-Crossover Trail (FRCT) spokesperson said more than 100 trees had been cut down and the firewood removed.

Many of the trees cannot be seen from the

G06412EF

by Yvette Brand Rokeby residents are furious the bush setting of their Rokeby-Crossover Trail is being massacred by firewood poaching.

Hammer falls as new pavilion opens

T&C’s apply. Valid only on Acceler8ed plans with a 12 month contract. ct.

Offer includes free installation and one month free.

ith competition from online competitors Google, Facebook and Twitter in addition to the existing electronic media and other print products it has become critical to control the local news franchise, with the integrity and trust the local newspaper can bring. The advertising market has become difficult because of online competition, newspaper reach and exacerbated by the Covid pandemic which has put pressure on rate and margin. The three entries submitted by each paper were their best for the year and the level of run of press advertising in many was strong, no doubt underpinned by a very competitive rate. In the paid papers submitted the paging was comparable to previous years and with no increase in cover price for many, represented value for the newspaper buyer. While papers had a website, Facebook page and Twitter feed these were no substitute for the depth and range of news across their local community. The detail in junior and senior sport in some papers really stood out and would appeal to those young and old who like to see their names in print. The quality exhibited by the entries did make for a significant assignment in judging and picking a winner. There were areas of improvement for some in terms of front-page pointers with impact, breakouts and sub-headings, breakup slabs of text and more short briefs.

by Yvette Brand Pressures relating to COVID lockdowns have been identified by police as a key contributor to significant increases in family violence incidents in the latest crime statistics.

The demand for rental properties in West Gippsland has been described as “red hot” in the current market, making it difficult for young families like Alicia Youlden Reid and Davyd Reid to find somewhere to call home. Photograph: MICHAEL ROBINSON

Caught in rental crisis

by Yvette Brand A hidden face of homelessness is emerging as a rental crisis takes hold across West Gippsland.

A Warragul family say they are that hidden face – a young family trying desperately to find a rental property when demand is so high.

David Reid, Alicia Youlden Reid and their four-year-old son Hamish want a home to call their own.

Twelve months ago they were forced to make some tough and heartbreaking decisions when they both found themselves unemployed in a COVID environment.

They struggled for as long as they could in their Yarragon home, thankful for the financial support of their families to keep them afloat.

Community munity erie es club series

KRONE PRE-SEASON DEALS ON NOW!

mȌƧƊǶ ȁȌɈٌǏȌȲٌȯȲȌ˛ɈȺ ǐƵɈ CASH-MONEY ɩǘƵȁ ɯȌɐ ǯȌǞȁ ȌɐȲ !ȌǿǿɐȁǞɈɯ !ǶɐƦ ²ƵȲǞƵȺ‫خ‬

Talk to us about ORDER BEFORE APRIL 30th, 2021 for: the all new Best Price on all Krone Hay Machinery Vari-Pack Belt Model 4 Rolls of Netwrap with every baler ~ FREE! Balers Finance at 0.9% p.a for 12 mths with 20% deposit*

ɩȌȌȯ ‫ ׀׀ׁٽ‬ɩǘƵȁ ǿƵǿƦƵȲȺ ȺɩǞɈƧǘ ɈȌ ²ɩȌȌȯ ‫ ׀ٽ‬ǞȁȺɈƊǶǶƊɈǞȌȁ ƊȁƮ Iª00 ǏƊȺɈ ‫ ۋ‬ȲƵǶǞƊƦǶƵ àǞIǞ ‫ٌׅ‬ȺɈƊȲ ǶȌƧƊǶ ƧɐȺɈȌǿƵȲ ȺƵȲɨǞƧƵ

Call 1300 66 55 75

TALK TO DAVID 0418 595679 OR JAKE 0417 945587 TODAY! 3 Endeavour St, Warragul. Phone 5622 9100 *T.A.P. Conditions Apply. OFFER ENDS 30/4/21

But, determined not to end up with a bad credit rating, they decided moving out was their only option.

Davyd says their story is common, individuals and families forced to couch surf while they get back on their feet.

A State Government rental assistance package announced in June last year, came too late for Davyd and Alicia.

“We’d already jumped. Our parents were helping us out to meet the shortfall but how much money do we ask them for,” Alicia said.

Davyd and Alicia were luckier than some, the generosity of a friend who took them in gave them more than a couch. But, 12 months later, they want a place to call their own.

Davyd says they have become the “hidden

We’ve got you covered.

ÀƵȲǿȺ ƊȁƮ ƧȌȁƮǞɈǞȌȁȺ ƊȯȯǶɯ‫خ‬

face” of homelessness in the community – a young family, now earning a decent income but struggling to break back into a market flooded by increasing demand.

Real estate property managers in Warragul, Drouin and Trafalgar say the local market was inundated by tenants looking for homes.

It is a story similar to other regional areas where higher rental prices and property shortages are contributing to a rental crisis.

Grateful for the generosity of a friend who took them in, Davyd and Alicia know it’s time to find their own place.

David has full time work and Alicia works part time as a support and disability worker while in the final semester of teaching studies.

Continued p2

Baw Baw police services area was not exempt from the concerning increases in family violence across the state and was alarmingly above the state averages.

Crime Statistics Agency statistics for the 12month period ending March 2021 released last week showed a 30.8 per cent increase in family violence incidents – driven largely by a 54 per cent increase in breaches of family orders.

The location of the majority of Baw Baw’s crime also reflected family incidents with the home identified as the principal place for crimes and 10 per cent higher than the previous year.

Baw Baw PSA figures were well above state figures which showed an 11.3 per cent increase in family violence related offences.

Baw Baw PSA inspector Alison Crombie said the figures were concerning and alarming, given recent statistics had showed a downward or plateaued trend in family offences.

“COVID has had a significant impact on the statistics. Family violence was significantly up where we have had people living in close proximity for long periods, home schooling and living with each other 24 hours a day,” she said.

Insp Crombie said the overall increase in family incidents was reflected in increased home-based assaults as well as stalking, harassment and breaches of family orders.

She said another concerning aspect of the latest statistics was a 76 per cent increase in sexual offences, which reflected the overall increase in family violence.

Continued p2

FEEDER LEADER 3PL Single Bale Feeder

Extra strong construction - reliable - feeds both sides

$8,300 INC GST

Current Stock Only TALK TO DAVID 0418 595679 OR JAKE 0417 945587 TODAY! 3 Endeavour St, Warragul. Phone 5622 9100 2൵ HU HQGV WK -XQH

From left, Warragul and Drouin Gazette general manager Andrew Schreyer, editor Carolyn Turner, advertising manager Donna Lynn and production manager Rick Gray

Winner - The Warragul & Drouin Gazette

As a local newspaper the Gazette’s paging of 96, 92 and 80 pages for $1.50, whether bought casually or home delivered represented great value. From front page good news stories like the record sales made at the Farm World Event, Family Violence and Rental Crisis, to a high story count, backed by substantial advertising support, many photos and a detailed sports section. This paper has something for every reader.

Highly Commended - Packenham Berwick Gazette

announced in September 2019 it would close the Warragul saleyards, with all cattle sales to be transferred to its Pakenham facility. The VLE later provided a reprieve to agents, allowing fortnightly dairy sales and weekly calf markets to continue until the end of March this year.

While farmers, agents and regular characters of the yards have had a taste of closure since the end of adult cattle markets in December 2019, the final hammer Continued p2 has now fallen.

G06412DZ

Firewood poached

With a COVID safe plan restricting crowds to 7500 people a day, the three-day event sold out, delivering organisers a crowd record.

Mr Debnam said 22,500 tickets were sold, with Sunday’s tickets selling out by 8.30am.

He said the 2019 record event saw 28,000 people attend over four days.

Mr Debnam said it was disappointing they had to turn people away, but in a COVID environment, they understood the rules in place and had to abide by their plan.

“We pushed hard to get the event up and we understand our exhibitors were nervous.

“We have been very humbled by the support shown. We’ve instilled confidence in the community that big events can happen in a COVID safe environment.

“It took a lot of courage to do it because a lot of people said we couldn’t do it,” he said.

And the feedback from more than 450 exhibitors was extremely positive, Mr Debnam said.

Exhibitors reported more than $10 million in tractor sales and millions of dollars worth of leads to follow up.

Mr Debnam said VC Traders reported record sales at its site.

“Realistically, it could be a $40 million stimulus to the local community,” he said.

Mr Debnam said the new layout to create themed hubs of agricultural equipment, farm supplies, livestock, tools and general interest areas also was well supported.

He said the site of wall-to-wall tractors along the Burnt Store Rd boundary reinforced it was an agricultural field day not a Sunday market.

“These were the things that we envisaged would re-invigorate Farm World and it worked,” he said.

After introducing a new three-day format from Friday to Sunday, Mr Debnam said organisers would seek feedback in the coming weeks.

Continued p2 Photographs p12 Farm World review feature - liftout

G03997BP

Friends of Rokeby-Crossover Trail members and local residents allege offenders are entering the park area, in the dead of night, cutting down trees and illegally removing firewood, leaving stumps and remnants of felled trees..

SALE

E s t a b l i s h e d 18 9 8 Recommended retail price $1.50 Inc. GST

G06412EM

Warragul & Drouin

Judge Alan Pont

The Gazette continues to impress with a strong front-page stance on issues which affect the community including Killer Roads and Residential Development.

A highlight is the clear action sport photos and clean layout. The repeat of the Beer o’clock column interview of 2016 with local resident and commentator Drew Morphett OAM, spread over two pages was a great read.

Commended - Surf Coast Times

Advertising is news and the Times has plenty of this particularly with high real estate content in what is a hot real estate market. Its front-page emphasis on Tourism Troubles, the need for government to provide funding for a new Torquay hospital and keeping Bells Beach as is without an elevated pathway were all strong front-page stories supporting the local community.

Commended - Dandenong Star-Journal

This paper, while publishing 20 pages impressed with its front-page pointers, eye catching headlines such as “Sampey slapped” where a resident attacked an excouncillor. The range of local stories, particularly those covering local crime made each issue an interesting read. The clean layout and clear photos enhanced the product.

6 Victorian Country Press Association

2021 Awards

Best Community Campaign Best Community Campaign 2000–6000

S

ome great examples of community campaigns and very different. Remember a community campaign is different from an advertising campaign. It must be driven by an issue close to the community’s heart. Whether that be connecting the community with its local wonders, lifting spirits during lockdown or fighting for a service that could be a matter of life or death. All these are very worthy placegetters.

Judge Lynne Smith

A Part Together artist Jenni Ivins

Lauren Duffy

Winner - Pakenham Berwick Gazette - A Part Together

A very different community campaign although the concept to connect a community through some challenging times is wonderful. The partnership between a local newspaper and its community is to be commended. To use a board game and playing cards for this connection was a terrific idea and the result quite beautiful. Well done.

Highly Commended - Mansfield Courier - Ambos campaign - Jarrah Loh

There is no better community campaign than for a newspaper that fights for an issue on behalf of its community. It took a tragic situation to spark this campaign - the initial story is beautifully written by the reporter. Well done.

Highly Commended - The Local - Legends of Lockdown - Donna Kelly

Few communities didn't need a lift during Covid-19 lockdowns. This campaign concept works with the newspaper showcasing local legends. Nothing inspires others more than reading about people making a difference, no matter how big or small.

Commended - Colac Herald - Keep Colac Safe

The front page of the Colac Herald says it all. Well done to the designers of the concept.

Best Community Campaign Over 6000

W

hile it is disappointing to only receive two entries, both newspapers are to be commended for their efforts and impressive campaigns. Two very different campaigns that are yet to finish - one raising a significant issue for every community as the staggering statistics of violence against women continue to rise. The other, an example of the newspaper giving its voice to an issue of concern to the local council and the wider community.

Congratulations and well done.

Winner - North Central Review - Mitchell Shire 16 Days of Activism - Lauren Duffy

A terrific campaign and a worthy winner. The use of a wrap in the anti-violence theme colour added to the visual impact of the campaign. The front page sets the scene - an open letter to the community to be accountable. The content was strong and importantly, engaging. A great campaign. Well done.

Child care crisis

Best Community Campaign Under 2000

N

The campaign was supported with strong front pages, a wide representation of voices, editorials and an effective message. Importantly, it received great community feedback. Well done.

ewspapers are the heart of their communities and part of their role is to be the community voice. It is important that Commended - Cobden Timboon Coast Times we listen to what is important to them and when - Petition for change - Stacey Gladman necessary, give them a stronger public voice. A Roads resonate, especially poor roads. This is a good good community campaign is well worth the effort community issue for a newspaper to take up on behalf and can bring about change for the better.

Winner - Loddon Herald - Child care crisis - Chris Earl

An exceptional entry. The Loddon Herald demonstrates how to do a community campaign well.

Child care is a topic that would resonate with most of the community and it fleshed out all angles.

of its residents. A petition is an excellent idea however the support of a newspaper campaign can bring these important issues to the attention of governments.

Next time consider expanding the campaign to include more views from those who use the roads, comments from key decision makers and editorials.

Highly Commended - The Warragul & Drouin Gazette - Growth Gridlock

Covid-19 has interrupted many plans, however I look forward to seeing the results of this community campaign as restrictions ease. It is a great issue that brings everyone together - council, community and the local newspaper.

While council or the community on their own may struggle to bring this issue to government eyes, the newspaper can take the lead. A united voice can work wonders. Well done.

2021 Awards

Best Magazine Open

Victorian Country Press Association 7

Judge Garry Baker

The Weekly Advertiser crew, from left, Sarah Matthews, Michelle Reid, Kelly Laird, Mark Sulic, Dean Lawson, Lee Meadows and Georgia Bailey

O

verall, the standard of entry in the Best Magazine/Special Publication Award was inferior to recent years. One could argue this was inevitable with the restrictions on business and therefore advertising sales during Covid-19.

However, often the entrant did not suffer from any Covid impact, rather from a lack of adherence to the theme. While the key rationale for any special publication is generating additional revenue, should that mean anyone who can be convinced to invest their dollars becomes a prospect, even when their business has little or no connection to the

theme? Additionally, in many cases more attention could have been paid to the quality, direction and theme consistency in editorial/advertorial.

Congratulations to the winner and highly commended, and all other entrants who produced their magazine/special publication despite the challenges.

Winner: Lifestyle Wimmera - The Weekly Advertiser

This magazine was selected as the winner because of its editorial and advertising consistency around a clear ‘lifestyle’ theme.

It contained quality feature articles and a broad range of advertising, which in combination keep the reader’s interest throughout the 60 pages, plus cover. It would further benefit by increasing investment in print quality.

Highly Commended: Wine Trail - Macedon Ranges and Beyond

A magazine with a clear theme and consistent presentation throughout. Quality was maintained in every aspect, from printing to photography and information on the participating businesses, with an easy to read format, crisp advertisements and well written advertorial and editorial.

Best Digital Advertisement Open Creative designer John Anastasiou

I

Judge Peter Clark

n this category I was looking for advertisements that represented the target market well and captured the browsers' attention without being too cluttered. It’s tempting to make the mistake of trying to say too much in limited space and time. Browsers need to be able to quickly and easily understand the message and then have their interest piqued enough to click-through to the web page with the expanded information.

Getting the balance right between attractiveness/creativity and vital information can be difficult but it is often the key to a successful digital advertisement.

Winner - Wyndham Star Weekly - Federation Village

This is a well laid-out advertisement. The main image is engaging and appropriate for the target audience. The messaging is clear, easy to understand, and comprehensive without being cluttered.

The price point dropping down is particularly eye catching and encourages click-through.

8 Victorian Country Press Association

2021 Awards

Best News Photo

Judge Bob Mackie

Stewart Chambers

Best News Photo Under 2000

A

Melinda Oygden

s to be expected in the news photograph category, entries covered a wide range of subject matter but also a wide range in quality; ranging from the very good images which could take pride of place in much larger publications to images which were poorly framed and exposed. It was a very close contest to take the top spot with only one point separating the winner from the highly commended.

Best News Photo Award Under 2000-6000

R

egional newspapers often don’t have the opportunity to capture “hard news” photographs and that’s when good photographers earn their keep by using the inches behind the camera to create great photographs. In this category, photographers have consistently used their skills and imagination to create memorable photographs.

Winner - Cobden Timboon Coast Times - Search ends in vain - Stacey Gladman

Photographer Stacey Gladman captures a rare "hard news moment" with her photograph in the Cobden Timboon Coast Times of the search for a young woman missing in flood waters. The image captures the gloom of the search by rescue workers and local volunteers sadly, the search ended in vain with the discovery of the woman's body.

Highly Commended - Alexandra Standard - What happened to Jordy? - Anne Richey

Photographer Anne Richey captures the emotions of family members who are grieving the loss of their son and brother Jordy who allegedly was the victim of a hit and run driver. A very strong image which, arguably, could have benefited from a slightly tighter cropping on the front page of Alexandra Standard. With only a single point between this image and the eventual winner in this category, the photo is well worthy of a Highly Commended mention.

Winner - Pakenham Berwick Gazette - Border challenge - Stewart Chambers Commended - Snowy River Mail - The waiting game - Melinda Oygden

Photographer Melinda Oygden puts a human face to the impacts of bush fires with her study of Tony Renn, living in squalor after losing his home. With strong framing, the main photo on the front page of the Snowy River Mail tells the story at a glance, however, its impact is lessened somewhat in the published version by a second photo inlaid over the image which distracts the reader's eye. Still, a very good news photograph and well worthy of a Commendation.

This great photo provides an easy to understand illustration of the complexity of Covid lockdown rules.

The line in the middle of the road provides an obvious border between one shire in lockdown while only centimetres away another shire still enjoys Covid-free freedoms. The photo is nicely complemented by a clever caption as daughter Tracey (in Covid-free territory) jumps for joy while mum Ashley keeps both feet firmly on the ground in lockdown. A well thought-out example of how a photo can quickly illustrate a news story and a worthy winner.

Highly Commended - The Local - I love my calendar girl - Kyle Barnes

The Local photographer Kyle Barnes has recreated an iconic image from the film American Beauty for a cheeky charity calendar.

2021 Awards

Best News Photo

The original image - a nude woman afforded discretion through strategic placement of red rose petals - is immediately recognisable in the calendar image of 84-year-old Peggy Warren.

A photo guaranteed to bring a smile to your face and no doubt a big part of the reason why the calendar was a sell out!

Commended - The Maryborough District Advertiser - New world: expecting your first child during Covid-19 - Christie Harrison

An interesting take on the traditional "new baby with proud parents" photograph. Christie Harrison's photo in The Maryborough District Advertiser illustrates how life is different in the new normal times of Covid but, at the same time, the reflections in the window offer hope for the future.

Commended - Pakenham Berwick Gazette - Storm of support - Stewart Chambers

A good camera angle, tight cropping and newsworthiness earns a Commendation for this Pakenham Berwick Gazette photo of masked SES members learning of government pledges of support which will be added to their on-the-ground work to help storm impacted residents. Photographer Stewart Chambers has found a strong photo in what must have been a dry news event.

Commended - The Local - Max thriving - Kyle Barnes

Photographer Kyle Barnes came up with a clever idea to illustrate a story promoting the ChillOut festival. The photo shows two faces of one man; one side of the face is Max Primmer in his day to day, average-person look while the other half is in full wig and makeup as Max's LGBTIQA+ alter ego Di-Alysis. Cleverly done and commended.

Victorian Country Press Association 9

Judge Bob Mackie

Best News Photo Over 6000

W

hile there are a couple of outstanding photos in this section, overall they don’t have the appeal of the images entered in the smaller circulation sections. Again, the top shots are winners but the bulk of the photos could have benefited from a bit more thought from the photographers.

Winner - Wyndham Star Weekly - Shoulders to the wheel - Damian Janevski

Damian Janevski's photograph of wheel gymnastics course participants takes top spot in this category due to the obvious effort put into perfectly arranging the subjects before pushing the shutter release. Used on the front page of the Wyndham Star Weekly, the photograph immediately captures the reader's attention due to the very good use of framing.

Commended - North Central Review - First jab - Colin MacGillivray

Colin MacGillivray's crystal clear and emotive photograph of aged care resident Dorothy Hayes receiving her first jab of Covid vaccine illustrates the importance of Covid vaccinations for our elderly citizens.

The photo was well used on the front page of the North Central Review with a tight, but very effective use of cropping to pull the readers' eyes to the focal point of the photo.

Damian Janevski

10 Victorian Country Press Association

Best Sports Photo

2021 Awards

Judge Bob Mackie

Best Sports Photo Under 2000

Best Sports Photo Award 2000 - 6000

G

R

Winner - The Alpine Observer - Big whack - Kieren Tilly

Winner - Portland Observer - Trials - Nicole Cleary

ood sports action was a bit thin on the ground in this section which only attracted nine entries – two of which are from the same event - which is surprising considering the popularity of sport in country towns. That said the winner is a classic cricket photo nicely used on the back page.

Kieren Tilly's winner in the under 2000 best sports photo section is a perfectly timed shot - just like the cricket batsman's action it portrays. The nicely sharp photo captures the batsman's eyes focused on the ball as it sails towards the boundary.

The photograph is complemented by the caption which points out the batsman was his team's highest scorer in the one-day game; a case of words adding to the photograph and combining to add news to the action shot.

egional newspapers don’t often have the opportunity to capture “hard news” photographs and that’s when good photographers earn their keep by using the inches behind the camera to create great photographs. In this category, photographers have consistently used their skills and imagination to create memorable photographs.

Nicole Cleary's excellent photo of a horse and rider splashing out of a water jump while competing in local horse trials earns top spot in this category's best sports photo section. Perfect focus, choice of shutter speed and timing freezes the action to provide an image which has all the attributes of a great action sports photo.

Highly Commended - Pakenham Gazette - Howzat! - Stewart Chambers

Stewart Chambers captures the thrill of victory and agony of defeat at the cricket. Earning a Highly Commended, the photo's perfect timing shows a batman's disgust at his dismissal while his opponents gleefully celebrate. Indeed as noted in the caption, the picture could tell a thousand words...

Highly Commended - Yarrawonga Chronicle - The year junior footy dominated headlines - Les Garbutt

The Yarrawonga Chronicle gives junior football its due with a large photo of the younger action on the front page. Perfectly framed, focused and timed, Les Garbutt's photo captures the moment of truth as the ball hangs in the air as one young player attempts to get a kick away as his opponent grabs on for the tackle.

2021 Awards

Best Sports Photo

Victorian Country Press Association 11

Judge Bob Mackie

Best Sports Photo Over 6000

T

his section only attracted 12 entries but did include some superb sporting images. Timing is everything in sport and also in photographing it; the best of the photos froze a moment in time on the sporting field/court. Again some of the layout editors did their best to treat the photos with the respect they deserved – with the winning photo getting particularly glorious treatment.

Nicole Cleary The photo captures the determination on both youngsters' faces as they battle for a win.

Commended - Colac Herald - Under the pump - Ruby O'Dowd

Perfect timing, sharp focus and the capture of emotion from a player getting a handball away as his tackler takes hold earn this Ruby O'Dowd photo in the Colac Herald a Commended award.

Commended - Lakes Post - Juniors fly high - Jenny Rooks

Jenny Rooks in the Lakes Post captures an epic battle for the ball by a pack of junior footy players.

Excellent use by the paper in its layout contributed to the Commended award.

Winner - The Weekly Advertiser Intense - Paul Carracher (pictured right)

Paul Carracher captures the defining moment as two netballers vie for the ball. With just enough shutter speed to keep the action sharp and retain the focus of the competing players' eyes but still showing movement in the ball, the image is summed up by the Weekly Advertiser's headline "INTENSE". A very strong sports action photo and wonderfully used by the publication, this is a worthy winner in the over 6000 sports photo category.

Highly Commended - Bairnsdale Advertiser - Grand final epic - Jake Le Maitre

In the Bairnsdale Advertiser, Jake Le Maitre captures a pivotal moment in a grand final cricket contest as a run out batsman lies sprawled on the pitch after his lunge for safety fell short. Five of his opponents celebrate over his prone body and outstretched bat.

This great sports photo not only captures a moment of great action but, according to the caption, also a turning point in the match - or a moment of "sports news" - to earn a Highly Commended.

Commended - Latrobe Valley Express - Splash and dash - Hayley Mills

Hayley Mills captures water skiing action in a razor sharp image which frames the skier with a plume of water. The Latrobe Valley Express also made a "big splash" with the photo on the front page. The photo and its usage in the layout combine to earn a Commended.

12 Victorian Country Press Association

Best Photo Study

2021 Awards

www.murrindindibusiness.com.au

Judge Bob Mackie

Alexandra Pr

-Photos by AR

Dane Fountain and Blake Coward, kitted up and re

Best Photo Study Award Under 2000

P

hoto study – across all circulation categories - is the mos of entries. Some entries are made up of single portraits, event while others are collections of photos from a news needs to be more clearly defined? That said, it’s good to see pub coverage of their local events with the winning entry in this sec photos to cover a rodeo from all angles.

Best Photo Study Award Over 6000

T

his section only attracted six entries but nevertheless included some very good photos. In the end, the top two places went to portraits; one cleverly staged shot at the sedate sport of croquet and the commended photo for a candid image where the photographer looked past the obvious and captured a warm moment on the sporting sidelines during a cold and dreary day.

Winner - The Weekly Advertiser - Croquet - Paul Carracher

A very nicely framed shot with vibrant colour reproduction. Photographer Paul Carracher's framing of an elderly croquet player draws readers' interest in the Weekly Advertiser. An original take on what could have been an ordinary photo opportunity.

Highly Commended - The Warragul & Drouin Gazette - Raining ideas - Michael Robinson

A candid photo of very wet young soccer players strategising on the sideline while the coach (presumably) takes note. Photographer Michael Robinson of The Warragul & Drouin Gazette saw beyond the obvious to capture a warm image on what looks to be a cold and dreary day. Well done and very worthy of Highly Commended in this section.

Winner - Alexandra Standard - Alexandra Pro Rodeo - Anne R

Anne Richey goes above and beyond to record the thrills and spill in the Alexandra Standard. The series of 18 photos goes beyond a sim and crowd scenes. Some of the photos look as if they were shot under appear sharp and well exposed. A good example of a photographer's s with the will to devote ample space to a popular local event - however Rodeo well attended" could have been written?

Highly Commended - Loddon Herald - Vanners head back to g

The very well done job of staging this photograph earns a Highly back to caravanning in the 1960s and is obviously the result of time a quote the description supplied with the entry: "Re-creating the classic car, the chairs and the fashions. Nostalgia on show!"

Commended - Yea Chronicle - World's greatest shave in Yea - A

The Yea Chronicle earns a Commended for a series of photos of t where youngsters donated their hair in memory of a grandfather who worthy effort to commemorate a worthy cause.

2021 Awards

Best Photo Study The Alexandra & Eildon Standard, Wednesday, March 10, 2021

23

SPORT

Victorian Country Press Association 13

Judge Bob Mackie

ro Rodeo

eady to go. -S

st difficult to judge because of the variety others are multiple photos of a single s event. Perhaps the criteria for this section blications devoting ample space to photo ction giving over two pages to feature 18

Richey

ls of the Alexandra Pro Rodeo to fill two pages mple collection of sports shots with its portraits r difficult, natural but dark lighting but still skills being used effectively by a newspaper r, surely a better headline than "Alexandra Pro

good old days - Chris Earl

Commended. The photograph takes readers and effort spent on staging the "props". To c camp setting from the 1960s - the van, the

Anne Richey

the World's Greatest Shave at a local school o died of cancer. The full page of photos is a

Best Photo Study Award 2000-6000

W

ith 18 entries this section featured a wide range of photos in terms of quality and quantity as well as an array of interpretations of what defines photo study. At least two entries would have been better suited to the news photo section. At the top end of the competition, the race was tight with only a few points separating the winner. The highest ranked photos – while varying greatly in their actual subject matter and technique – all displayed top photographic skills and original thinking on the part of the photographers.

Winner - The Riverine Herald - Trippin' the light fantastic - Steve Huntley

A series of beautifully lit photos; photographer Steve Huntley is painting with light in the Riverine Herald.

Highly Commended - Portland Observer - From little things, big things grow - Karen Hodge

A clever idea of re-enacting a photo of two students attending the first day of school from 13 years earlier now as school leavers earns a Highly Commended. Two photos make up the study on the front page; the 2021 photo taken by Karen Hodge re-enacts a 2008 front page photo by Ebony Yuill which shows two youngsters heading off to their first day of their Prep Year. The now 18-year-olds are depicted in the same street setting as in 2008. A clever headline as well: From little things, big things grow.

Highly Commended - Yarrawonga Chronicle - Bordering on madness - Jared Loughnan

Jared Loughnan's interesting study on traffic madness due to Covid on a Murray River border crossing earns the Yarrawonga Chronicle a Highly Commended in this study. The photographer's choice of cropping, angle and use of lighting all work to make a powerful but unusual study of the impacts of Covid with an image of vehicles backed up waiting to cross a bridge due to border checkpoint delays.

Commended - Pakenham Gazette - Waiting game - Stewart Chambers

Stewart Chambers captures a lovely moment in the Pakenham Gazette as a dog sitting under the table waits, hopefully, for the leftovers of a toastie. Great cropping draws the attention to the dog's pleading eyes. An image worthy of its commendation.

Commended - Wangaratta Chronicle - Boy in the bubble - Kieren Tilly

Kieren Tilly picks up a Commended for the Wangaratta Chronicle with an almost surrealistic image of a toddler in a water bubble at the local Splash Park. The photo was used to illustrate a story on an expected four-day heatwave and serves much better than the traditional fare of children running through a sprinkler or enjoying the local swimming pool. A beautifully taken photo with razor sharp focus, fine colours and nicely used by the paper with the overlaid caption not taking away from the image.

14 Victorian Country Press Association

2021 Awards

Best News Story

Judge Angela Carey 12 NORTH CENTRAL & WHITTLESEA REVIEW / THE FREE PRESS, Tuesday, November 24, 2020

Wednesday, 29 July, 2020

Pakenham

WHY THE

Sister’s murder inspires Phil Cleary to battle for justice 33 years on

YOUR COMMUNITY VOICE

CLASSIFIEDS 5734 3344 - T u e s d a y , M a y 1 8 , 2 0 2 1

Jake’s joy at community contribution

pakenham.starcommunity.com.au

$1.50 Inc. GST

Covid-19 strikes its smallest victim

Tributes flow for lion-hearted Bull

PAGE 2

PAGE 3

PAGE 5

PAGE 10

By Lauren Duffy

V

GET THE GAZETTE DELIVERED to your HOME

The face of Covid

By Mitchell Clarke

to be a good citizen and building on relationships in the community.

“This is just an interest to keep Jake on the road, to keep Jake in the community and being seen.”

Ms Casteldine said keeping busy and active had given Mr Castledine a new sense of purpose, and many new friends.

“Jake is happy, that’s all I care about,” she said, “He loves it if you’ve got a dog, a cat or a horse he can say hello to.”

Next month JDC Support will move out of Mr Castledine’s unit and into its own warehouse in South Morang, increasing collection capacity.

“We created a website … but we’ve just started a Facebook page called Team Jake,” Ms Castledine said.

“For us it’s just about trying to keep that momentum so people don’t forget about us.”

After Jake Castledine collects towels and blankets and donates the best to animal shelters and organisations supporting homeless people, he turns the offcuts into rags and handtowels for tradies.

ADVERTISEMENT

Rob Mitchell MP MEMBER FOR MCEWEN

Rob.Mitchell.MP@aph.gov.au | 5716 3000

AGED CARE

• Family owned and operated, as a stand-alone aged care facility.

12418633-LN21-19

• Offering a wide range of different allied and health services and professionals • Dedicated long serving employees

Mr Rojales was placed in an induced coma for two weeks and spent 72 days in hospital.

Picture: SUPPLIED is to put you into an induced coma’,“ he said.

“I didn’t really know what that meant and I wasn’t sure how long I’d be in that state, so I was just hoping for the best.”

For the next two weeks, Mr Rojales re-

mained in an induced coma. He had stopped breathing on his own, which meant the ventilator was working at 100 percent. Doctors thought he had 24 hours to live.

“I had no idea what was happening, I was in

dreamland and didn’t know the seriousness of what was going on,” he said.

He eventually woke on Easter Sunday to one of the nurses saying: “Hey Michael, your wife and many people are praying for you”. He didn’t fully understand why.

“Two weeks after I woke up, my wife told me exactly what happened. She said I almost died and the doctors told her to prepare for the worst and prepare to say goodbye to me,” he recalled.

While Mr Rojales fought for life, wife Rachel, was dealing with an unimaginable situation.

She had also contracted the virus, as did her mother, Gely Constanilla, who tragically passed away on 6 April, after being admitted to hospital on 31 March.

“I was in the midst of my induced coma when she passed away,” Mr Rojales explained.

“On the day she died, the nurse called my wife. My mother-in-law was feeling a bit distressed, so my wife spoke to her as the nurse held her hand.

“My wife said: ‘Mama, I love you, be strong.

Let me pray for you’. As soon as she said that, my mother-in-law peacefully passed away.

“One of the things that is very hard with corona, when people die, they don’t have their loved ones around them.”

Mr Rojales own doctors were getting prepared to tell Mrs Rojales that she’d lose her husband too, but called The Alfred hospital in search of a last minute solution.

“They said ‘we’ve done everything we can, but nothing’s changed’,” Mr Rojales recalled.

“The Alfred doctors suggested to lie me on my stomach, which sounds simple and also very weird, but amazingly I started to breathe again at 50 percent, straight away.

“As the days went by, I just got better and better. We’re people of faith, so I can only attribute breathing again to the prayers of my church.”

Throughout his hospital stint, Mr Rojales developed pneumonia, anaemia, acute kidney failure and nerve damage.

After 72 days, he was finally deemed well enough to be discharged from hospital on 5 June.

Continued page 6

Vicki Cleary pictured in Broadford in 1986.

Our priority is you

12454513-JW31-20

HE’S HERE FOR US

WH I TT LE S E A LO DG E • Affectionately known as “The Lodge”, by the local senior’s community, Whittlesea Lodge has been in service for 25 years.

A Berwick man who almost lost his life to Covid-19 has become the face of a statewide campaign to warn Victorians about the deadly virus.

Michael Rojales, 46, spent 72 days in hospital fighting coronavirus after first contracting it on the plane trip back from South Africa.

Mr Rojales arrived home on 19 March and tested positive four days later. Within two days, his condition worsened and he presented to hospital. By 29 March, he had been placed into an induced coma.

His inspiring story caught the attention of Premier Daniel Andrews, who shared his journey as part of the ‘Staying Apart Keeps Us Together’ campaign.

“I had a temperature and a mild cough and I thought I’d just go to the fever clinic to make sure I didn’t have corona ... I thought it was unlikely but I wanted peace of mind,” Mr Rojales told the Gazette.

He got tested at the Gibb Street facility and was advised the following day that he did, in fact, have the virus.

“I couldn’t believe what I heard. How could I possibly have corona?”

Mr Rojales isolated at one end of the house, away from his wife, daughter and mother in law, but as his symptoms progressively worsened, he was taken to hospital.

“I just had this non-stop cough which I’ve described as like drowning. It’s almost like when you’re underwater and you’re struggling for air. You basically can’t breathe and when you get out of the water, you gasp for air but you fall in again,” he said.

“It was a horrible cough and it went on for one to two minutes before I could get air, but somehow breathing tickled my throat and I started coughing again. That was just happening over and over - it was a vicious cycle.”

Mr Rojales was taken to Casey Hospital before being transferred to Monash Clayton. At this point, the virus was still fairly new in Australia.

“There were a lot of things still unknown.

Doctors said to me ‘for now, the best treatment

• We accept Respite Residents • Volunteers very welcome

To book a private tour, call Raj Kamboj, Facility Manager, or Sue Wilkins, Administration Mananger, on 9719 1600.

Wearing a mask will be mandatory and Social Distancing will be maintained.

30-32 Fir Street Whittesea, VIC 3757

12418950-FA22-19

from Monday to Thursday driving around the City of Whittlesea. They collect a range of items including pet supplies, children’s toys, toiletries, as well as new and old towels and blankets.

On Fridays and weekends, they sort, package and deliver.

Everything in good condition is donated to animal shelters; Epping charity From Us 2 You, which delivers meals and supplies to homeless people in Melbourne’s northern fringe; and to Big Group Hug, a community support group for families and vulnerable children.

With the help of his support workers, Mr Castledine then trims the older linens and towels into rags for tradies, which he delivers to work sites weekly for $5 a bag. The money raised is put towards petrol, and coffees for his staff.

JDC Support is funded by the National Disability Insurance Scheme, NDIS, providing more than $22 billion in funding a year to an estimated 500,000 Australians who have permanent and significant disability.

For many, the funding goes towards helping people connect with their communities and the added costs associated.

Ms Castledine said his situation was an example of the NDIS working, with the funding helping him achieve his goals.

“The way they fund you is based on their life goals, so for Jake his number one goal was to live independently away from mum and dad,” she said.

“His second big goal is to be in the community, with his staff, being seen

@PakenhamGazette

College cops a cruel cyber attack

12450927-NG24-20

By Aleksandra Bliszczyk A CHARITY started by a man living with autism, bipolar disorder and chronic, life-threatening epilepsy is thriving and about to expand its capabilities across the City of Whittlesea.

Jake Castledine, of Greensborough, spends his days collecting old towels from Doreen, Mernda and South Morang households.

During the past three years, the 29-year-old has collected kilograms of unwanted linen and donates it to animal shelters.

The charity started with a desire to help animals, when shelters were calling out for blankets amid bushfires in 2018 and 2019.

It has now become a closed-loop business – JDC Support – and not only supplies animal shelters, but homeless support organisations and vulnerable families across the City of Whittlesea.

Jake’s mother Janice Castledine said his not-for-profit ‘microbusiness’ had grown dramatically in the past 12 months.

The charity is unique in that it benefits Mr Castledine too, who doesn’t have the ability to work due to his medical conditions.

Ms Castledine said funding from the Department of Social Services allowed a home day program to be set up for him.

Mr Castledine suffered a stroke in his early 20s, leaving him with a limp and a shake in his hand.

He now requires constant care, but his activity within the community has ramped up.

Mr Castledine and his support workers spend every morning

/PakenhamBerwickGazette

Gumbuya celebrates major milestone

T (03) 9321 9704 | www.alil.com.au

Authorised by R Mitchell ALP, 57-59 High St, Wallan VIC 3756

icki Cleary was a young woman with her life ahead of her.

The kindergarten teacher had not long left a four-year relationship with a man by the name of Peter Keogh.

They had bought a house together in Broadford, close to where Vicki’s adoring parents had relocated to after raising their family in Coburg.

But Vicki knew in her heart of hearts that things were not right with Keogh or their relationship.

Aged 25, she made the brave decision to leave.

But on August 26, 1987, Vicki was murdered, just metres from the front gate of her workplace.

For her brother Phil Cleary, well-known in football circles and a former federal politician, it has sparked an ongoing crusade to raise awareness about violence against women, and the unjust treatment to female victims in the court system.

Keogh was acquitted of murder and found guilty of manslaughter on the grounds of provocation, which is when a person is considered to have committed a criminal act partly because of a preceding set of events that might cause a reasonable person to lose self-control.

The provocation law has now been abolished, thanks largely to a continued push by Phil and his family.

Following Vicki’s murder, the Cleary family’s experience of the court system was unjust to say the least.

Keogh was sentenced to eight years, with a minimum of six years. He was released after serving three years and 11 months.

Making matters worse, Keogh was not a saint - he was a man with a criminal history, including several assaults.

He later took his own life in 2001.

“I looked at the courts and I said this is a misogynist narrative, this is a misogynist discussion, this is a misogynist treatment of women,” Phil said.

“These laws are rooted in the idea that women are property. What? Vicki couldn’t leave this man without triggering provocation as a defence.”

Having never experienced violence against women, Vicki’s death not only came as a shock to the Cleary family but it broke their hearts.

Phil, who had studied at La Trobe University, was well-versed in women’s rights and feminism, but knew little about the evil side of misogyny.

In his working life as a secondary school teacher, he has worked alongside countless female teachers, and as he puts it ‘surrounded by women who were making their mark on the world’.

“In my world, women were a man’s equal,” he said.

“Vicki’s murder was heart-breaking, it was staggering – all I could feel was total disbelief.

“How could a man do this to a woman?”

Despite it being more than 33 years since Vicki’s murder, like many families who have lost a loved one to murder, the pain is still very real.

“Because I’ve been campaigning around Vicki’s life and death, that’s meant that I’ve re-visited her life again and again, with people who have known her, with my own memories and with my mum and dad and my siblings,” he said.

“You know – she could light up a room.

She was diminutive, she was bursting with energy. Anywhere she was she was lively, gracious, engaging. She wasn’t one to take the mickey out of anyone, she was one to laugh and enjoy the moment.”

One of the last times Phil saw his sister was after his 200th game for Coburg Football Club in June 1987 – Vicki was murdered just months later on August 26, 1987.

“I remember her that night. I described her as spreading love like confetti at a wedding, that’s how I thought of her,” he said.

“The Thursday before she was murdered, I was going off to training at Coburg and I had my daughters with me … we’re walking through the carpark at Coburg and their mum was going to pick them up. We were walking across the carpark and I hear this voice, ‘Phillip, Phillip!’ and it was Vicki.

“She ran over to us, she put her hands on her hips and she started talking to my daughters Sarah and Beth. She said was on the tram on Sydney Road and she saw us crossing so she jumped off the tram.

“I just remember standing there, watching her with my daughters and thinking ‘aren’t we lucky, what a beautiful sister’.

“And of course, what was critical was that she was free of Keogh. She had left him three months earlier.”

Phil said he hadn’t liked Keogh since he first met him, and had only seen him three or four times in Vicki and his four-year relationship.

“He kept away from me. He knew that if he spent time with me, I would soon gauge that he had history and form. He was playing his cards,” he said.

Maternal bond Vicki was Lorna and Ron Cleary’s first daughter after four boys.

“Her and mum were two peas in pod. They just loved each other’s company and just got on famously,” Phil said.

“When Vicki was born, it was so celebrated in the clan that Mum’s mother wrote this beautiful three-page letter. Mum’s mum Gladys sat down in Brunswick, minding me and the boys, and wrote this letter to mum. I’ve got the letter and it says, among other things, Gladys says ‘my heart is so full. I’ll have to wait until I see her (Vicki) and Lorna, I love you, you have been rewarded for your goodness’.”

After raising their children in Coburg, Lorna and Ron Cleary moved to Broadford where they lived for about 15 years.

Phil spoke about the pain that particularly his mum endured after Vicki’s death.

“Let’s face it, Mum was a changed woman after Vicki’s death. She went on but in the letters she wrote to Vicki posthumously she talked about how hard it was to go on, even having a great family, she said but I miss you Vicki,” he said.

“Nothing was going to bring Vicki back. But maybe if that court had treated her respectively, and treated Vicki’s rights respectively, it might have comforted Mum at least.”

The family found Mrs Cleary’s diaries following her death in 2011.

“The diaries are absolutely heartbreaking. They are not long letters, but every month, especially Vicki’s birthday and the day of her murder, mum wrote little notes to her daughter. And then we found a whole letter that she had written to Vicki. It’s heartbreaking,” he said.

Phil said he often talked to his siblings about what it must have been like for his parents to experience the murder of their child.

He reflected on his premierships with Coburg Football Club and how Vicki had inspired him in his life.

“As a brother, it was devastating and still is devastating, because I miss her. There are times when I think ‘God, how important she would be in my life’, what a shame she wasn’t with me in some of my big moments,” he said.

Best News Story Under 2000 Winner - Aleksandra Bliszczyk - Whittlesea Review - Jake’s joy

Best News Story 2000 - 6000 Winner - Mitchell Clarke - Pakenham Gazette - Face of Covid

Best News Story Over 6000 Winner - Lauren Duffy - North Central Review - 16 Days of Activism

Much has been written about the failings of the Commonwealth’s National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), so it makes for a pleasant change to see a case study that highlights its positive impact. Aleksandra’s story on NDIS client Jake Castledine is tightly written and impactful. It goes beyond facts and figures and presents the human side of a program that we don’t often see. Readers would be hard pushed to read this story and not be moved by Jake’s creativity and drive against the odds. The accompanying photo of a smiling Jake has been cleverly used to draw the reader into the story to find out more. It is a story of hope in a time when hope was needed most.

At a time when the risk of Covid news fatigue is very real, Mitchell Clarke gave readers a story they couldn’t look past. This story elevates the pandemic to a new level in the eyes of the reader, giving a startling insight into the impact of the virus on one of their own. Only the most heartless of readers would not be moved by the plight of this local family. The front page photo is used to great effect to draw the reader into a story that is well crafted and keeps the attention to the very last word. There is no doubt this story would have pushed vaccination procrastinators straight to their nearest medical centre. This one story is worth 100 daily press conferences in terms of moving the community to action.

Phil Cleary's story of activism is a well-told one.

Lauren has taken that story and given it a fresh life with intimate details and photos that further explore the Cleary family’s experience of the violent death of their daughter and sister, Vicki. Lauren presents the story with a flowing narrative that keeps the reader engaged.

The accompanying photo addsgreat value to the piece to ensure Vicki is remembered as a person, rather than just a name or statistic. Violence against women is a scourge that some readers will shy away from. This story presents the issue in a relatable and readable way, helping to maintain a spotlight on the need for action.

Mitchell Clarke, left

Aleksandra Bliszczyk

L

Lauren Duffy

ocal journalists continued to deliver during the past 12 months in what was another uncertain and unsettling year for the communities they serve. As you would expect, entries submitted covered the ongoing impacts of the pandemic, but also looked beyond the virus to present stories that show that life goes on and hope for a normal future remains. As in past years, the quality of entries was high and breadth of topics they covered was broad, making judging both a pleasure and a challenge.

The winners of this year’s awards have been selected primarily because they went beyond what the reader expected. They surprised, entertained, educated and moved the reader - all key elements of quality local journalism. All entrants are to be commended for their commitment to their work and communities.

2021 Awards

TAC Award for Road Safety Families urged to stay social as life returns to normal

Continued from Front Page

Local Highway Patrol Acting Sergeant Andrew Henderson is warning drivers to take care on gravel roads following two serious accidents within eight days in the region.

110521 18

Crashes spark gravel road safety message

CHRISTIE HARRISON

Local police will be stepping up road safety for the rest of the month after two people were airlifted to hospital in separate crashes on gravel roads recently.

Both incidents occurred between April 26 and May 5 and Maryborough Police Acting Sergeant Peter Clarke said seeing two collisions in similar conditions resulting in serious injuries is concerning.

“We’ve had two single car crashes in eight days on unsealed roads in the Maryborough area, and on both occasions the driver has been air lifted to Melbourne,” he said.

“A large proportion of the roads around Central Goldfields are unsealed, and drivers need to take care on these roads.”

On April 26, a 54-year-old Kangaroo Flat woman was airlifted to hospital in a critical condition after suffering head and spine injuries during a single-vehicle crash in Timor.

The accident occurred at around 12.30 pm on Norwood Road, near the Longs Road intersection in Timor.

At the time, police noted inexperience driving on gravel roads

appeared to have contributed to the crash.

The second incident occurred in the afternoon on May 4 when a truck carrying three occupants struck a tree in Betley.

The truck was travelling along Betley Road at the time of the crash and the driver, an Avoca man in his 30s, was ejected from the vehicle during the accident and transported to a Melbourne hospital via air ambulance in a serious but stable condition.

One of the passengers, a woman in her 20s, was taken to Bendigo Hospital while the other passenger, a man in his 30s, was assessed at the scene.

Act Sgt Clarke said following the crashes, police will be focusing on road safety.

“Police are going to be stepping up their focus on road safety for the remainder of the month,” he said.

“I’m not suggesting that either of the collisions were caused by hooning, but I would encourage anyone who lives on a dirt road and sees a car driving too fast and erratically to contact Crimestoppers (1800 333 000) anonymously.”

Highway Patrol Acting Sergeant Andrew Henderson echoed Act Sgt

FROM THE BURKE & WILLS RANGE

3 QUARTER LENGTH OILSKIN COATS $

155

DOG OILSKIN COAT Range of sizes

5995

$

OILSKIN VESTS $ 95

89

FULL LENGTH OILSKIN COATS $ 95

169

LYAL EALES STORES 29 MARYBOROUGH/DUNOLLY RD. PH: 5461-4222 178 HIGH ST, MARYBOROUGH. PH: 5461-1911

Clarke’s safety message and said while crashes on gravel roads aren’t a major local issue, drivers still need to be vigilant and that inexperience plays a large part in incidents.

“While our awareness of crashes on gravel roads has been heightened due to the recent incidents, I wouldn’t say it’s overrepresented,” he said.

“Gravel roads are unforgiving, if you make a mistake you’re in trouble straight away whereas on bitumen there’s some leeway to gain traction.

It’s like skating on ice if you lose traction on gravel, it’s hard to get the vehicle back.

“Some people probably do take some risks on dirt roads and some use them to avoid the main roads, and they probably become complacent because there isn’t much traffic out there.

“But inexperience of the conditions is a big factor. Drivers can be unfamiliar with those roads and there’s other factors like farmers are using them to move stock and machinery.

“People just need to be vigilant and drive to the conditions of the road. Try and stick to the worn parts of the road and if you encounter traffic slow down and pull over.”

During Victoria’s second wave of the virus, Melbourne areas entered stage four restrictions on August 2, seeing students return to online learning and childcares closed, preventing people from visiting each other and limiting them from travelling beyond five kilometres from their address.

Regional areas entered stage three lockdown from August 5 with similar restrictions to Melbourne, including the introduction of mandatory face masks and a ban on most travelling. Restrictions didn’t begin easing in Victoria until September 13.

The report found children who experienced the second lockdown were most affected (92 percent) by not seeing close family members or friends compared to those who weren’t (41 percent).

Changes to routine also impacted children in the second lockdown (69 percent) compared to those who weren’t (21 percent).

Ms Noonan said disrupted education and socialising were two of the biggest issues she found in local families.

“In terms of the biggest impacts of lockdown, for us parents reported they were worried about disruptions to their child’s education,” she said.

“While local schools did an amazing job transitioning to online learning, parents found it very difficult to implement home schooling, and then care for young children at the same time.

“There was also an increase in social isolation — not being able to see family and friends, go to weekend sport events and playgroups which brought additional pressure to families in their every day life.

“For example, following lockdown we saw an increase in referrals to our sleep and settling program to provide additional support in that area.”

For one to five-year-olds, Ms Noonan said the social interaction that may have been missed during the lockdowns is key to childrens’ development.

“It’s incredibly valuable, it’s setting the foundation for later in life and it’s really important for optimal growth and development in those early years,” she said.

“Social connection and interaction is really complementary to childrens’ language and gross motor skills. As things return to normal and we can attend child-care, playgroups, parents groups, birthday parties and other social events, families have embraced that and realised how much they missed it and took it for granted.”

The report identified educators play a crucial role in supporting children during disruptive periods like the pandemic, and Ms Noonan said maternal and child health staff have been working to keep families connected.

“We’ve linked in and advocated for local families to be connected and supported in a variety of platforms whether it be first parents group or supported playgroup,” she said.

“There’s a lot of online alternatives now so we’re really encouraging families to embrace that and be connected — although nothing beats face-to-face interaction, that’s probably what families enjoy the most.”

Ms Noonan said while it’s hard to predict at this early stage what the long term effects of the pandemic will be on young children, if parents are concerned about their child’s mental health or development, there is support available.

“If there’s any acute effects there’s certainly things you can implement that would help identify, resolve and treat those issues but I don’t know if anyone really knows the long term impacts of the lockdowns and COVID yet because it hasn’t been very long,” she said.

“There’s face-to-face, online telephone support available if parents are concerned.

“Seeing your local maternal child and health service, GP, there’s also the Raising Children Network online or Parentline which is a telephone support service.”

For more support visit https://raisingchildren.net.au or call Parentline Victoria on 13 22 89.

“Great food, Great mood” Wine bar • Café • Provedore

Pensioner Lunches Every Thursday $16.50 Bookings required

MADAM CHI CHI

Cnr Nolan & Napier sts, Maryborough. 0401 929 727

ON SPECIAL this week...

Corned Silverside

$16.99kg

Chicken Thigh Fillets

$14.99

Pork Cutlets

$22.99kg

kg

Like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram to keep up to date with all our latest specials!

Contactless home delivery now available to Maryborough and surrounding areas.

Phone orders welcome.

K&J Bartlett Wattle City Meats 85 Napier Street Maryborough

5460 4637

info@wattlecitymeats.com.au

Mon - Fri 9 am - 5.30 pm; Sat 9 am - 4 pm, Sun 10 am - 3 pm

www.maryboroughbusiness.com.au

The Maryborough Advertiser — Tuesday, May 11, 2021 — Page 3

Victorian Country Press Association 15

Judge Samantha Cockfield TAC Award for Road Safety

T

he TAC judges were pleased to see local newspapers again going the extra mile in their reporting, to understand local road safety issues and to use local voices and data to explore solutions and drive home the messages. In addition, many newspapers are highlighting the shared community responsibility for road safety.

Christie Harrison

Winner - The Maryborough District Advertiser - Disappointed - Christie Harrison

The judges have chosen the Maryborough District Advertiser's article Disappointed by Christie Harrison as this year's winner of the TAC Award for Road Safety Reporting. The article puts a detailed local lens on the 2020 lives lost data and explores the road safety issues at play on Central Goldfields roads. The article is a great example of localising broader issues and using data, insights and expert commentary to reinforce the message for people to drive safely. In a time of Covid when Victoria experienced the lowest road toll in years, Christie’s reporting was a standout to the judges.

Highly Commended - Castlemaine Mail - Disastrous accident fears - Eve Lamb

The judges highly commend the Castlemaine Mail’s article Disastrous accident fears by Eve Lamb. The article is an excellent example of elevating a community push for safer local roads by highlighting a tangible issue in speed, which remains one of the most prevalent factors in road trauma. Improving road safety at a local level is reliant on community ownership of the issues, and articles like this are an important tool in garnering positive sentiment towards the idea of lowering speed limits where appropriate.

Commended - The North Central Review - Road safety push - Colin MacGillivray

The judges commend The North Central Review's article Road safety push by Colin MacGillivray. National Road Safety Week is an important time to humanise road trauma and share stories in a bid to change behaviour. The author has done exactly that, with an engaging article that highlights the story of a local road trauma survivor, as well as the insights of a local RTSSV coordinator, and makes use of relevant road trauma statistics.

16 Victorian Country Press Association

2021 Awards

Best Sports Story

Judge Patrick Elligett

Best Sports Story Under 2000

Best Sports Story 2000-6000

Best Sports Story Over 6000

M

T

P

Winner - Hamilton Spectator - Gebre pushes past boundary - Adam Hill

Winner - Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly - Jovic steps up for Collingwood - Tara Murray

ost reporters in this category demonstrated a good understanding of basics like story structure and the quality of the photography was commendable throughout. Time constraints in small newsrooms are such that most of these stories were based around a single interview or match report, but many would have benefited from the inclusion of extra voices, different perspectives, or some extra research to add another layer of value for the reader. Some of the reporters in this category are clearly good enough writers to be able to get more creative with the storytelling devices they use to better convey the emotion of a situation. They should be encouraged to try new things. Overall, an excellent standard of sports reporting from the smaller papers.

Winner - Myrtleford Times - Dom's AFL dream comes true - James Robinson

A classic piece of sports newswriting. The journalist, James Robinson, certainly knows his fundamentals.

Clean copy, good structure and a range of voices made reading this story easy and enjoyable. The journalist shows that being informative and being succinct are not mutually exclusive skills. Factoring in its good presentation, it's hard to find fault with this entry.

Highly Commended - The Seymour Telegraph - Stones living the dream - Meg Saultry

This story had the liveliest introduction of any of the entries in this category. An enjoyable read, complemented by two strong photos. Some additional voices in the copy would have kept the reader gripped throughout.

Page 28 - Wednesday, December 16, 2020

MERLO

MERLO (nee Gasparin), Palmira.

Of Myrtleford.

Passed away peacefully with family by her side on December 12, 2020.

Aged 91 years.

Beloved wife of Angelo (dec).

A gentle and beautiful woman whose faith kept her strong throughout her earthly life.

Dearly loved and adored mother and mother-in-law of Paolo and Francesca, Ivana, Federico and Karen, Gregorio and Christine.

Very loving Nonna of Monica, Talea and Jason, Eric and Lauren, Jaiden, Ebony and Alexander.

Cherished Biz Nonna of Stella, Liam, Ethen and Hunter, Nate, Lola and Cruz.

Requiem mass for the repose of the soul of Mrs Palmira Merlo will be offered at St Mary’s Catholic Church, Lawrence Street, Myrtleford on Monday, December 21, 2020 commencing at 11.15am.

At the conclusion of mass interment will take place at Myrtleford Lawn Cemetery.

Rosary will be recited at 11am prior to mass.

Riposi in pace.

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Regional Publications Ask about networking your classified advert into our regional publications:

03 5752 2995 Now offering our personalised funeral services to Myrtleford, Alpine and Wangaratta communities from our new location at

166 Myrtle St, Myrtleford

By willson mack wmack@ nemedia.com.au

ergray for a good knock of 41 off 59 rocks to get the Saints to 4/72.

Kirkwood and Brad Taylor’s partnership of 61 would prove to be the turning point in Bethanga’s innings.

Kirkwood was next to go off the back of some Nick Iaria magic for 52 off 49 balls which included three boundaries and a six.

Taylor was dismissed by Patrick Dodd soon after for 20 which would bring Ryan Taylor (36) and Brodie Sirl (25) to the crease.

The duo’s partnership of 70 would get their side to a total of 6/203 off 40 overs.

Silva’s figures of 2/32 off eight overs were the best of the Mount Beauty bowlers.

Saville and Greg McLennan

would once again open the batting for the Power, however, McLennan was soon out for just four off some Kristen Jahne bowling.

Patrick Dodd would accompany Saville at the crease and the pair would get the Power off to the start they needed.

A partnership of 45 before Saville was dismissed for 13 would have Mount Beauty in a good position at 2/50.

However, Dodd would fall just after Saville for a well-made 36 off 42 balls which included five boundaries to have his side at 3/56.

Will Betheras and Dananja Madushanka were next in and gelled from the word go.

A game saving partnership of 57 would get the Power to 4/113 before Madushanka was out off Robinson for 39 off 38 rocks.

Betheras would kick on with Ashan Ranaweera and steer the ship home with 36 not out and 63 not out to chase the total just four wickets down with 3.3 overs left to spare.

5721 5060

Euroa Gazette Published Wednesday Booking deadline: 3pm Monday

John & Chris Haddrick All Hours

Phone:

97A Myrtle Street, Myrtleford 3737

(03) 5723 0101

share your

milestones MYRTLEFORD

PHONE 5723 0101 ______________classifieds@nemedia.com.au Emailyouradvert

engagements

birthdays

A moving tribute to a special character. An engaging read even for those who didn't know him. Many people would know someone like Cambo and they would have finished this story thinking of them. Another strong entry of the high standard one has come to expect from the Gazette.

A compelling interview, with stunning photos to match. The reporter did an excellent job balancing the grim nature of the topic with the uplifting and inspirational message the subject wanted to convey.

Sensitively reported, well written and well presented.

North East Farmer Published monthly Booking deadline: 2nd Friday of month

ALL HOURS

Proud Member of Australian Funeral Directors Association

Highly Commended - Pakenham Berwick Gazette - A lion-hearted bull - Russell Bennett

Highly Commended - Colac Herald - Dad's new lease on life - Ben Martin

Mansfield Courier Published Wednesday Booking deadline: 12 noon Monday

A Funeral experience…

births

MOUNT Beauty A grade cricketers bounced back from their loss against Barnawartha Chiltern with a solid win over Bethanga at home on the weekend.

Bethanga won the toss and elected to bat on the Mount Beauty pitch.

Jarrod Scammell and Luke Rafferty were first in to bat for the Saints but didn’t last long.

Both Scammell (4) and Rafferty (7) were dismissed the exact same way, caught by Daniel Saville off the back of Priyankara Silva’s bowling.

At 2/13 it was a promising start for the Power.

Wicket-keeper batsman Trent Sirl was next in, along with Jack Robinson and the pair tried their best to get Bethanga back in the game.

However, Sirl was soon knocked over by Ethan Brown for a patient six off 20 balls.

Luke Kirkwood would join Robinson at the crease and the duo would put on a 35 run partnership before Robinson was out to Anthony Brew-

Ovens & Murray Advertiser Published Friday Booking deadline: 3pm Wednesday

Glenn & Emma Bouchier

weddings

Mount Beauty topple Bethanga cricketers

Wangaratta Chroncile Published Monday, Wednesday and Friday Booking deadline: 2.30pm the day prior to publication

www.conwayfuneralhome.com.au

5752 1525

This story was a standout among this year's entrants. Looking beyond the usual sports page fare of match reports, tributes and milestones, this article sets out to tell a story about the role community sport plays in bringing people together. What a character the main subject is. He reminds me of an intelligent Forrest Gump who just won't stop running.

Coupled with some precise sports photography on a layout that let both the picture and the copy shine, this story was visually striking, fun and eminently readable.

www.myrtlefordtimes.com.au

FUNERALS

DEATH NOTICES

95 Mason Street, Wangaratta www.masonpark.com.au

his was the standout category this year across all the judging criteria, with the best entries receiving the highest marks of any category. Some fabulous interviews demonstrated reporters' strong connections with the sporting community and excellent knowledge of the subject matter. The standard of writing in this category was mostly superior to entrants from larger papers. Using playful headlines, copy and photos to tell stories about colourful characters and exciting games is a must in good sports writing and the reporters and editors in this category clearly demonstrated their abilities in that department. Entries in this category were also more likely to go beyond the standard fare of match reports and injury news and delve deeper into the important place sport holds in regional communities. Photography was of a consistently high standard and the journalism was handled with care by the papers' production staff.

ON TOP OF THE WORLD: Myrtleford’s Dominic Bedendo has been signed to the AFL’s Western Bulldogs.

PHOTO: James Robinson

Dom’s AFL dream comes true

■ From back page DOMINIC Bedendo is known for his athleticism, as well as his ability in the air and his endurance.

AFL talent ambassador Kevin Sheehan described the young gun.

“He’s a wingman who has a real x-factor with his aerial skills but also has very good endurance and agility,” he said.

“He had a promising bottom aged year with the Murray Bushrangers in the NAB League,

playing nine matches and averaging 10.4 disposals and started trials this year with a 21-disposal game against the Bendigo Pioneers before shutdown.

“He was impressive at the Victorian National Combine held in Bendigo with a 99cm running vertical jump which is elite, along with a sharp 2.95 seconds for the 20 metres.”

Draft experts from News Corp, Jordan Pinto and Dan Batten, said Bedendo’s Combine results

were no surprise to those who’ve watched him closely.

“His feat came as no surprise to those who have watched him play, able to stand on top of heads in packs, where his fantastic contested marking comes to the fore,” they said.

“He has drawn comparison to Collingwood high-flyer Jeremy Howe and was set to play as an intercept defender in 2020, having played predominantly up forward for the Bushrangers last year.”

Commended - Colac Herald - Roo rides highs and lows to 300 - Ben Martin

A compelling story with a heart-rending introduction. It is obvious the journalist has put considerable thought into this story. The copy is well constructed and polished.

olished is the word that comes to mind when attempting to summarise this category.

These entries were mostly well displayed, with great pics and engaging layouts. Headlines were strongest in this category, with a few that spoke nicely to the photo and a couple of real gems that captured the essence of the story as well. The standard of copy was mixed. There were some excellent stories waiting to be told here that were missing something: an extra phone call, a sense of occasion, one more question about that key moment, some extra context. Most reporters in this category displayed a strong grasp of the basics and they clearly have a nose for an excellent story.

Editors should be encouraging them to "go big" when they are onto a good yarn. One tip for next year: I was surprised by the lack of graphics in this category. Not a table, scorecard, head-to-head or illustration in sight.

One of two excellent entries from this journalist. Much like the netballer she is writing about, this piece from Tara Murray shows just how much impact you can have when the basics are well executed. Helped by a simple, active headline that speaks to the excellent piece of sports photography, all the elements combine to create an enticing prospect for the reader. The story itself is simple but engaging and the reporter has done well to tell the story of a sportsperson who appears to be something of an accidental star.

Highly Commended - The Weekly Advertiser - Gary Bird – Still at the wicket - Dean Lawson

The use of a fiction and fantasy as a device to connect with the reader is used to great effect in this story. The article makes a fitting tribute to a person full of life despite facing death. Gary's attitude is so inspirational that I might go back and read the story a fourth time...

Commended - South Gippsland Sentinel Times - Insane Zane boots three in Gippy debut - Sam Watson

Lively copy, a catchy headline and plenty of detail for sports fans on the Duursma family's exploits. A well executed story from the "rising star" genre.

Commended - Brimbank & Northwest Star Weekly - Vasiljevic returns home - Tara Murray

Another good team effort from the Star crew, with well-chosen photography and slick layouts giving the story every chance to attract readers.

2021 Awards

Best Editorial Video

Victorian Country Press Association 17

Judge Peter Dredge

Best Editorial Video Award (open)

V

Emma Ballingall and Mural magic

ery encouraging to see the diverse ways video is being used and all entrants demonstrated solid shooting skills. Video needs to be a part of every content conversation and with more examples such as these, it will be. All digital mastheads should be striving for more developed video stories to engage wider audiences. Congratulations to all entrants.

Winner - The Warragul & Drouin Gazette - Mural magic - Emma Ballingall

Extremely well planned and executed. The inclusion of both reporter piece to camera and talent interviews was a standout. Excellent camera coverage of the subject.

Subject selection was strategic - something audiences would drive past and wonder about. This story answered their questions. Great work.

Highly Commended - Pakenham-Berwick Gazette - Incredible collection - Gabriella Payne

Excellent use of video format. Leveraging existing visual assets to draw audience Commended - The Local engagement. Well written voice over. Good call to action for full story click through. - Richard Payne and augmented reality art - Kyle Barnes Great subject matter. Nice informal style. Possibly a little too long, could have Not sure you need credits on screen for such a short piece. An interview (even over the phone) with family or auction house might have added that bit more. Well done. come down in editing. The first augmented reality shots were almost 3mins in.

Opening with a few shots would have been a great hook. Also rather than using a camera to film the phone showing the augmented footage - could have done a screen Commended - South Gippsland Sentinel Times record on the mobile device running the app. Story and talent identification excellent.

- Football video - Michael Giles Great on the spot coverage of exciting sporting moment. And excellent audience (Not a fan of the auto panning camera tech). Don't forget music. engagement. To create a more complete video story the producers could have used text on screen, voice over, or a screen call to action. Publisher logos/urls are always important to include. Well done.

Best Social Media Campaign Best Social Media Campaign

I

n this category I was looking for campaigns that got the community to engage with both the publisher and each other. A great social media campaign will drive readers back to the newspaper and the publisher's website as well as generating ongoing content from the community response.

A good campaign will also reinforce the position of the publication as the key source of credible and engaging information on social platforms.

Winner - The Warragul & Drouin Gazette - Covid crisis Pictured from left, editor Carolyn Turner and journalists Yvette Brand and Emma Ballingall

This is an excellent use of Facebook to provide timely and relevant news to the local audience. Engagement with the campaign is strong and a high number of shares has increased the opportunity to reach new audiences.

The campaign is well signposted and creates a consistent home for Covid content that the audience can easily access.

Highly Commended - South Gippsland Sentinel Times - Springtime on the farm - Sentinel Times team

A very well executed campaign. Great use of imagery and clear communication of the campaign. Excellent use of the platform and excellent community interaction.

The feedback from the community is great, the content is shareable and encourages repeat visits to the page. I particularly like how the campaign builds engaging content for The Sentinel Times.

Commended - Colac Herald - Let's get back to none - Jessica Perkins

This is a great use of the platform for a highly topical and relevant campaign. The messaging is clear and the use of local identities increases interest and engagement.

Judge Peter Clark

18 Victorian Country Press Association

2021 Awards

Best Print Advertisement

Judge Darren Robinson

Best Print Advertisement Under 2000

Best Print Advertisement 2000-6000

Best Print Advertisement Over 6000

O

O

O

verall, the quality of ads was of a very verall, the quality of entries was fantastic. high standard. Some consideration should In some cases, I was wanting more body be given to the headline (either missing, copy and in the absence of a call to action, or lacking effectiveness), absence of body copy the reader simply turns the page. Many entries and weak call to action. All of these elements are focus on the image however, some consideration critical in an effective advertisement. also needs to go towards other vital elements including body copy. These inclusions would help Winner - Lakes Post - Eager + Partners to improve the strength of the advertisement.

This is a fantastic example of a well-planned advertisement. The colourful image instantly gets your attention and the curiosity of the simple headline helps to draw the reader in. Fonts are well balanced and the body copy is sufficient. A solution-based advertisement that is also very attractive, well done.

Winner - Mansfield Courier - Delatite Veterinary

Highly Commended - Snowy River Mail - East Gippsland Solar

This ad instantly connects with prospects with the headline and support image. The icons are also useful in supporting the body copy - which is the real winner of this advert. East Gippsland Solar should be very pleased with the execution.

Commended - Lakes Post - Just Books

Ads with humour should always be carefully considered. But when used appropriately, it can help to effectively engage the reader. The team at Lakes Post have turned this into a fun and lively advertisement.

The adjoining book review helps to add value.

Highly Commended - Wangaratta Chronicle - North East Ear Care

Great headline, fantastic image, clean layout... but a stronger call to action would have helped to complete this advert. Perhaps speaking of the benefits of their wax removal service would have helped to provide additional conviction.

Highly Commended - The Local - Bingo at the Bowlo

The clever creative helps to cut through instantly.

A great blend of colours helps to separate important details but the over-use of uppercase type reduces comprehension in some areas. Uppercase can be used effectively but over-use is undesirable.

Commended - Snowy River Mail - Eyecare Plus

The image helps to communicate well with the reader and the lady's finger is helping to guide the eye into the core message whilst the obvious signal to her watch. A simple call to action also helps to create urgency.

Commended - The Maryborough District Advertiser - Winter heating M515632

Juggling too much?

I love this ad. It’s simple and communicates so effectively. The body copy is crafted so well that it provides enough information without cluttering the ad. The team at Mansfield Courier have also localised the ad with what appears to be staff photos - this is an important inclusion to help to sell the personalised service.

This is a good ad that could have easily been a great ad. All of the elements are there but not in the correct order. At first, it is difficult to know where to look – there’s so much happening. As a reader, we are taught to read top to bottom, left to right. As such, we need to follow this discipline when working on the layout.

verall, the quality of entries was of a significant standard. Some adverts were lacking body copy and a call to action.

Without these two critical elements, the reader will be left with more questions than answers.

Although, the quality of images across the entries was decent. As we become more visual, there’s greater emphasis on the inclusion of quality graphics & images. There’s really no excuse to use below-average materials any more.

Winner - The Gazette - Select Office Supplies

This is a fantastic advertisement. The colours communicate well with the reader and the theme of “keeping Gippsland safe” helps to add emotion into a retail-style advert. The free delivery helps to support the offer. All of the essential ingredients are proudly on display. Congratulations to the team at The Gazette!

Highly Commended - Midland Express - Railway Hotel

As the saying goes, “A picture tells a thousand words” - the hero image on display here helps to transport the reader to a warmer, cosy destination. The allure of the headline and supporting body copy also helps to add conviction. The layout is clean and well thought out.

Commended - The Weekly Advertiser - Horsham Physiotherapy & Podiatry

The team at The Weekly Advertiser have created a highly effective advertisement that a lot of readers could relate to. The hero image helps to cut through the important body copy and there’s plenty of white space to rest the eye. Perhaps a small photo of Shaun and the team would have helped to connect the message and strengthen the ad.

We’re doing our bit to keep Gippsland safe with these

SUPER

SPECIALS! DISPOSABLE FACE MASK PACK OF 50

NORTHFORK HAND SANITISING GEL ALOE FRAGRANCE 500ML

Don’t be a clown and add tax returns to your list!

Contact our CPA practice for your best 2021 tax result • Online Checklists • Online Bookings • After Hours Appointments

WAS $8

NOW 74 Main Street, Bairnsdale Ph: 5152 3317

$2

www.eager.com.au | info@eager.com.au Eager and Partners is a CPA Practice

Cleanlink multi-purpose wipes 600mm x 600mm Blue.

Commercial grade.

PACK OF 20

Some things are not meant to be!

WAS $10.99

NOW

BROTHER A3 Colour Inkjet Multi-Function Printer MFC-J5730DW

If your dog or cat hasn’t been de-sexed, it’s time. You’ll love our special price and they’ll still love you in the morning.

Mansfield’s largest, friendly vet team

WAS $369

$299

SAVE $70

FREE

LOCAL HOME & OFFICE DELIVERY FOR ORDERS OVER $55

DELATITE ETERINARY SERVICES MANSFIELD

Dr. Anna Manning

BVetMed

H06360

On call 24 hours

265 Mt Buller Road MANSFIELD

Sanitiser Surface Spray 500ml 75% Alcohol

$9 90

$2

SAVE $8.99

It’s de-sexing season

(03) 5779 1754

$15

CLICK AND COLLECT AVAILABLE

SAVE $6

Shop 1/271 Esplanade, Lakes Entrance Ph: 5155 5555

WARRAGUL AND DROUIN GAZETTE June 1 2021 Page 27

2021 Awards

Best Advertising Feature

Victorian Country Press Association 19

Judge Greg Watson

Best Advertising Feature Under 2000

Best Advertising Feature 2000-6000

Best Advertising Feature Over 6000

Winner - Myrtleford Times/Alpine Observor - Be Loyal, Buy Local feature wrap shared feature

Winner - Sunraysia Daily - 100 years - the stories that shaped Sunraysia

Winner - South Gippsland Sentinel Times - Discover Summer

A 20-page shared feature aimed straight at supporting local businesses during the second round of Stage 3 Covid-19 restrictions. It also highlighted the “Buy from Bright and Surrounds” e-commerce store and carried commercial editorial providing an insight into the businesses who provided strong advertising support.

The Alpine Shire Council and Myrtleford and Bright Chambers of Commerce also got behind the buy local push. A good community initiative.

Highly Commended - Nhill Free Press & Kaniva Times - Education Week

An excellent 6-page feature focusing on local education opportunities, local school students and students' boarding options for a small regional community scored highly for the Nhill Free Press & Kaniva Times. The editorial was engaging and informative - overall an impressive feature considering the comparative size of the community.

Highly Commended - Loddon Herald - Volunteers' Week

Features don’t have to be huge to engage the reader on a key topic and promote worthwhile community activities. The Loddon Herald’s 3-page feature on National Volunteers' Week featured a number of local organisations and highlighted the role the organisations and their members play in the local community.

Commended - Snowy River Mail - Christmas wishes

Features are generally produced to capitalise on revenue opportunities and promote business. And whilst the Snowy River Mail’s solid set Christmas Wishes 2020 didn’t score for editorial, it did win on the revenue front, and readers would certainly not have missed the 35 businesses’ quarter page messages.

I’ve seen a lot of newspaper centenary features over many years, but the Sunraysia Daily’s impressive “100 years - the stories that shaped Sunraysia” is the best I have seen – a 120-page classy presentation, outstanding editorial focused on the news of the past 100 years with just the right amount of reflection on the newspaper’s history itself. The tabloid feature was complemented by a centenary book. Congratulations to all involved for what was obviously a labour of love produced during a very testing time.

Highly Commended - The Maryborough District Advertiser - Building and renovation

Times tourism feature of 60-pages filled with great insights into discovering the South Gippsland and Bass Coast very narrowly scored ahead of strong competition in this category. The support of advertising from 107 businesses and informative editorial highlighting the best holiday and touring attractions combined in an easy-to-read presentation undoubtedly proved a great read as well as a handy guide.

Highly Commended - The Weekly Advertiser - AgLife Digital

The cancellation of the major Wimmera Machinery Field Days called for innovation, and full marks to The The Maryborough District Advertiser’s 28-page Weekly Advertiser for developing the AgLife Digital Building and renovation feature scored ahead of other promotion for businesses across the region to stage with strong contenders because it impressively carried 51 its own in-store special exhibition and demonstration businesses’ advertisements reaching across all sections of days. An impressive 32-page well supported newspaper building and requirements for the DIYer or professional. feature promoted the businesses’ events, and was Engaging feature editorial and relaxed layout led readers complemented with development of an AgLife into the feature’s comprehensive offering. online platform providing advertisers with virtual opportunities. A great initiative.

Highly Commended - The Shepparton Adviser - In hospitality feature

The Shepparton Adviser’s 12-page In hospitality feature clearly demonstrates how to utilise supplier cooperative advertising support to produce a classy and substantial feature for a local business. Editorial focused on the businesses’ personalities, strengthening the bond between customers and staff, and providing a welcoming invitation to potential new customers.

Commended - The Maryborough District Advertiser - Eat, drink & be merry

It’s always a challenge to find a fresh idea and presentation for Christmas and dining - especially during the challenges of Covid...but full marks to The Maryborough District Advertiser for the “Eat, drink and be merry” 12-pages of classy commercial editorial-style review of Maryborough’s dining options under Covid guidelines. A wonderful concept, great design and easy to read engaging content well worthy of recognition in this award.

Commended - Colac Herald - Season 2021

A perennial masterpiece – the Colac Herald’s annual football and netball 36-page feature is a very deserving place-getter. The significant editorial contribution provides a most comprehensive and information-packed insight into the region's sporting clubs, key players and personalities which would have been avidly devoured by family, friends and supporters alike.

Highly Commended - Surf Coast Times - West Coast Business Park

The Surf Coast Times provided a clear focus on the growing number of businesses locating in Torquay’s West Coast Business Park in an attractive 26-page feature highlighted by quality advertising and comprehensive editorial covering 21 diverse business and professional operations.

Commended - East Gippsland News - 2021 Snow feature

The East Gippsland News focused on the start of winter, the Mt Hotham ski playfields and the outstanding and diverse businesses in the Bairnsdale region in a classy 24-page feature. Among the 45 business advertisements was a double page “Food Mood” featuring 13 of the region's dining venues.

Appealing layout and eye-catching images.

Commended - The Warragul & Drouin Gazette - Hay & silage

Achieving a clearly focused single topic feature can be a challenge, but full marks to The Warragul & Drouin Gazette for its Hay and silage feature. Packed with strong advertising support from 24 specialist equipment suppliers, this feature provided a timely and comprehensive expose of the latest and greatest gear and informative commentary for what is obviously one of the region’s prime agriculture activities

20 Victorian Country Press Association

2021 Awards

Thanks to all our judges for 2021!

Patrick Elligett - Recently appointed news director at The Age, Patrick Elligett is a journalist, editor and university teacher with strong roots in rural and regional journalism. He has worked on magazines in the Middle East, taught online journalism at La Trobe University and served as the editor of regional newspapers including Mildura’s Sunraysia Daily and Swan Hill’s The Guardian.

Lynne Smith - Lynne Smith has been a journalist all her life. She was the first female editor of the Latrobe Valley Express, leaving after 12 years to become general manager of the Gippsland Times. Eight years ago, she left the newspaper industry and set up a successful communications company which has grown to a team of four journalists, supported by other industry professionals.

Angela Carey - Ange spent 30 years in the media industry. She started as a cadet journalist with the Kyabram Free Press before moving to The Courier in Ballarat, where she rose through the ranks to become its first female editor (2006-2011) and then its general manager (2011-2012). Most recently Ange took on the role of community engagement manager with Bushfire Recovery Victoria.

Bob Mackie - Bob Mackie is a former senior executive with Fairfax and Rural Press. His media career spans more than 38 years across regional newspapers throughout Australia. Bob started his career as a photojournalist in Canada before moving to Australia and working as a photographer, journalist, editor and manager. He is a life member of the Country Press Association of NSW.

Garry Baker - Garry Baker has worked in the newspaper industry for more than 40 years, starting with a journalism cadetship at the Gippsland Times, Sale. After a stint with the Shepparton News he was appointed managing editor of the Deniliquin Pastoral Times. Since 1980, most of Garry’s career has been in Deniliquin. Garry has also been involved with service clubs, sporting and business organisations.

Darren Robinson - Darren Robinson is a fourthgeneration newspaper executive and currently serves as director of Advertising Sales and Marketing at The Leader newspaper, based in the Barossa Valley. Also serving the Country Press SA Committee as president, Darren has enjoyed a decorated career in advertising, having won many awards for best advertisement, advertising feature and special publication.

Peter Clark - Peter's media career began at Newscorp in 1997 at the Herald & Weekly Times. He worked around Australia and finished his 20-year career at Newscorp in 2017 as executive general manager, Digital - Metro and Regional Publishing. He is now an owner and director of the Geelong-based digital marketing agency, Arthur St Digital. He and his family are now "living the dream" in Anglesea.

Peter Dredge - Peter began his working life in the finance sector in Australia and the UK. He made the move into media as a founding shareholder in Ethical Investor magazine and as a radio producer at the ABC. From 2002, Peter worked as a freelance television producer across a range of genres. In 2009 Peter established Screentime Communications and in 2013, he decided to establish his own agency, Devise.

Alan Pont - Alan Pont spent 30 years in the publishing industry working across various roles including national sales, profit centre management, acquisitions and audience research for Rural Press Limited and Fairfax Media. Prior to that, he worked in research, consulting and banking. After retiring in 2013 he has kept busy in construction, keeping fit, travelling, fishing and from time to time, drinking fine red wine.

Greg Watson - A member of a five-generation Australian publishing and printing family, Greg Watson’s life work is newspapers having now spent almost 60 years enjoying the challenges of the everchanging industry. Greg retired in December 2015 and was appointed secretary of the Queensland Country Press Association. He is a life member of both the NSW and Queensland Country Press Associations.

Damian Morgan - Damian is a marketing strategist and creative director at Devise. For the past 15 years he has developed strategies and campaigns for myriad companies including Fairfax, Rio Tinto and News Corp.

He began his working life as a performance poet and then moved into current affairs broadcasting. Born and raised on a farm on the western downs of Queensland, he has a deep understanding of rural Australia.

Samantha Cockfield - Samantha is the Head of Road Safety at the TAC, responsible for the development and delivery of the TAC’s road safety strategy which spans road infrastructure, vehicle safety initiatives and a range of programs to improve road user behaviours. She has dedicated her career to the elimination of death and serious injury on the road advocating for road safety regionally and internationally.

Thanks to all our sponsors for 2021!