COUNTRY PRESS SA
Success in PRESS NEWSPAPER AWARDS HAHNDORF 2016
SIX OF THE BEST HAS
Border Watch boys jumping for joy!
Border Watch editor Jason Wallace, left, manager Dennis Jackson, Young Journalist of the Year Todd Lewis and sales consultant Christian Greco celebrate their outstanding night.
The Border Watch newspaper staff had a night out which literally had them jumping for joy at the Country Press SA awards on February 24. The Mt Gambier-based paper took home six awards which just about had them wearing a path out on the carpet from their table
to the stage at the Adelaide Hills Convention Centre in Hahndorf. They took out the Best News Photo, Best Supplement, Best Advertisement (image branding) Best Headline, Most Effective Journalism and Best Young Journalist. The paper’s manager
Dennis Jackson said he was delighted to win awards across the whole range of categories and paid tribute to the dedication and professionalism of all the staff. “It was fantastic night and we’re constantly working hard to keep improving our product,” he said.
The night was attended by more than 140 guests including the SA Premier Jay Weatherill. The winner of the Best Newspaper with a circulation over 5000 went to the YP Country Times in Kadina. It was the first time the newspaper had taken out the major award.
2 Success in PRESS BEST NEWSPAPER (OVER 5000)
Country Press SA NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2016
Yorke Peninsula Country Times
The YP Times they are a changin’ JUDGE’S COMMENTS There seems to be a real buzz around the Best Newspapers, + 5000, and they give every sign of weathering the storm of negativity around the print media in general. The commitment to clean, colourful, “read me” layouts is generally improved on last year. Indeed, I found it extremely hard to separate the first five newspapers for varying reasons. The printing this year looks just that much cleaner; layouts, generally, are better. In editorial, the attention to good story angles and decisions on placement and presentation also was a mark of the entries overall. The advertising ranged from great to indifferent but, pleasingly, the local volume seemed healthy in these tougher times. Even those papers which did not place in the top few, have shown some improvement, particularly in editorial. Community pride shines through, whether it is through campaigning journalism, or simply the commitment to people, faces, activities and the sense of togetherness that will always give the local newspaper its point of difference and its reason for being in a so-called digital world. While acutely aware of press restrictions, the dominance of mono pages in some newspapers continues to be noted and sometimes story count could improve. Overall, however, SA’s regional, country newspapers (and not forgetting our friends in Broken Hill) with a circulation of more than 5000 can feel justifiably proud of their desire and ability to produce quality journalism, community information, classifieds and ROP advertisements. FIRST: Yorke Peninsula Country Times There is no doubt that the YP Country Times has improved its overall presentation on last year. It looks healthy and acts the same, with thoughtful front pages, both clean and colourful. It shows strong community diversity, with terrific sport, and is better sectioned than last year. There are plenty of people, with the best community section of all the newspapers in this category. In advertising, presentation was clear and solid, with the Beach Day Out an attractive example. Some pages could have a better story count and it seems odd that the free ads get dominance on the back page over the people who pay, in what is otherwise a fine classified section. Overall, it was very hard to pick between the YP Country Times and last year’s winner. Attention to the presentation of a complete package has lifted it by a whisker. SECOND: Murray Pioneer The Murray Pioneer has not dropped its standards one bit and has all the qualities which last year gave it top place. It consistently has the best front pages of all entries, is neat and clean throughout. Like the YP Country Times, it has good lay-outs, with smart use of type and fonts and demonstrates a good standard of journalism, although, sometimes story count could be better. The Pioneer had many catchy ads, the Riverland Auto&4WD being a case in point. Classifieds are well presented. Good lay-outs also made a strong sports section easy to navigate. Like the winner, the production values
Bruce Morgan
Michael and Kaylene Ellis can’t hide their joy after winning the best newspaper award.
There is no doubt the YP Country Times looks healthy, with thoughtful front pages, both clean and colourful. – Judge Bruce Morgan
The Yorke Peninsula Country Times managing editor Michael Ellis with the newspaper’s staff. This was the first time the paper had won the State’s leading newspaper award and it told its readers of its joy in no uncertain terms with a front page splash!
were strong: these look like modern, vibrant papers that are a credit to their communities. THIRD: The Leader This big, bustling newspaper just looks and reads much better than last year with good all-round presentation of journalism and advertising and community information. There was a good, improved story count and The Leader is very strong in sport. Advertising was overall impressive with Foodland a good example of the bright, bold and clear approach. A strong real estate guide caps this off. The fonts and type use could be cleaner with a little more modern approach but and lay-outs sometimes were inconsistent. However, as with the two above, it shows all the hallmarks of a strong community newspaper. …And the rest: The Courier Another big, bold newspaper, this has many of the same aspects of The Leader. It always has a strong community presence and has been a worthy past winner. Generally, good front pages, with the Plan for the Town Square a stand-out presentation. The story count was better, and editorial seems to have improved in the sports section. The lift-out is worthy, even if most readers choose not to lift it out. The advertising was of high standard,
with the Gift Guide a nice mix of ads and people. Not always the best reproduction and could avoid slabs of type, while a look at fonts and head sizing could make this a cleaner newspaper. The Border Watch Once again, the Border Watch shows its strength as a crusading newspaper. It is never far away from the top and also is a worthy past, multiple winner. Advertisements were consistently good and often inventive, with the Alternative Foods an example. Lay-outs, type use and fonts are as professional as any. Mono detracts, particularly on people pages, and story count could improve on this four-day offering. Enjoyed the “50 years ago today” front page idea. Barossa & Light Herald Much improved presentation on last year, with editorial showing better layout and focus. Some very good advertising also, with reproduction seemingly better, and an improved flow through a paper with limited paging. It is clear some thought and hard work has gone into this newspaper, having got rid of ad stacking and cramped editorial. Not far away from the others. The Bunyip This is a consistently good community newspaper that should score better. There is nothing wrong with its
journalism and the advertising is a highlight because of the power of the stock, not to mention some good ideas. The body type leading, unfortunately, presents a messy look and some attention to layout design, fonts and presentation consistency would go a long way to elevating it. Sport (back, then inside) is an example. Heaps of potential. The Times While there is nothing particularly wrong with the Victor Harbor newspaper, it seems to have slipped a tad on prior years. Nevertheless, positive community journalism and clean layouts on what looks to be improved stock. This is a strong paper despite being down the list and its team should feel proud. Barrier Daily Truth A truly wonderful, old-fashioned newspaper – and that is not a criticism. From its classic masthead to its design and flow, it reminds of dailies gone by. And it presents well as a daily, complete with AAP news. At six days a week, it has to stretch itself although story count was okay. Sport is stretched, too, and not always well presented. While fonts and body type were good, there seemed to be heavy use of ink, which impacted on some ads. Too much mono also impacted on the ads but there really is not much between this and some of the above. The Flinders News Well done at The News because, even though the other entries are ahead, this newspaper is much closer to them all than last year. Clearly attention has gone into a cleaner layout, less ad-stacking, more focused journalism and good advertising. It suffers from a lack of paging which in turn restricts a good editorial content. Not much more the team could do but give readers a clean, much more energised newspaper, working their best with what they have.
Country Press SA NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2016
Success in PRESS 3
Nothing plain about the Producer BEST NEWSPAPER (2400-5000)
Plains Producer A great read! Staggeringly good circulation growth due to the lively content. Great sport, pleasing columns – a good example that success is content driven. – Judge Peter Read on the Plains Producer LEFT: Staff from the award winning Plains Producer (back, from left) Ethan Allen, James Manuel, Les Pearson, Andrew Manuel, David Newsome, (front) Louise Michael, Lisa Schulz and Leanne Salvemini. Absent are Jenny Wainwright, Kylie Murphy, Lee-anne McCracken, Gabrielle Jones, Michelle Osborn, Bec O'Brien, Natalie Centenera, Andrew Parker, Terry Bevan, Dennis Green and Kon Toumaras.
This is the second year I have judged this section and it was pleasing to note a considerable improvement in the standard of most of the papers. One disappointment was the lack of engagement with social media/the internet, other than through Facebook pages. Increased online connection broadens the reader connection and encourages them to supply news and pics via the net. Pointers at the end of stories seeking online reader comments or letters to the editor would help. The strength of the letters page is a good indicator of community connection. Using local columnists or bloggers can add colour, humour and good local content for little or no cost – a handy space filler when our newsrooms are being cut due to reduced revenue. The issues submitted did not contain any editorial campaigns – a lost opportunity to make a difference locally through the power of the pen. Only one editor added an info sheet listing their achievements during the year – something very helpful to judges. Content is King! Good presentation can only go so far. Remember the old saying that a pig in lipstick is still a pig – experience shows that more effort on content rather than presentation can pay circulation
JUDGE’S COMMENTS dividends. More light/humorous content would improve some papers which were packed with only more serious news. I believe readers are now expecting more entertainment from their papers. Running a weekend advertising copy writing workshop would pay dividends, as the locally produced adverts in many papers lacked the necessary hook. And if the adverts do not produce results, selling more space to that advertiser will be increasingly difficult. Selling packages rather than one-off adverts would also help to boost the disappointingly low ad percentages in many papers. A noticeable improvement in print quality was pleasing. Competitions: Reader giveaways cost very little to run and although the compliance issues are a headache, the lure of winning prizes helps readers to justify paying our increasing cover prices. People and Places: I loved the People and Places pics pages in the Fairfax entries. Colourful and well received content. Sports pages were well done in most papers, very well done in some.
Agricultural news was done well in some cases and poorly in others where farming is a significant industry. Northern Argus: Good People and Places pages and pleased to see a Rural Page. In too many of the photos, the subjects were lined up like birds on a fence. Whyalla News: A big improvement on last year. Better front pages with more lively pics and better colour reproduction. Plains Producer: A great read! Staggeringly good circulation growth due to the lively content. Great sport, pleasing columns – a good example that success is content driven. Low ad percentages and modular design could be improved along with more colour but overall a star performer. Port Pirie Recorder: Pleasing opinion page and a good number of letters, showing reader connection. People and Places pages looked good. Sport could be improved. Murray Valley Standard: Improved content, story count and better reproduction this year. The weddings and baby page has good reader value. Pleasing to see a gardening page.
Peter Read Port Lincoln Times: Better real estate volume than most entrants and a strong letters page show good local connection. Good news and story count but bland Facebook comment column and rural content was disappointing. Naracoorte Herald: A big improvement on last year and some “silly” pics caused me to smile. Good rural space but lightweight rural news. People and Places pages impressive. Transcontinental, Port Augusta: Good cheery pics but disappointing real estate volume. Good news and history content and always pleasing to see an editorial in a local paper. Very little separated the top four papers in this category and the templated layout of the Fairfax papers made judging more difficult. Thanks to the influence of the social media, I believe that readers are looking for more passion, humour and “parish pump” news in the content of their local papers and this year’s winner was a standout in this category. Facebook pages are being run by most of papers but a lot more could be done in regards
to what has been termed 360 degrees journalism – starting a discussion online and publishing the results in the paper. This is a great way to involve readers in what they would like to see in their town and other local “pothole” issues. Campaigning journalism was sadly lacking in the papers submitted for judging and more involvement with the social media would help to address this. Decreasing advertising and circulation revenue means readers are expecting us to do more with less. But despite these challenges, the overall standard was an improvement on last year and I believe three papers stood out. In third place I chose the Murray Valley Standard which had a good story count and improved content and colour reproduction. Second this year is the Port Lincoln Times, which had a good story count, pleasing letters pages and better real estate than some other entrants. The winner – had a good lively feel to its content and better passion. They have increased their footprint and paging, seen an incredibly good circulation increase, made more use of columnists and have an excellent sports section. The winner for 2016 is the Plains Producer.
4 Success in PRESS
Country Press SA NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2016
BEST NEWSPAPER (UNDER 2400)
Loxton News
High praise from cover to cover
The team from the Loxton News ... advertising representative Wendy Forbes, left, editor Pamela Perre, journalist Stephanie Thompson and administration assistant Renae Harman.
The recording of local history and providing information to its readership has always been and remains the major role of all newspapers. The newspapers submitted for judging all carried out the role with great aplomb, but all have room for improvement in an ever changing media landscape. Papers entered in the circulation under 2400 category section play vital roles in their respective communities and need to be forever vigilant to make sure they are delivering what is expected. Failure to do so is terminal. Unfortunately, the era of the “template newspaper” and the need to drive down costs has not helped and has given rise to what appears to be space filling. This was evident in a couple of newspapers, obviously from the same stable, who had identical front page layouts (and generally also inside). This makes the publications very predictable and less interesting. Front pages which look the same, week in and week out, do nothing to tell the reader that this is a “big news” week. It seems that every week is the same. Newspapers need to react and reflect what is happening. You will not always have a bumper issue to tackle, but when you do it needs to get the full treatment – bigger heading and stronger pictures cropped to suit the photograph and not the allocated space. Social photos are a great circulation driver but they need to be done well. Simply showing the same person shaking hands in multiple pictures is not making good use of space. Social photos, like any other photos in the publication, should carry the names of people photographed. Unfortunately, this was not always the case. Shorter and stronger lead paragraphs would also help as there appears to be a tendency to over-write with some lead paragraphs being far too wordy. In the “old days” sub-editors would turn 30 plus word paragraphs into sharper, more focused intros. Journalists should, as a matter of course, do this regardless of whether the paper has a sub-editor or not. There was also a lack of news briefs
JUDGE’S COMMENTS – short, sharp three or four paragraph stories which can help to increase story count, particularly in early general news. The more stories a newspaper runs, the more chance it has of being relevant to its readers. Some papers also appear guilty of treating the front page differently from other pages in the paper. All pages should be treated as “front pages”. When this happens the publication’s overall standard is significantly enhanced. Papers which shone in this category, winner The Loxton News, The South Eastern Times (second) and The River News (third) all maintained high standards throughout. The Loxton News, in particular, goes deep in terms of quality from front to back. It appears to be loved by both its staff and its readers and delivers on most key indicators – good bright pages, well written stories and good advertising layout. FIRST: Loxton News The Loxton News is a good cover-tocover read. It could, perhaps, do more with its front page to promote its inside content. Content is generally well-written and photos are generally of good quality, so why wouldn’t you promote these via the front page, even if it means reducing the size of the main picture? Unlike some of the other papers in this category, The Loxton News has a good story count. It is no doubt because of this that it attracts good quality and quantity of letters to the editor. The paper has resisted – to its great credit – the temptation to turn its sports section into a “results section”, running good photos and stories on a wide variety of sports. For many readers, sport is the main reason for getting the local newspaper. Loxton’s sports lovers should not be disappointed. The two-page Loxton High School ball pictorial coverage was a stand out. No
Joe Italiano
doubt these two pages will be keepsakes for the 40 or so people featured on the pages. Although the pages were simple in their lay-out, the photos were well cropped and clear. They certainly would be worth keeping. SECOND: Penola Pennant The Pennant is a paper heading in the right direction. It is bright, uses big pics and promotes stories inside the paper with well presented “inside” panels. Its coverage of local news and events is good but it could benefit by adding a second story on the front page, rather than the stock standard picture story and lead. Obviously the paper has some limits in terms of the use of colour as an eight page section in each edition was run in mono which did not help presentation, particularly with picture pages. The paper is obviously a strong advocate for its readers, running strong pro-Penola editorials. THIRD: Eyre Peninsula Tribune New technology can help in the production of newspapers, but it has to be managed. Unfortunately, the process seems to have, at times, taken over at The Eyre Peninsula Tribune. Its front page story on May 19, 2016, featured just two paragraphs. The first paragraph, which ran over four legs, was a whopping 248 words in nine sentences. Clearly the system did not pick up the paragraph changes intended by the writer. The paper also suffered by not necessarily having the right shaped picture or story to fill the editorial gaps allocated. This was evident in the front pages submitted for judging. All four carried exactly the same size photo, exactly the same sized lead story heading and exactly the same tint box (and tint box colour) in which the picture story was run. In addition to the front pages being the same, so too were page 3 in three of the four papers judged.
South Eastern Times The South Eastern Times knows what it is about and appears to know what is expected of it by its readers. It has well written stories which cover a wide range of activities, from local politics to sport and social get-togethers. Those writing the stories appear to be well connected in the community as the paper has a good cross-section of news and views represented. Front pages carry good pointers, indicating there is more to see inside – a great sales pitch to potential readers. It also varies page design so although the elements are still the same, the presentation looks fresh in each of its bi-weekly editions. The paper probably deserves better advertising support than it receives. If it has a weakness, this is it. West Coast Sentinel The West Coast Sentinel has a modular lay-out which no doubt makes publishing it easier. It, however, also lends itself to space filling with things like a company logo simply placed into a box on the front page to fill what looks like it should have been a photo box on February 18, 2016. In the same edition it ran a five columns picture of wheat to go with a story on the grains harvest being above average. A picture of a smiling farmer in the paddock would have made far more impact. The paper also suffers from a low a story count. The paper’s classified pages appear to be holding up well despite the advent of online sales competition over recent years. This should provide encouragement for those working on the newspaper. River News The River News had some very good front pages. These pages would be hard to miss on the newsstands. The paper has all the tools it needs at its disposal and is using them well. “Text the Editor” is a novel approach to help engage readers and is indicative of the proactive approach the paper takes to publishing. On a negative note, the paper does run some fairly ordinary “line up” pictures. These pictures could be done a lot better.
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OUT FOR Success pENOLAin PRESS 5
Firies hit new heights
IN SAFE HANDS: SA Ambulance Service intensive care paramedic Tamara Mieglich (in stretcher) is lifted to safety from Mount Gambier’s Apartments on the Lakes in a combined training exercise with the city’s Metropolitan Fire Service to put its new fire truck through its paces yesterday. With “the patient” is SA Ambulance Service paramedic Daniel Forrest and MFS aerial platform operator Julian Tralongo. One of only four in South Australia, the new truck, or Combined Aerial Pumping Applicance, came with a price-tag of around $1.3m and arrived in Mount Gambier last week. It features a vertical reach of 20 metres, making it ideal for elevated fire fighting and rescues. Full story page 2. Picture: LEON RADEMEYER
JUDGE’S COMMENTS
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A spontaneous pictureCLASSIFIEDS of unsuspecting “Happy, movement > PAGE > PAGES 15-18 > PAGESFederal WEATHER > MT GAMbIER TODAy: MIn. 7, MAx. 14Barry – SHOWERS InCREASInG > PAGE 27 smiling COMICS kids, 10 TV GUIDE 21-22 O’Brien and good lighting – need we say more?!” No Carla, that sums up a beautiful Another very pleasing presentation with, in racing At Bendigo Bank, it’s all about rewarding you picture. with The Victor Harbor Times entry was bright, had action parlance, a blanket finish and a photo greater finish between savings on your home loan, the more you a number of entries. It is a pity there can only be one and was full of fun. The Whyalla News’ colourful choose to bank picture with us.of the Rainbow Run was well used and unspoilt winner. by intrusive heading. Theloan same can’t be said for Some of the entries in the blanket finish missing Andjust for you, that could an include saving $600 on home fees*. out on the placings included The Barossa and Light some other entries. So, consider a home If loan from was Australia’s most Commended reputable banksection I would there a Highly Herald and their wine workers. (AMR Corporate Reputation Index 2015). The Naracoorte Herald’s picturesque rams moving award all the above. THIRD: The Producer through flood waters to a new paddock was eye Drop into your nearest branch at 16 Plains James Street, full to of find lifeout expression the winner of the catching. Mt Gambier or phoneBright, 8726 3200 more aboutofsecuring To quote Carla Weise-Smith on the Northern Argus Fashion at the Races taken by Ethan Allen. a home loan you can count on.
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BEST JOURNALISM
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Member for Wakefield Nick Champion being placed in a headlock by a grim-faced train commuter. Good on-the-spot action by Grady Hudd. FIRST: The Border Watch It is us a picture Ask how towith a bit of mystery as the first thought is, “How did he get this picture?” Photographer Leon Rademeyer went to a lot of trouble in initially organising and arranging this spectacular shot, then contended with stop-start rainy conditions on loan fees* as home he perched on a balcony while taking it. The impact was slightly spoilt by the heading but I am judging on the photograph, not the presentation. Well done.
delve into an issue deeply, exactly what this year’s top entries did. I gave three commendations this year. They were to: Erica Visser, the Barossa and Light Herald, for strong coverage on a fight, yet to be won, for a new hospital in the Barossa Valley. Erica’s articles have been the backbone of the paper’s campaign for better health services. Chelsea Ashmeade, the Northern Argus for her well-written articles as part of Fairfax’s Drive. Arrive campaign. Her articles documented the struggles people face as they recover from road accidents. Matt Carcich, The Transcontinental, for his sensitive and hard hitting stories in the Drive, Arrive campaign. THIRD: Nick Perry of The Yorke Peninsula Country Times During 2016 cuts to fishing bag limits became a highly controversial issue on the peninsula.
JUDGE’S COMMENTS
FIRST: Sandra Morello of The Border Watch This is the second year in a row Sandra has won this award. In 2014 she was runner-up. Sandra is a proven strong performer and this year’s entry certainly reinforced her credentials. She tackled the thorny issue of chronic medical staff shortages and risks to patient safety at the Mt Gambier Hospital. Sandra’s persistence resulted in the publication of a series of leaked emails which were between senior emergency doctors and Country Health SA officials. Her Code Blue campaign started in early November and by late December she had written 10 front page stories. As a result of those stories Country Health SA announced an independent review into the hospital. Over the two months of stories, Sandra stayed on top of the issue and her reporting helped trigger change to benefit her community.
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Kym Tilbrook Nick’s comprehensive coverage of the proposed changes covered 16 articles including six Page 1 stories. At all times, Nick ensured he covered all sides of the wide-ranging debate. Publicity around the issue resulted in a local advocacy group starting at Port Victoria called RecFishCENTRAL. It now has more than 2000 members. SECOND: Genevieve Cooper of The Courier. Genevieve is a regular in the top three in the Excellence in Journalism category. Once again, she presented an exclusive story that could have easily won the category. It was a very close run thing. Genevieve’s exclusive was an interview with local Federal MP Jamie Briggs after he was forced to resign from the Turnbull Ministry. National media were left in the wake as they struggled to follow up Genevieve’s story.
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SWINGING WITH THE STARS ON THIS WEEKEND NEWS >PHOTO pAGE 3 BEST NEWS
Country Press SA NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2016
6 Success in PRESS
Country Press SA NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2016
We’re imPRESSed! When you play a fundamental role in your community, your work can often go unnoticed. As South Australia’s safe and reliable electricity distributor, it is something we are reminded of every day and something we share with our State’s country press. Like us, South Australia’s country newspapers play an important role in the community. From the south east to the far west and the far north, country newspapers keep our community informed and entertained. The Country Press Awards provide important and deserved recognition to the best of the best. So, congratulations to the award winners, but also to everyone who helps fill the pages and keep the presses rolling. Proud sponsor of the Country Press Newspaper Awards
Country Press SA NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2016
Success in PRESS 7
BOWLS NIGHT SHOWS BIAS IN NEWSPAPERS
Outgoing Country Press SA president Andrew Manuel is locked in a ferocious battle with opponent Ned Raggatt from HWR.
The Courier’s managing director Norm Marston hosted about 40 Country Press folk for a barbecue in the newspaper’s pressroom on the Thursday night before the conference. After enjoying what were described as the best gourmet sausages this side of Goyder’s Line, the assembled “athletes” walked to the nearby Mt Barker Bowling Club for some sporting action. Arranged into teams courtesy of a lucky (or unlucky) dip and all wearing personalised Country Press SA t-shirts, those gathered may have looked impressive but sadly the evening failed to unearth a budding Olympian. The best to emerge was Tony Mangan from HWR who, despite being a bowling novice, is now eagerly looking forward to his 80th birthday so he can play legitimately.
THIS COULD BE NASTY ... Disputes as to whose bowl was closest to the kitty were frequent and often difficult to resolve – partly because the bowls were usually so far from the elusive little white target. Thankfully the wise heads of Kaylene Ellis, left, from the YP Country Times and judge Margaret Manuel prevented this potential dispute from escalating and it was settled in the proper way ... over a glass of bubbles at the bar.
Veteran judge Lloyd Jenkins from Victoria, above, shows a smooth and fluid bowling style while Fraser ‘This’ll Be Easy’ Ellis, below, from the YP Country Times had a constant struggle to either get his bowl past the half way mark or keep it out of the gutter.
The Courier’s Norm Marston.
BARBECUE BOYS ... The Courier’s Bill Pizimolas, left, and Steve Marston with some of the blackened sausages deemed unfit for human consumption.
Darren Robinson, left, from The Leader with Tom Raggatt from HWR are all smiles at The Courier, completely unaware of the humiliation awaiting them on the bowling green.
Tony, left and Angela Robinson from The Leader with Garry and Pat Baker from Deniliquin.
The YP Country Times Nick Perry, left, Fraser Ellis, Ian Shaw and Michael Ellis in The Courier’s pressroom.
8 Success in PRESS
Country Press SA NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2016
Conference sessions a highlight Those attending the Friday morning and lunch of the conference were treated to some interesting speakers. Mt Barker real estate agent James Sexton from Sexton, Glover Watts gave an entertaining talk on the development pressures facing Mt Barker as well as the value of newspaper advertising to increase property sales. Kyle Davis, the founder of the hyper local Village Voice newspaper in Sydney, outlined the value of local news in a market saturated with “big” news. Small, local and agile local newspapers have a future in tomorrow’s electronic world, she argued. The Adelaide Football Club chairman and international business executive, Rob Chapman – the son of a Mt Barker butcher – talked about the way the club dealt with the shock murder of its coach Phil Walsh in 2015. He also stressed the value of leadership from James Sexton delivers his presentation. management, especially in times of crisis. And Anthony Paech from the nearby Beerenberg jam and produce company told the story of how his international business grew out of a humble strawberry patch in his parents’ backyard. He stressed the need for hard work, attention to detail, the constant financial re-investment required in a family business and the positive value of “freshening” the business image. But the speaker who had the room in the palm of his hand was His Excellency, the Honourable Hieu Van Le, Governor of SA. His Excellency told the harrowing story of his boat journey as a refugee from war torn Vietnam in 1970. There was not a dry eye in the house as he reiterated his appreciation for the opportunity given to him since arriving in Australia with After giving his speech the Governor, the Honourable Hieu Van Le, Centre, nothing. was joined by Tony Robinson, Damian Trezise, Angela Robinson, Andrew Manuel, Michael Ellis, Kaylene Ellis, Darren Robinson and Paul Thomas. Afterwards he was mobbed like a rock star!
His Excellency, the Honourable Hieu Van Le, Governor of SA.
Rob Chapman
Kyle Davis
ADELAIDE HILLS CONVENTION CENTRE, HAHNDORF
The packed Adelaide Hills Convention Centre in Hahndorf.
The Taylor Group journalists Stephanie Thompson (Loxton News), Celeste Newbery (Murray Pioneer), Sara Gilligan (Murray Pioneer), Jane Kuerschner (Murray Pioneer) and Pamela Perre (Loxton News).
RIGHT: Outgoing Country Press SA president Andrew Manuel (Plains Producer), left, and State Minister Peter Malinauskas.
Trevor Miller (Media Super), left, Ian Shaw (YP Country Times), Sandy Shaw (YP Country Times) and Dorothy Staruchowicz (Media Super).
Country Press SA NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2016
Success in PRESS 9
The Robinson family from The Leader in Angaston, from left, Adam, Darren, Tegan, Angela and Tony.
Percy Henry (SA/WA Fairfax), Dylan Hogarth (Fairfax central cluster), Billie Harrison (Fairfax West Coast cluster), Sharon Hansen (Murray Valley Standard), and Barry Potter (Fairfax).
Country Press Australia president Paul Thomas, left, with SA Premier Jay Weatherill, and Jason Wallace (The Border Watch).
The Foremen entertainers gave everyone a laugh.
Lloyd Jenkins (judge) left, and wife Val Jenkins, John Pick (life member) and wife Irene Pick.
Margaret Manuel (life member), left, David Newsome (Plains Producer), and State Minister Leesa Vlahos. Trevor McAuliffe (Country Press SA life member) and wife Marilyn McAuliffe, Jenny Wainwright (Plains Producer) and Brad Sargent (Plains Producer).
SA Premier Jay Weatherill addresses the audience.
Alicia Ludi-Schutz (The Leader), left, Thomas Ludi (The Leader), Stephanie Gann (The Leader) and Jess Waldhuter (The Leader).
RIGHT: Ian Shaw (YP Country Times) strikes a familiar pose!
Renee White (Fairfax), left, Simone Bertrum, (Fairfax Port Lincoln) and Kelly Foxwell (Fairfax Victor Harbor).
10 Success in PRESS
Country Press SA NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2016 LEFT: Norm Marston, left, Elizabeth Grove and sales manager Jon James (The Courier). BELOW: Country Press SA president Ian Osterman (The Courier), left, and SA Power Networks representative Paul Roberts.
Steve Marshall (Agfa Graphics), left, Paul Sayner (Brissett Rollers), Shane Butenko (SA Printing Supplies), and Chris Tierney (Agfa Graphics) enjoy a beer on the deck.
Penny Kaleta (Fairfax), Bruce Morgan (judge), Damian Trezise (Victorian Country Press Association), and Garry Baker and wife Pat Baker (both of Deniliquin Newspapers).
Best Sports Story award sponsor Chris Tierney (Agfa Graphics), left, winner Paul Mitchell (Murray Pioneer) and sponsor Paul Roberts (SA Power Networks).
Merridy Manuel (Plains Producer) and Country Press Australia president Paul Thomas.
Dylan Hogarth, left, Lee Curnow and Barry Potter (all of Fairfax).
Member for Mt Gambier Troy Bell, left, with Jen Fuller and her partner Dan Cregan. LEFT: Grady Hudd (The Bunyip), Kayla Perry, and Nick Perry (both of YP Country Times).
Best Supplement award sponsor Paul Sayner (Brissett Rollers) and winner Christian Greco (The Border Watch).
Winners of the Best Newspaper circulation over 5000 YP Country Times editor Amie Price, left, production manager Ian Shaw, journalist Nick Perry, managing editor Michael Ellis, award sponsor Paul Roberts (SA Power Networks) and judge Bruce Morgan.
Excellence in Journalism award sponsor Paul Roberts (SA Power Networks), Border Watch editor Jason Wallace and judge Kym Tilbrook.
RIGHT: Loxton News editor Pamela Perre addresses the audience after winning Best Newspaper circulation under 2400.
Country Press SA NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2016
Success in PRESS 11
BEST FRONT PAGE
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LEADING LADY: Val Tilbrook looked particularly glamourous in her 1920s get-up. PHOTO: Erica Visser.
JUDGE’S COMMENTS Graham Gorrel THIRD: Yorke Peninsula Country Times A man armed with a gun on the run doesn’t occur in a country town too often. When it did at Kadina, the YPCT staff was on hand, pursued police in their hunt for the wanted man and captured the action in a great front page, Manhunt. Another fine effort from a consistently excellent newspaper. SECOND: Murray Pioneer Using a staff picture as a base and enhanced by some excellent graphic work turned this local political stoush between a State Government minister and Riverland MP over storm recovery funds into a front page that grabbed readers attention and captured completely the depth of feeling in the community. FIRST: Northern Argus It was, as the editor’s submission proclaimed, “a front page image that grabs your attention”. Uncomplicated, colourful, no wastage of words here but just begging the reader to go the Clare town hall’s 90th birthday story inside and two pages of pictures of the big event. It is a page one that truly captures the moment.
A GRAND OL' TIME
Feather boas, fur coats and sequins were aplenty at the Clare Town Hall on Saturday to celebrate its 90th birthday. STORY, P4; PHOTOS, P12-13.
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BEST HEADLINE Friday, November 11, 2016
Country Press SA Newspaper Of The Year – 2004, 2010, 2011, 2012 & 2013
Hospital staff break silence with claims of major failures in emergency department
CRITICAL ISSUES • Junior doctors unsupervised after 10pm each night • Claims junior doctors are being required to perform duties beyond skill level
CODE BLUE EXCLUSIVE SANDRA MORELLO
sandra@tbw.com.au
STAFFING issues at the Mount Gambier Hospital’s emergency department have hit crisis point amid claims doctors fear underresourcing is compromising patient safety. The issue escalated yesterday with the doctor’s union calling for an immediate response from Health Minister Jack Snelling and
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• Some junior doctors have quit due to stress • Patients have been banked up in corridors and waiting bays because of the lack of beds and treatment
City MP seeks state inquiry
Country Health SA officials over at risk, medical staff were feeling the “escalating” issue. “desperate” and some doctors have Speculation has emerged one quit under the strain. locum doctor employment agency Another nurse claimed adverse - which provides medical salaried incidents were being “brushed officers - has now stopped sending under the carpet” and the doctors to the over-stretched facil- community was being placed ity, which was denied by Country at “great risk”. According Health SA to staff, there yesterday. TEXT YOUR VIEW is no longer a The supervising Border Watch and consultant for the SA Salaried Medical Officers junior doctors after 10pm Association have been contacted by and patients were being concerned staff in recent days over banked up in corridors and the lack of supervision for junior waiting bays because of a doctors. shortfall in staff numbers. One junior doctor told this newspaper that patients were being put Continued page 5
MEMBER for Mount Gambier Troy Bell has called for an independent inquiry into the city’s public hospital following a string of serious complaints from the public. The Liberal MP revealed his office has been notified of a number of concerns and warned the community was losing confidence in the hospital.
TEXT YOUR TEXT YOURVIEW VIEW
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Full story page 4
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The Best Headline award attracted 16 entries and while some were outstanding in addressing the importance of the story and immediately capturing the attention of the reader, others were quirky and to some readers could have been confusing. The winners understood the importance of a great headline and certainly met the criteria to entice and engage the reader. Witty headlines can be great in the right circumstances but in many forms of the media today editors and copywriters are trying to make light of too many stories with play on words or metaphors that do no justice to the story in question or are under-estimating the intelligence of the reader, viewer or listener. Members of Country Press SA generally understand the worth of a good headline and could teach mainstream media a few lessons about respecting the importance of a story and readers. Honourable Mentions go to the Murray Valley Standard for “Caught Dozing” and The Bunyip for “Boar War Over”. THIRD: The Plains Producer The headline “Tiring of Turnbull” was well laid out on the front page leading to a story that told how Local Government leaders were disappointed with Prime Minister Turnbull’s talk without action -“the bull” - and called on him to swap talk with action. Such was the strength of the headline Federal Minister for Wakefield, Nick Champion, used the front page as a prop during a speech in Parliament. Labor MP Tony Burke also featured it in his weekly blog. The headline was planned over a couple of weeks and coincided with the paper’s expansion into a wider area and seemed to be more an editorial comment outlining the paper’s effectiveness as a voice of the people.
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There were 24 entries in the section and seven of them ended up in the judge’s final analysis, all entries satisfying the five disciplines required. • Layout and design • Typography • News value and impact • Use of graphics/photography • Effective use of colour A majority of the entries, especially the final seven, grasped the need for visual impact, notably at the news stands, featuring especially strong colour; graphic headline; short, punchy news analysis throwing to the story inside and effective use of today’s graphic technologies. The leading entries showed how editorial staff had combined their talents to attract readers. If there were demerits in the category they were the odd tendency to over-write page one stories or make the layout too busy, detracting from a reader’s visual impact and compulsion to read. Entries Highly Commended were: The Courier (Cat Attack); Whyalla News (Lights Out); The Leader (Barossa’s Big Wet); The Loxton News (Yessendon).
Border Watch JUDGE’S COMMENTS John Pick
SECOND: Yorke Peninsula Country Times “What’s NXT?” was a headline that asked what would happen after the safe Liberal Seat of Grey was forced into a recount following the strong showing of Nick Xenophon Team’s candidate Andrea Broadfoot. With the seat hanging in the balance following the polling at the last Federal election and the result having a significant impact on who would govern the country, the YP Country Times gave it appropriate front page coverage with an eye catching headline that drew in the reader. FIRST: The Border Watch The headline “CODE BLUE” is a winner in every respect. It captured the medical emergency being experienced at the Mt Gambier Hospital and the need for united and urgent action to begin resuscitative efforts before lives were lost at the hospital. It took just the two words to grab the attention of readers and was further enhanced by the layout and design by a great team. Sub-editors Luke Duff and John Scanlon together with senior journalist Sandra Morello brainstormed to design the page and create the headline. They used a large font with capital letters for maximum impact and the red life line depicted between the two words made for bigger impact. “Code Blue” was the outstanding entry in this year’s awards.
12 Success in PRESS
Country Press SA NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2016
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The standards have certainly improved overall, although there is some advertising where type and pictures do not align themselves with good principles of layout and design. Building an advertisement is like building a house, with different design rules for different types of advertising. It was pleasing to see newspapers included supporting material from advertisers with their entries, demonstrating that they have developed or are developing relationships with their clients. When relationships develop and an advertiser trusts their newspaper and account managers, there is either consistent business or an increase in business. Account managers often do not take the time to listen and empathise with their clients. It’s simply a mistake we make. One of the main complaints of advertisers towards a newspaper is that, “they only call when they want something!” Relationship building is most important; reviewing account manager’s relationships with their clients is a valuable exercise so the newspaper gets the best from the advertisers. PRICED PRODUCT THIRD: The Border Watch The advertisement was clear and to the point for its target audience. It was easy to read and displayed the offer artistically with bottles, adding where they are available with the telephone number as well. The background behind the advertisement could have been a little lighter making the bottles and Coopers
JUDGE’S COMMENTS brand pop out the eye better. The price was clear and the deal was good. Generally across Australia, Country Press locally produced advertisements are taking on the principles of agency produced advertisements. The words in this advertisement are all in capital letters, a trend in written words these days going against the researched fact that it is 35% easier to read capitals and lower case than all capitals. SECOND: Yorke Peninsula Country Times The offer by the Kadina Hotel for lamb shank and Guinness for $17.00 jumped off the page. Last year the YPTC won this category, I think, and no doubt the same very valuable graphic designer has entered again, using his or her experience and developed skill. The advertisement has great appeal to the pub meal punter, the offer is clear and quickly tells you when it’s available and where you can get it. The advertisement would get results with its appeal and design as long as the “price is right”. The impact of the message would be severely affected if the price is not correctly placed in the market. The type layout of the advertisement has the reader’s eye going from top to bottom in an organised manner – offer, when and where. The offer is easy to spot and when and where to get it flows well, nothing is hidden.
Bob Yeates
FIRST: The Recorder It was a clear bright advertisement, prices and products jumped to the eye of the reader. The advertisement looked very organised although the prices could have been placed a little more over the products. The background was light and helped the products stand out. The advertisement clearly states where you can get the special deals and for how long they are on sale. The advertisement is not original but it is well laid out and as a full page for the right market, an eye catcher, a page turning stopper. Comments from advertisers about their advertisements helped guide the judge’s decision. IMAGE/BRANDING THIRD: The Leader The campaign in conjunction with Leader staff over a period, was summed up by Director of Beam Barossa as elite. This is a tremendous accolade for any business and in this case refers to the quality of service, communication and successful partnership between The Leader and Beam. The Leader created brand awareness in the market place for Beam with a cat looking for a reliable internet service provider. The advertisement was clean and direct. The simple headline in easy to read capitals and lowercase, along with an eye catching cat, draws the eye to
simple short messages of short easy to read lines. The creative cat delivered results for Beam SECOND: The Penola Pennant The entry raised the profile of Wattle Range Funerals with a collection of advertisements well laid out, with a few simple lines of copy and funeral related images that gained attention. The local communities gave positive feedback. That was the aim of the campaign and it was achieved according to the owners of the funeral homes. The copy was short, easy to read and the graphics eye stopping. These series of advertisements would have readers wanting to know what was next! The advertisements were tastefully presented for a subject not often tackled in this manner. FIRST: The Border Watch “The Border Watch has helped us double our pastry sales by getting the message out there.” That’s what advertiser Sugar & Spice said about the winning ad in the best image/branding section. Firstly, the client got results and they said so! The eye catching solid red advertisements with great art would start a salivating experience for anybody looking at these advertisements. There was a theme to this campaign, the type was easy to read and art told a simple story. The logo was refreshingly placed at the bottom of each advertisement correctly, after the audience had noted the advertisement and its offer. Simple in design and message, a great result for the advertiser.
Country Press SA NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2016
Success in PRESS 13
BEST SUPPLEMENT
Border Watch
A ‘truly professional’ job
EDITORIAL WRITING Greg Mayfield
JUDGE’S COMMENTS Graham Greenwood THIRD: The Leader The planning and effort that went into this publication came as no surprise given the attention to detail the newspaper’s family owners put into everything they do with their products. It even involved a trip to Tasmania to choose the newsprint, creation of a logo, style guide, trade-marking and an amazing photograph of a woman dressed in a vine leave dress which newspaper staff made. That was truly a work of professionalism. The photo of the woman was centre piece to the supplement with a photo on the front cover and inside. Both were worthy of “best photograph”. Even the title was unique and the idea to publish this publication not only promoted the region well it was an excuse to make extra revenue for the newspaper out of virtually what was just a great idea and one that every regional newspaper should look at. Unfortunately the publication fell short in one key area – it was not reader friendly. The body text would have been better in a ragged right and the lack of paragraph spacing and adequate leading between the lines meant it looked bloggy and was very difficult to read. SECOND: Yorke Peninsula Country Times This was one of the many good tourist-type publications that are presented each year. They all have a place in the regional landscape and this one was an A4 sized glossy magazine type publication which oozed great content and good photos of the region. The layout was light and breezy, content text was easy to read with plenty of white space. Despite the large amount of content it avoided the tendency to cram up the text and the publication benefitted from this. The use of maps which were of a size that tourists could actually read while travelling around the district was another bonus for readers. This newspaper claims that when it started on this project it set out to think like a tourist and in this
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Tom Raggatt, left, from HWR presenting Greg Mayfield with his award.
JUDGE’S COMMENTS Shauna Black
and other respects they certainly came up with a winner. FIRST: The Border Watch This was a truly professional newspaper job, from the overall design, the consistent design page to page, the depth of interesting content, accompanied by good strong photographs. It was a clear winner. What this newspaper did with this 16-page supplement was turn a regular, day-to-day business anniversary feature into something special and they did this by taking the reader on a communication journey of the business from various points of view during its 30 years in existence. But what it also did extremely well was to base the content on some of the businesses success stories it had achieved and in doing
BEST SALES REPRESENTATIVE Tina Traeger, right, was the clear winner of the 2106 "Outstanding Advertising Representative Award". Tina's sales excelled across a number of products, including digital, newspaper and niche publications. Tina's efforts to write $52,000 on one special publication for the EP Field Days was a stand out. She was also able to sell seven FMS website packages in a regional area of just 6000 people across a three month period, she secured a $30,000 contract with Ramsey Bros for a three month campaign and secured an $80000 print and digital campaign with the EP Field Days Committee. Overall she was able to achieve 122% on budget across the year, which in the current environment, is exceptional. She is actively engaged with her local community, volunteering her time with the local football team and with the local trades tables and has strong customer recommendations.
so it actually became a historic piece of the building programs in the city over that same 30 year period. The design work on the front cover was simple but effective and on each page was consistent, easy-to-read, light and readerfriendly with adverts alongside that were just as well designed. The use of pull quotes and side bars with note form information was eye catching and attracted the reader to want more information. The fact the supplement was printed on the normal Goss Press did not detract from its quality and that meant it also maximised its revenue by not having to sub contract the printing work. The successful supplement could well be used as a template on how to achieve success, doing an anniversary feature.
Tina Traeger
An editorial can be powerful, it can influence communities, it can unite or divide opinion and it takes courage and thought. Journalists must be willing to speak to their communities as well as on behalf of them. Honourable mentions to Port Lincoln Times and The Pennant. THIRD: The Border Watch – Sandra Morello Mt Gambier’s journalists have a long and proud history of campaigning on behalf of their communities. Sandra takes up the mantle in defence of staff cuts at the Mt Gambier Hospital, echoing a theme among the South-East newspapers this year of local health services issues. With the assistance of disaffected staff, the Border Watch implored the State Government – and Health Minister Jack Snelling in particular to heed the concerns of community and staff about under-staffing, unacceptable waiting times and lack of supervision for junior medical staff. The campaign was successful in bringing Mr Snelling’s attention and forcing an internal review at the hospital. Sandra crafted three distinct editorials over a short few weeks, each one making an excellent precis of the situation and developing the theme. SECOND: The Murray Pioneer – Paul Mitchell Complaining about politicians is nothing new in country newspaper editorials but some do it in finer style than others. Paul Mitchell is one of these. His criticisms and positions are not conditional or veiled in caveats. He speaks strongly for the Riverland community and provides much reading pleasure for the newspaper public. No doubt, readers look forward each week to reading his well-crafted, lengthy editorials, always of relevance and substance and a great asset to The Murray Pioneer. A clever heading doesn’t hurt either: “BankSA’s low-interest plan for Barmera”, in which Paul describes the surprise exit of BankSA from the small town and its impacts, is a good example. His editorials ranged across the Riverland community, from Barmera’s bank-less community to the LoxtonWaikerie Council divide and the backpacker tax issue facing growers. Paul’s editorials shore up The Murray Pioneer’s position as a paper which covers its entire and diverse distribution area. FIRST: The Recorder – Greg Mayfield Greg is a mature writer who draws together themes in an interesting and readable way. This is editorial writing at its best. Leader writers must look at the sum of events, the personalities and opinions and make a call. Journalists often have access to more material than they can print in their news pages and this is where opinion can be fully informed – with the background information no others see. It is a rare privilege and should be used wisely. Greg issues no strident calls to action in these three pieces but he competently combines reflective words while probing the truth and calling for readers to challenge accepted wisdom and fashionable criticism. In “Health industry boost” he points out that while the community might criticise the bottom line of the local council’s budget, it should also look to the works that local government is doing on its behalf, including capital works. “You don’t need khaki” is a thought-provoking piece about the difficult work of our armed services but also how ordinary individuals can be heroes. In “Politicians can wear hearts on their sleeves” he gives credit where it is due and asks readers not to take political appearances at face value. A pleasure to read.
14 Success in PRESS
Country Press SA NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2016
BEST COMMUNITY PROFILE
Greg Mayfield
RIGHT: Greg Mayfield (The Recorder) with award sponsor MLC John Dawkins.
First person style lifts Greg’s profile facebook.com/portpirierecorder
I favoured pieces which came from interviews that would have been difficult to secure, largely because of the sensitivity of the topic or the experience of the person. Some of the features, while nice to read, wouldn’t have required as much effort to get to print as those recognised with awards. In light of this, I would encourage entrants to use their explanation of their entry to give more detail about how the story came about In future. While I couldn’t award the following two entrants I wanted to give them a special mention. Billie Harrison’s intro pars in “30 years, still flying” (Port Lincoln Times) were a really engaging way into the story. Dierdre Graham’s introto “Rebuilding from the ashes” (The Border Times) was also catchy but I most enjoyed the quotes she managed to get out of her interviewees - about burnt underwire bras and hard-cooked eggs. THIRD: Jane Kuerschner, The Murray Pioneer Reilly’s on top of the weld Exposing a young man’s battle with an eating disorder to his entire community would have taken some convincing on the part of Jane Kuerschner, I imagine. Her resulting piece deals with the issue factually and sensitively, using emotive quotes from young Reilly Gilgen’s mother Jo. (It is a pity the story does not contain any quotes from Reilly himself – although I know how difficult it can beto interview teenage boys, and he was convinced to be in the photo.) This piece also combines profiling a local community
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JUDGE’S COMMENTS Lauren Novak member with a newsworthy issue. SECOND: Louis Mayfield, Whyalla News A journey to recovery Use of the drug ice is increasingly recognised as growing burden on regional communities. However, it is often difficult for journalists to convince people to speak about their addiction openly, let along put their name and photo to a story in the local paper. Louis Mayfield should be commended for doing so with Mahalia Edwards. Louis told her story with compassion while not excusing her actions or the consequences. As well as profiting a local community member, this piece dealt with a very newsworthy topic. FIRST: Greg Mayfield, The Recorder Heart of fire Many entrants profiled survivors of the Pinery bushfires but Greg Mayfield’s account of Brad Dennis’ near-death experience was the most engaging. It is not always encouraged for a reporter to insert themselves into the story but Greg’s unique introduction caught my attention and the first-person perspective was not overdone throughout the rest of the piece. He elicited great quotes from his subject – on what was clearly a difficult topic – and unfurled the story for readers In a compelling and detailed way.
BEST DIGITAL INITIATIVE
C O U N T RY P R E S S S A 2 014 B E S T N E W S PA P E R
BACK HOME: The star on the Christmas tree can be seen behind Brad Dennis, left, Ellise Davidson and Gabby, Robbie, Michelle and Matt Dennis.
Heart of fire BY GREG MAYFIELD
HOW do you reduce a hardened veteran of 40 years’ journalism to tears? My gaze went blurry and I seemed distant from the words of Pinery fire survivor Brad Dennis as we spoke beside his family’s Christmas tree. Moist-eyed, I listened as the 22-year-old farmer recounted how he ran through
a wall of flame on November 25 last year. He was fleeing the blaze which claimed the life of fellow farmer Allan Tiller who was battling the fire with him. Just as incredible as his escape from the inferno are his determined efforts to overcome the 55-percent burns to his body. Somehow, I am not surprised at his magnificent effort – after all Brad received
‘‘
I thought they would put some dressing on and I would go back out and fight the fire. Brad Dennis, Pinery bushfire survivor the Wilfred Brown Memorial Most Courageous Player Award at Solomontown Football Club several years
ago. It was the inaugural award given in the thirds in honour of my late grandfather Wilfred Brown, a former
Cats footballer who had one lung removed in a battle against tuberculosis. Before my visit to the Dennis’ family farm at Baroota, I spoke to Brad on the phone, saying that he had lived up to the ideals of the award. “I just did what anyone would do,” he replied in a voice that still bears the scars of his ordeal.
CONTINUED: P3
Northern Argus
Race day photos show others a clean pair of heels JUDGE’S COMMENTS
Mark Clemow
Mark Clemow, left, Carla Wiese-Smith and Dorothy Staruchowicz from Media Super.
FIRST: The Northern Argus Balaklava Races Fanciest Fillies and Colts Initiative The Northern Argus leveraged the popularity of social photos taken at the 2016 Balaklava Cup for a competition to drive additional readers to their digital and print editions. People who were photographed were given cards so they, their family and friends could go to the Northern Argus website to vote on their favourite photos. The winner was announced in print and online and received a very tasty mixed dozen of Taylor’s wines. This initiative is a simple, yet effective way to increase engagement. Giving people the incentive to share and promote their photo and bring more eyes into the newspaper and online is a clever way to leverage the enduring popularity and status of having your photo in the news. The results were excellent. In the first six hours after the gallery was uploaded, the Northern Argus had 53,685 page views and over the four days the voting was open, there were 111,116 views. Using Facebook Live streaming to push people to the website and selling advertising within the galleries also improved the commercial success of the initiative. This initiative shows that you don’t have to go to elaborate or expensive lengths to use simple human nature to grow engagement. I believe looking at a broader competition for the best photo of the month, or year, would sustain the engagement and continually bring new people in. Equally Commended – The Plains
Producer and The Recorder The entries of the Plains Producer and The Recorder are equally commended for their commitment to local safety and information during the severe storm and blackout in late September 2016. Regional newspapers can use their online presence to reinforce their relevance in a crisis or an emergency unlike any other form of regional media. Electronic and news media is so metrocentric now that the ability to respond to regional issues is diminished and in some ways non-existent. The great thing about these newspapers is that during a crisis affecting their local area they had local people on the ground who were engaging with other local people. Their news gatherers were still at work, unlike other media which at the time the storm struck, were either closed, or centralised in other places. These newspapers were relentless in supporting their local communities with information, news and great content from the start and right through to the end of the emergency situation. Both newspapers reported significant engagement across their social and website platforms. One video of flooding near Port Wakefield supplied by a reader and posted on the Plains Producer Facebook reached 1.6 million people, with 380,000 page views. The long term benefit of such engagement is to reinforce those newspapers as the first call for local, relevant and immediate news coverage of local issues.
Country Press SA NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2016
Success in PRESS 15
Todd is a great asset to a vibrant newsroom
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BEST YOUNG JOURNALIST Todd Lewis By Border Watch editor Jason Wallace
Todd Lewis, 23, joined The Border Watch as a journalism graduate on August 23, 2016. He was assigned the police, emergency services and court round and flourished from his FOOTBALL first day. Showing maturity beyond his years, he quickly settled in and made a difficult set of reporting duties his own. As police and emergency P32 services reporter, Todd produced a number of hard-hitting front page lead articles ranging from Mt Gambier resident Ian Thornley, 54, being reunited with ambulance staff who saved his life after a heart attack, to prominent local lawyer Chris Ryan losing his home after a devastating house fire. He has also been reporting on major road accidents in the region, including a crash between two school buses in Burrungule and road accidents during the police's Operation Safe Holidays. When the bus crash occurred, Todd reported to the editor’s office within moments of the scanner message appearing and arrived on the scene around the same time as emergency crews. Although it did not turn out to be a major incident with only minor injuries recorded, he did not hesitate to rush to the scene, camera in hand, despite the type trauma that he may have been confronted with on arrival. A stand-out story from his emergency services round remains his coverage of the Penola crash in which four young men lost their lives in November and he is often available at a moment’s notice after hours to respond to an emergency incident, showing a deep dedication to journalism and enthusiasm for the job. Todd proved himself to be a proactive journalist, looking for stories in addition to those assigned to him and acting quickly when news breaks. He needs little supervision and is prepared to work after-
# PROMNITZ TO LEAD LEAGUE
hours, including on stories he uncovered himself. He writes well for his experience level and takes good photographs – going in close to the action. In addition he looks for additional sources for stories, knocking on doors and getting information from bystanders at crime or accident scenes – not just from official sources. It is not unusual for him to return from a crash scene with comment from crews at the incident, a driver and onlooker. Often in the past, reporters have returned with just a picture taken from some distance. Spending a good deal of his time in the Mt Gambier magistrates and district courts, Todd has shown the same skills and tenacity as at crime or fire scenes.
Court reporter With court reporting comes a range of responsibilities and many rules and regulations to adhere to. Todd has proven himself a very capable court reporter covering some of the major cases in the city, including the sentencing of ForestrySA chief executive Adrian Hatch, quickly gaining the confidence of other stakeholders including the magistrate, prosecutors and lawyers. He has also tried his hand at feature writing with great success, a prime example being a two-part series on local Vietnam War veteran Garry von Stanke. A stand-out attribute of Todd is his ability to balance his stories with emotion. This is particularly true in police and court reporting where one can very easily just stick to the prosecution's point of view, forgetting to include elements of the defence. All-in-all, Todd is a young journalist who has all the attributes to craft a successful career in the profession. Despite his independence, he is an easy-going team player and a great asset to the newsroom.
The Leader’s director of sale and marketing Darren Robinson said the shop locally feature was the most successful campaign run by the paper in its 99-year history.
JUDGE’S COMMENTS Advertising features are time consuming and can put a strain on already overworked staff. But they are a great source of revenue. Entries for this year’s Best Advertising Feature were, on the whole, of good quality. They showed a lot of thought and care had gone in to their production, getting the best outcome possible for advertisers and readers. My first move when judging Best advertising Feature Award is to look through entries quickly to see which features “stand out from the crowd” and draw my attention. I guess it depends on the amount of space allocated – and dollars generated – to the feature as to whether there is a front page drawcard. It is paramount that something catches my eye and draws my attention. Not just another page/s to flick over. Good photos used well always appeal to me and bad photos or bad production make me cringe. And editorial that is pertinent and readable is important. So with this in mind I made my selection. THIRD: The Bunyip A quirky feature which had obviously called on reader support to answer the question: “You know you’re from Gawler when ...” SECOND: The Southern Argus The Men of the Southern Argus celebrating 150 years, gave important recognition from the current owners to those who had gone before them and those who will come after them. There was certainly plenty of lengthy stories for readers to enjoy. A huge amount of effort was put in to this 150year celebration and adverts clearly showed the esteem the paper is held in throughout its circulation area. FIRST: The Leader. Director of advertising sales & marketing, Darren Robinson, obviously put in many hours over and above normal working hours to make
Margaret Manuel DR11795
CAROLS IN MEMORIAL PARK Todd Lewis, left, receives his award from Federal MP Tony Passin.
IT’S A GREAT TIME TO SHOP LOCAL
Spend instore and go in the draw to win a new 5-door Holden Spark!
SHOP AT THESE PARTICIPATING BUSINESSES FOR A CHANCE TO WIN • Angaston Pharmacy • Angaston Motors • Assured Class Electrical • Auto Masters • Barossa Arts and Convention Centre • Barossa Bowland • Barossa Carpet Court • Barossa Chemplus • Barossa Chemplus One • Barossa Clothing Co. • Barossa Communications • Barossa Dental • Barossa Discount Tyres
• Barossa Music Centre • Barossa Nursery • Barossa Physiotherapy • Barossa Renovations • Barossa Valley Golf Club • Barossa Valley Hire • Barossa Window Fashions • C.O. Juncken Builders • Community Helpers Nuriootpa • Defined Interiors • Floors Floors Floors Barossa • G4 Guitar School • Graetz Irrigation • Harcourts Barossa Valley
• Heinrich Autobody • Julie Toth Real Estate • Key Financial Planners • Kuchel Landscape Supplies • Nuriootpa Chicken Centre • Office National • Priceline Pharmacy Tanunda • Roaring 40’s • Rogasch Windows • Schulz Butchers • Specsavers Optometrists Nuriootpa • SP Window Solutions • Stainless Engineering and Maintenance
• Steinborner Barossa Holden • Sunrise Bakeries • Tanunda Cellars • Tax Matters • The Clubhouse • The Co-op • The Income Tax Professionals • The Leader newspaper • Thorpy’s Never Ending Bargains • Truro Agencies • Wohlers • Yourtech Services
Proudly supported by:
Steinborner Barossa Holden By submitting an entry into this competition entrants consent to receive promotional and other marketing messages from the Promoter (including messages sent electronically for an unlimited period of time). Entrants will be able to opt-out at any time by following the instructions included in each message sent by the Promoter. See www.barossaleader.com.au for full terms. Open to South Australian residents. One entry per Eligible Product Purchase, defined in full terms. Competition opens 01/06/16 at 08:00 AM and closes 30/06/16 at 04:00 PM. Winner drawn 01/07/16 at 11:00 AM at Leader Newspapers Pty Ltd, 34 Dean Street, Angaston SA. The total prize pool valued at up to $16,572 (incl. GST). Winner notified by email. The Promoter is Leader Newspapers Pty Ltd (ABN 570 080 92 779) of 34 Dean Street, Angaston SA 5353. Authorised Under: SA Licence No. T16/651.
20 - “The Leader”, Wednesday, June 1, 2016
sure this feature achieved as much exposure as possible running consecutively over one month. By shopping local and entering the competition, shoppers were in the draw to win a 5-door Holden Spark. Darren said in a letter with his entry: “To date this feature was the most successful campaign within our 99-year history. “The participating businesses were overwhelmed with the response.” Shop Local Barossa – Win a Car promotion, is a winner. The Barossa’s Favourite Newspaper
Tania Gordon, left, from Norske Skog, Darren Robinson from The Leader with judge and Country Press SA life member Margaret Manuel.
16 Success in PRESS
Country Press SA NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2016
BEST SPORT PHOTO
The Courier
Now that’s what I call a mark! JUDGE’S COMMENTS
Photographer Mark Liebich
Sport is woven into the social fabric of country communities and an enterprising coverage helps retain and boost newspaper sales. The variety and quality of the large number of entries in the Best Sports Photo section showed editors are striving for constant improvement. The best photos were not only technically sound but had that essential wow factor. The fast speed, video and auto focus of the modem digital cameras make life easier for photo-journalists but ability to “read the play”, seek the best angle and apply creative instinct produces the star photos with real impact The winners this year stood out from a generally high standard and editors are encouraging their staff with better cropping and placement. Entries included the usual array of summer and winter sports but The Northern Argus presented something different with a highly commended shot of a child dumped from his pony at the Clare Rodeo. FIRST: The Courier “High rise” was brilliant action in Hills Football League achieving maximum impact with skilled camera work capturing a spectacular mark against two defenders. This was a football masterpiece. SECOND: Naracoorte Herald. Unusual depiction of jubilation from fieldsmen, the desperate lunge of a batsmen being run-out made this a memorable cricket illustration. THIRD: Yorke Peninsula Country Times Away from the traditional sporting scene this dirt kart racing crash portrayed the thrills and spills with perfect timing.
BEST SPORT STORY
Murray Pioneer
Sport
28 SPORT
Lloyd Jenkins
www.murraypioneer.com.au Tuesday, November 22, 2016
9 771839 311001
Raiders return
Dillon Millard was one of several local players to take on Central District as part of the temporarily reformed Riverland Raiders at Waikerie on Saturday night. FULL STORY PAGE 25 PHOTO: Grant Schwartzkopff
Lyrup Football Club’s 2017 season is officially...
ON THIN ICE NICK DILLON and JEREMY ROCHOW
THE Lyrup Football Club is officially on notice for the 2017 RFL Independent season following the league’s decision to hand down a suspended 12-month sentence to the embattled club. The Lions have come under fire since being involved in an incident which saw umpire Jordan Wright allegedly threatened by player Travis Wilson following the preliminary final in August. Wilson faced court yesterday over the incident, but had the case
adjourned for a second time until December 19. The RFL recently delivered its findings following an inquiry into reports of unacceptable conduct during and after the 2016 preliminary final. The league commissioners found that Lyrup had breached the RFL’s code of conduct, including inappropriate social behaviour in the presence and hearing of other spectators (including children); harassment of, and uttering of racially derogatory words towards an umpire; and threats of violence towards umpires.
The RFL also found that Lyrup officials failed to intervene to stop or moderate offending behaviour and had been derelict in their collective responsibility, thereby allowing the game to come into disrepute. The club was sent a letter by the RFL dictating a number of terms that must be followed to guarantee entry for the 2017 season. RFL chairman Gary Pfeiler said the club was aware it was on thin ice next year. “They understand that they have to have respect from within their supporters not to carry on,” he said.
“Lyrup hosts the grand final, so if they’re rubbed out during the year they’d miss out on a home grand final (opportunity). “Hopefully it’s a good chance for them to showcase their club. “They’ve taken the initiative and that’s why they’re allowed to continue.” The terms dictated to the Lions were: That club president Vivi Healy stand down and not be appointed to any official role within the club for the whole of the 2017 season. That certain people, believed to be Wilson and his father Cecil,
be banned from attending any RFL-sanctioned game during 2017. That the club’s committee be respsonsible for ensuring that the behaviour of the club’s supporters and spectators does not fall below a standard which may again result in a breach of the league’s code of conduct The club takes such steps as are reasonably necessary to ensure that the umpires’ facilities at the Lyrup ground are suitable for purpose. Mr Pfeiler said Lyrup’s response to the letter was encouraging. Continued page 26
Journalist Jeremy Rochow from the Murray Pioneer wrote the best sports story with Nick Dillon.
JUDGE’S COMMENTS FIRST: The Murray Pioneer Reporting on subjects or issues where you confront resistance or abuse is never easy but journalists Nick Dillon and Jeremy Rochow forged ahead to produce a well-written and informative piece. Importantly, the relevant parties were given the opportunity to provide comment and in the interests of fairness, both sides of the story were given equal footing. Overall it was a ‘strong’ back page or lead sports story. SECOND: The Bunyip A great example of how to use a deeply personal and emotive storyline to highlight or raise the profile of a broader issue in society, which in this instance was suicide, following the passing of a
Ian Shuttleworth
Reporter Steph Konatar appears to have shown compassion and sensitivity while conducting interviews and in turn gleaned insightful and meaningful quotes which were put to good use. In summary, the article was a quality piece of journalism that was thought provoking for the reader. THIRD: The Loxton News A well-written, reflective and interesting piece outlining the plight of a local sporting club. The story flowed nicely with cleverlychosen quotes. Not only did it highlight the problem but the article also looked to the future to provide the reader with an insight into how those involved would remedy the situation.