success in press
COUNTRY PRESS SA
NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2012
Life membership for tireless contributor recognises…
Trevor’s endeavour COUNTRY Press SA stalwart and former president, Trevor McAuliffe, was awarded Life Membership at the Country Press SA Port Lincoln conference on March 15. His significant contribution to the industry was recognised at the SA Power Networks Country Newspapers Awards Dinner at the Port Lincoln Hotel. “Anyone who has had any involvement with Country Press SA over the past two decades would be aware of the significant role played by Trevor McAuliffe,” said incoming Country Press SA president, David Wright. Trevor was born in Port Augusta and started his newspaper career with the Willson family in Whyalla 25 years ago on April 5, 1988. He continued with Rural Press Limited when they purchased the Willson family’s newspaper interests and today works for Fairfax Media Limited. Trevor has served on the Country Press SA executive committee for 18 years and has been a great contributor during each of those years. He served a double term as president of Country Press SA
from 2003 – 2007 and has been a great support to his wife Marilyn in her role as administration officer of the association for the past seven years. “He’s been a mentor and friend to many of us,” said outgoing president, Trevor Channon. Both Trevor Channon and David Wright are work colleagues of Trevor McAuliffe at Fairfax Media. Before a large crowd of member newspaper proprietors, staff and industry supporters, Trevor Channon presented Trevor McAuliffe with a gold watch, acknowledging his contribution. “He has been a worthy ambassador for our association when meeting with politicians, public servants, clients and agencies,” Trevor Channon said. “Above all we’ve enjoyed his sense of humour, his love of his family including his six children and his passion for football.”
Newly inducted life member of Country Press SA, Trevor McAuliffe with his wife Marilyn.
Country Press SA
PORT LINCOLN CONFERENCE
2013
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Country Press South Australia NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2012 www.sacountrypress.com.au
Best Newspaper over 6000
The Border Watch
L-R: Brett Kennedy, David Gilbert, Dennis Jackson, Michael Naismith, Rhys Stuckey, Glenys Collins, Stacey Jaensch, Charlene Riley, Robin Reid, Toni Elliott, Jo Puddy, Demi Hammond, Jason Wallace, Janet Pool, Sandra Morello, Christine Black, Connie Bates, Georgia Kelly-Bakker, Stan Brooker, Maria Hartnett, Karen Sweeney, Rikki Mount, Shane Quintel, Giulia Properi Porta, Rod Morris, John Scanlon, Luke Duff, Robbie Redding, Jamie Croker, Sam Dowdy.
Trifecta for Border Watch High quality news gathering and presentation shone through the entries in the over 6000 circulation section of the annual awards for newspaper excellence. Importantly, all newspapers have reacted positively to the demands of the digital revolution for flexible delivery of news and information while improving the standard of print performance. Clean layouts, striking images and professional use of colour in advertising and editorial stood out. Complementing efficient newspapers was increasing engagement of readers through websites and social media including Facebook and Twitter. Several newspapers had the initiative to launch e-editions at modest subscription rates or free during the year to enhance saturation of the marketplace. However, the traditional newspaper continues as the core business and the exceptional standard of entries in this high circulation section again made judging a real challenge, especially with the diverse range of journals including free and paid weeklies, bi-weeklies and four-times-a-week paper. As a regular judge, I am convinced this competition has stimulated the drive for excellence in newspaper production in this State. The best newspapers have improved steadily with well-written stories relevant to their readers and are presented with uncluttered layouts and top-class printing. With some decline in national advertising and
JUDGE’S COMMENTS
LLoyd Jenkins
Triple celebrations, Mount Gambier’s Dennis Jackson, Robin Reid and Jason Wallace. economic restraints in some regions the battle for revenue appears to have been offset to some extent by enterprising extension of features and special sections. Content is still king in serving the audience in town and district with sustained emphasis on community news delivery. One surprising
anomaly in entries studied was the absence of court reporting in all but one newspaper. People are entitled to know what is going on in the local justice system so perhaps editors should be reviewing their policy in this regard. In some papers attention to detail did not extend to including weather
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forecasts on the front page. Overall the competition was fierce as all newspapers in this section are well established publications with pride in serving their communities. Choosing the “Big Three” was time-consuming and difficult but special mention should be made of two highly commended
entries, The Leader and The Bunyip. These are high volume newspapers providing outstanding service in content and presentation. THIRD: Yorke Peninsula Country Times. This vibrant weekly saturates the towns and farming areas of the Yorke Peninsula with extensive coverage of news, social events and sport. Features are bright and entertaining. Local print control ensures the best in production of editorial and advertising. This is a newspaper with real community heart. SECOND: The Courier The proudly produced “Champion of the Hills” continues to deliver maximum impact with superb design front to back, crisp story-telling and a soundly compiles sports liftout. Creative photos and prominent weather graphics lift Page 1 and the many attractive features enhance the value to advertisers. Strong editorials underline advocacy on behalf of the community. FIRST: The Border Watch With four issues a week this prominent newspaper has virtually a daily operation demanding top level competency from the editorial, production and administration team. There were few weaknesses in the four weeks of issues submitted. Consistency is the hallmark with dramatic front pages, efficient flow of inside news, crime reporting and hard-hitting editorials. Professional features, creative advertising and extensive sport added to the complete package of a top newspaper.
success in press
Country Press South Australia NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2012 www.sacountrypress.com.au
3
Standard’s sparkling streak Ninth win on the trot for Murray Valley Standard THE Murray Valley Standard was crowned best newspaper, circulation between 2500 and 6000, at this year’s Country Press SA awards, held at the Port Lincoln Hotel. The win in front of 120 editors, advertising gurus and journalists from newspapers across country SA was the ninth in a row for The Standard, putting the pressure on to make it an even 10 in the coming year. Journalist Joanne Fosdike accepted the gong on the night, saying The Standard team hoped for another win but could not take the awards for granted no matter how many times they had won it before. “I was so proud to pick up this award on behalf of the dedicated
JUDGED BY
Best Newspaper 2500 – 6000
M.V. Standard
staff at The Standard,” she said. “We have a great paper we can all be proud of which is produced by journalists who are passionate for their community and the news, an editor who has a great eye for layout, brilliant production, advertising and support staff all under the watchful eye of general manager Trevor Channon.” “But it is also important to remember our readers - we couldn’t do any of it without their support.” Mr Channon said he was proud of the achievement. “It is a big award to win in this category,” he said. “All of our departments from our journalists to our printing team do a great job.”
Virgil Goncalves
“Consistent quality, content and layout” OF the 10 eligible newspapers, nine entered. Third place was shared by two papers. The Katherine Times used clear straps on top of pages, quirky photographs and intelligently displayed strong editorial copy for a major flood story. The Whyalla News incorporated regular editorials, the bonus of cartoons, ID tags on sports copy and generally clear, well-placed advertising. Strong front-page news stories ensured a high placing for runner-up
The Naracoorte Herald. Consistency of well-written features (Penola Bowling Club Reopening and Longridge Aged Care, for example) and mostly good quality photographs were other positives. Consistent quality content and layout as well as some solid investigative news stories tipped the scales towards the winner. Cropped and balanced action sports photos (within Tuesday issue lift-outs), “I remember when” profiles and some striking local adverts assisted to make The Murray Valley Standard a standout.
Murray Valley Standard journalist Joanne Fosdike and manager Trevor Channon proudly display their award.
Sponsor Juri Berzins from Bank SA, Murray Valley Standard journalist Joanne Fosdike, manager Trevor Channon and judge Virgil Goncalves.
Life Members * * * * * * * * * * * *
C M R Dumas W K Robinson L M Judell E G Sprigg C B O’Reilly W Gilmore Taylor J Liddy F W Hambidge H J Peake, OBE J F Power D T Tilbrook M G Hambidge D B Hann D H G Taylor R J C Willson P J Marston M R Townsend T F Ellis J D Pick P H G Taylor M S Manuel T J McAuliffe
The Courier Mount Barker The Leader Angaston Gladstone, Jamestown, Laura paper Naracoorte Herald & Border Chronicle Bordertown Country Press Association of SA Inc The Murray Pioneer Renmark Barossa & Light Herald Tanunda Murray Valley Standard Murray Bridge Naracoorte Herald Naracoorte Country Press Association of SA Inc Northern Argus Clare Murray Valley Standard Murray Bridge The Loxton News Loxton The Murray Pioneer Renmark Whyalla News Whyalla The Courier Mount Barker Country Press Association of SA Inc Yorke Peninsula Country Times Kadina The River News Waikerie The Murray Pioneer Renmark Plains Producer Balaklava Fairfax Regional Media * Deceased
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Country Press South Australia NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2012 www.sacountrypress.com.au
A long time between drinks Best Newspaper under 25000
South Eastern Times
The South Eastern Times THE South Eastern Times made history when it was named the best newspaper in regional South Australia with a circulation of under 2500 copies. It is believed to be the first time since 1966 that the Millicent district newspaper has won a Country Press South Australia accolade for newspaper of the year. “This is a big win for The South Eastern Times staff and for Millicent and the broader region,” editor Jason Wallace said. “Country newspapers have a unique place in the market as they are all about the communities they serve, reflecting the people, challenges and achievements of the region. “We rely on the support of the community, including advertisers, contributors, readers and people prepared to cooperate with reporters and photographers - this is a win not just for the paper, but the community we reflect.” The newspaper also took out a second placing in the “best front page” category with the November 6 edition featuring the demolition of the Tantanoola Pulp Mill recovery boiler. Pictures supplied by Steve Chapple, accompanying a story by reporter Chris Oldfield (now retired) and layout by subeditor John Scanlon impressed judge Brian Barnett. He awarded first prize in the category to The River News, but said the South Eastern-Times was a strong contender for the accolade with a “well-balanced, clean front page with good, clear pointers and good colour handling without having a news day depicting disaster or personal tragedy”. “It managed to publish a newspaper with a front page that would make me want to pick it up and buy it,” he said. General manager Robin Reid said The South Eastern Times had recently introduced changes to further improve the newspaper, extending coverage of the community and minimising errors, to
NUMBER ONE: Reporter “Fred” Smith, general manager Robin Reid, advertising consultant Katherine Taylor, reporter Brooke Littlewood, editor Jason Wallace, administration officer Caroline Hammat and advertising manager Dennis Jackson celebrate The South Eastern Times’“best newspaper” win at the Country Press SA awards. build on the success. He said the recent appointment of Fred Smith to the journalism team had also led to the community welcoming the return of the highlyexperienced reporter, adding to the strength of The South Eastern Times. Mr Wallace said delivering a paper of the standard of The South Eastern Times was a team effort and praised former editor Janet Pool, who was at the helm for a large part of the year. He also highlighted the achievements of current staff Caroline Hammat, Katherine Taylor, Brooke Littlewood, Connie Bates, Jo Puddy
and Mr Scanlon, along with subeditors Luke Duff and Stan Brooker and the sports team of Rod Morris and Brett Kennedy, along with former staff Ms Oldfield, Briohny Robinson and Rosie Gore. Mr Wallace said the production, printing, management and administrative team at The Border Watch also made strong contributions to the success of the paper. Mount Gambier’s The Border Watch was named South Australia’s BankSA best newspaper, taking out the major category for titles with circulation over 6000, at the awards night. The win was the third consecutive
accolade for the newspaper, which is also edited by Mr Wallace. Country Press SA and the Port Lincoln Times hosted the 2012 Newspaper Awards Dinner at the Port Lincoln Hotel on Friday night. The gala dinner was attended by more than 120 people representing newspapers across the state, sponsors and guests. Murray Bridge’s Murray Valley Standard won the BankSA Best Newspaper 2500-6000 Circulation category for the ninth year in a row. Country Press SA president David Wright said the awards rec-
ognised the outstanding efforts of country newspapers in serving their local communities, while offering a benchmark for continued improvement and development. Awards were also presented in 11 other categories covering news and sports articles and photographs, editorial writing, community profile and advertisements. Among the winners was The Border Watch and South Eastern Times sports editor Rod Morris for the best sports story category. Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation Leon Bignell paid tribute to country newspapers for their thorough coverage of local sport.
Readers, advertisers, get great value MY first impressions while reading the 11 entries in this section were that readers and advertisers were getting great value. By the end of judging it had become apparent that the overall improvement in the four disciplines I was required to judge compared to the previous occasion I had assessed the category was significant. No more so than in the advertising content and placement. Most of the entries produced outstanding graphic art work and colour in their local advertisements, particularly in the advertising features for local events or holiday programs. Some of them like the Eyre Peninsula Tribune’s “What to do at the Kimba Show”, The River News’ “Easter in the Riverland” and The South Eastern Times’ “Holam
JUDGE’S COMMENTS Summer Cup”, amongst a number of others, were examples of very professional work. Also, an eight-page feature on hay making in the Plains Producer was compiled and written with vibrant eye-catching advertisements designed to attract all readers. The editorial and photographic disciplines make up half the judging marks. Not one newspaper let itself down in this area. Editorial writing was outstanding across the board but in The Pennant, Plains Producer and The Islander, it was consistently outstanding. Opinion pages in most entries
Graham Gorrel
were strong with good space devoted to letters. Early general news stories were well crafted. Sports coverage was outstanding throughout with football and netball grand final features in The Mid North Broadcaster and The South Eastern Times stand-outs. Plenty of pictures, especially groups at various functions and of sports teams, were frequently used to advantage. However, if there was a down point in the whole competition, many pictures, either coloured or black and white, were sometimes too dark. Production people should take care to improve this aspect _ there is good technical advice easily
available in the industry. Overall, this was a great section to judge and the entries were a showcase for Country Press South Australian _ indeed for the newspaper industry generally. FIRST: The South Eastern Times: An excellent newspaper with strong front pages and early general news pages. The newspaper always had a strong editorial opinion, sensibly written and balanced. Good advertising features with well produced local advertisements were a feature. Pictorial, especially in the excellent sports section, was a highlight. The category produced many top class entries so the winner can
be proud to be at the top of them. SECOND: The Islander: The newspaper has been a top performer in this section for some years and again produced examples of what a voice it has become in the community. Right on top of all issues with balanced reporting and a compelling editorial stance, the newspaper very clearly had strong community support judging from its letters section. THIRD: Plains Producer: An excellent read with its journalists on top of the community news and events. Also keeps a strong standard of reporting school news and achievements of students which is a good way to encourage and maintain readers. A two-page tribute to the Wakefield regional council’s CEO was a good example of community reporting.
success in press
Country Press South Australia NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2012 www.sacountrypress.com.au
High-end entries set the bar high JUDGE’S COMMENTS THE top half of the entries was very good, a few of them top shelf, but the bottom half fell away a bit. After the high standard of the past few years, overall I thought the standard this year slipped slightly. While I am judging, it’s doubtful if just standing with a subject, or photos of record, will win best news photograph. Imagination, creation, action. That is what is needed. Once again, some entries were beautifully presented and I single out The Mt Barker Courier here. The Courier’s entries are always of a high standard and this year’s grinning, winning horse is no exception. However, once again, some entries seem thrown together at the last minute. There was good imagination used by the Port Lincoln Times for the petrol story and The Penola Pennant had an archaeologist shoveling furiously for MacKillop relics. Both good. Some dramatic, on the spot news entries included fire pictures from the Katherine Times and Coastal Leader. The West Coast Sentinel and Flinders News had dramatic helicopter pictures, one a burnt out shell and the other a medical emergency at a football match. All these had merit, but not the X factor. Both the Barrier Daily Truth and The Islander came up with
Best News Photograph
5
Murray Pioneer
Barry O’Brien
their usual high standard entries. I thought that while the Truth’s entry had beautiful expressions on the father and daughter we could see, it was spoilt by the back view of the other daughter. The Islander’s picture was delightful, but may have been a little better if the little girl wasn’t staring straight at the camera which, I thought, took the eye away from the sleeping pig. The Border Watch featured a bright interaction expression between a little girl and an alpaca. Third place to the Port Pirie Recorder for the cyclists riding off along a multitude of hands. Photographer Celeste Lustosa was positioned perfectly to create a well composed picture. First and second placegetters became a battle of the expressions. Both had imagination, creation and action, both beautiful pictures. It took me an age, but in the end I gave second place to The Herald for the hair raising little girl on the bungee ride with the gorgeous smile taken by Shaun Kowald. If I had a criticism, and it is very minor, she is right of centre looking out of the photograph. The winner was a great eye catching picture, perfectly composed, full of fun and action. First place to The Murray Pioneer for the abseiling student taken by Will Slee.
Will’s top shot seals great year for Pioneer
Murray Pioneer editor, Paul Mitchell (left), with photographer, Will Slee, display the front page of their award-winning entry.
THE Murray Pioneer has again tasted success at the SA Country Press Awards, held in Port Lincoln on Friday night. The Pioneer won Best News Photo for Will Slee’s photograph of Renmark High School student Bree Bitomsky abseiling – watched by her fellow students – during the Pinnacle of Terror program conducted at the school last year. The photograph ran on the front page of the August 24 edition of the paper. “The judges obviously
loved Will’s photo as much as we did,” said Pioneer editor Paul Mitchell. “It took a lot of doing, but it was clearly worth the effort.” Mr Mitchell said Mr Slee – who schooled in Waikerie – joined The Pioneer team midway through 2011. “He’s worked very hard since then and his photos have just been improving all the time,” Mr Mitchell said. “During his relatively short time with us, he’s earned praise from the community for the friendly, helpful and
efficient way he deals with all the Riverland people that he photographs.” Mr Mitchell said the “nice story” from journalist Ryneisha Bollard and the “well constructed front page” had complemented the winning photograph. Completing a successful night for the Taylor Group of Newspapers, The Pioneer’s sister paper, The River News, won best front page for its entry centred on the controversial proposed closure of the Cadell ferry.
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
success in press
Country Press South Australia NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2012 www.sacountrypress.com.au
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1 Bonnie Puckridge, Billie Harrison, Olivia Barnes, Kimberlee Meier, and Linda Doudle. 2 Manager of the Port Lincoln Times Chris Coote with his wife Amanda. 3 Country Press life member Trevor McAuliffe with Minister Leon Bignell. 4 L-R: Peter Kirwan, Bob Yeates, Chris McPherson, Graham Gorrell, Tania Gordon, and Matt Sharkady. 5 Alix Quinn, Jasmine Green, and Kayleigh Bruce from Whyalla News. 6 Tiffany Venning with Trevor Channon, Murray Valley Standard manager. 7 Paul Sayner, Brissett Rollers and Chris Tierney, Agfa Graphics. 8 Kate Petersen HWR and Dennis Jackson Advertising Manager, The Border Watch.
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Country Press South Australia NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2012 www.sacountrypress.com.au
Renee Day, Victor Harbor Times, and Dylan Smith, The Recorder.
Marina Hill and Iris Lucena, Port Lincoln Times Billie Harrison, Kimberlee Meier, Bonnie Puckridge, Port Lincoln Times.
Kiah Sando, Whyalla News, Jason Wallace, Border Watch.
Shauna and Gordon Black, The Islander.
Sue Roesler, Maya Mrvelj and Heather Ettridge, Port Lincoln Times
Tina Traeger, EP Tribune, Olivia Barnes, EP Tribune.
Ben Taylor, Taylor Group, Margaret Betts, The Bunyip, and Rob McLean, The Bunyip.
Clayton and Etta Bester, Barossa Light Herald.
Life members and former proprietors of the Port Lincoln Times Joan Lindpere and John Hill.
Elizabeth Grove and Norman Marsdon from the Courier.
Joan Tainsh and Natasha Ewendt, Port Lincoln Times
Country Press South Australia NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2012 www.sacountrypress.com.au
Andrew and Merridy Manuel, The Plains Producer.
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Jeremy Wohling, The Times, Bob Minge, SA Power Networks, and Mark Brownley, of SA Power Networks.
Michael and Kaylene Ellis of the Yorke Peninsula Country Times.
Paul McEvey, Country Press Association, and Joanne Fosdike, of Murray Valley Standard. Kaylene Ellis, of YP Country Times, Mary Gannon, of the Colac Herald and Gaye McPherson of McPherson Publishing.
Lesley and Virgil Goncalves.
The Hon John Dawkins, MLC, and Rob McLean, of the Bunyip.
Jarrad Delaney, West Coast Sentinel, Carl Pfeiffer, Murray Bridge, Nathan Bolam, Fairfax Rural Media IT. Jenny and Russell Duncan of SA Power Networks
Brooke DuBois, The Times, Victor Harbor, and Julie Minge, SA Power Networks.
Helen and John Aplin, of SA Power Networks.
Sue Roesler, Heather Ettridge and Marina Hill, Port Lincoln Times.
Dorothy Staruchowicz, media Super and Karen Strain, Media Super.
10 success in press
BEST ADVERTISEMENT PRICED PRODUCT: Trevor Channon from sponsor Fairfax Print and Distribution and Tony Mangan (on behalf of The Leader)
Country Press South Australia NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2012 www.sacountrypress.com.au
BEST ADVERTISING FEATURE: Judge Brian Barnett, Renee Day & Brooke DuBois from The Times, Victor Harbor and sponsor Tania Gordon from Norske Skog.
BEST NEWSPAPER 2,500 - 6,000 CIRCULATION: Sponsor Juri Berzins from Bank SA, Joanne Fosdike and Trevor Channon from The Murray Valley Standard and Judge Virgil Goncalves.
BEST SPORTS PHOTOGRAPH: David Wright from the Northern Argus and Bob Yeates President of Country Press Australia.
BEST ADVERTISEMENT PRICED PRODUCT: Tony Mangan representing The Leader with sponsor Matt Sharkady from Goss Graphics.
BEST NEWS PHOTOGRAPH : Ben Taylor from the Murray Pioneer and sponsor Lindsay Cope from Graphic Art Supplies.
BEST SUPPLEMENT: Tony Mangan (on behalf of The Leader) and sponsor Paul Sayner from Brissett Rollers.
BEST SPORTS STORY: Sponsor Craig Tierney from Agfa Graphics and Jason Wallace from The Border Watch.
EDITORIAL WRITING: Shauna Black from the Islander.
EXCELLENCE IN JOURNALISM: Kimberlee Meier from The Port Lincoln Times and sponsor Dorothy Staruchowicz from Media Super.
BEST NEWSPAPER (OVER 6,000 CIRCULATION): Sponsor Juri Berzins from Bank SA, Robin Reid, Jason Wallace and Dennis Jackson from The Border Watch.
BEST FRONT PAGE: Judge Brian Barnett, Ben Taylor representing The River News and Life Member Margaret Manuel.
COMMUNITY PROFILE: Michael Ellis from The YP Country Times and sponsor Hon. John Dawkins MLC.
success in press
Country Press South Australia NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2012 www.sacountrypress.com.au
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Great community advocate
INCORPORATING
COLOUR
Best Front Page
The River News PRICE: $1.30 THURSDAY, JUNE 14, 2012
FERRY FIGHT
TONIGHT BY CRAIG TRELOAR
Hundreds will unite over the “very serious and dire impact” of the Cadell ferry's foreshadowed closure at tonight's community meeting in Cadell. The State Gover nment last week announced it intends to cease the ferry service in less than three weeks time to save $400,000 p.a. The announcement has sparked widespread dissent throughout the local community.
FULL STORY PAGE 5 LETTERS/HISTORY PAGE 4
MORE than 200 people gathered at Cadell ferry on Saturday to protest its pending closure. The community also used the opportunity to discuss the impacts of the decision and form a united voice, which it plans to air at tonight's meeting in Cadell. PHOTO: Craig Treloar
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THERE were a large proportion of entries that were very close to gaining an award. Selecting the best front page is obviously a subjective matter. Different people have different perceptions of what they believe to be good or attractive. My interpretation of a good front page is if it makes me want to pick the newspaper up and read more of it. The front page of a newspaper should promote itself as if it were the shop front of a retail store. It should have its most important story emblazoned on the front page, as a shopkeeper would have their best sale item promoted in their shop window and it should also promote what is inside the paper, inviting the reader to look at more than the front page. Not all newspapers, but most, carried pointers on their front pages to invite their readers into other features of the newspaper. In some cases there was no room or need to have those pointers when the front page story and photograph were of significant value that they alone carried the invitation to read more inside. Simple and minor improvements by some newspapers could lift them into a winning category. The Transcontinental had a very good front page picture of a raging fire and the silhouette of the journalist in front of the flames. The colour of the masthead was swallowed up in the picture which detracted a little, but there was an annoyance that ground on me. The photograph caption read: “View of our journo who joined the volunteers.” It would have been much more appropriate and professional to say a view of our reporter, or view of our journalist (and name them), rather than just “journo”. The editor of the Loxton News had to deal with an additional 8 cm x 5 col advertisement on the page which created a design obstacle that is very difficult to overcome. It is something that is usually out of the hands of the editor, while the responsibility of the appearance of the page remains very much theirs. The Gawler Bunyip had a striking front page with a large close up image of a cat’s face. The image was well cropped with an accompanying story about calling for a cat ban for the district. It also had a strong story about a local soldier who had been killed in Afghanistan. What let the page down was the squeezing in of another less important political leadership story that should have been located on an inside page. It made it look like this third story had to be squeezed in somewhere and the front page was where it should be go, detracting from an otherwise very good front page. The Border Watch published a very clean, balanced and neat front page. Its handling of colour and its promotional pointers were excellent. It deserved an honorable mention in this category. Third place went to the Yorke Peninsula Country Times, which published a well balanced front page with a photograph of the Country Fire Service captain in amongst the rubble of an hotel which had burnt to the ground.
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JUDGE’S COMMENTS The publication provided enough information on the front page with good, neat layout that would invite readers inside the book. It also had good promotional pointers to other sections of the newspaper. Second place went to the South Eastern Times, which managed to produce a well balanced, clean front
page with good, clear pointers and good colour handling without having a news day depicting disaster or personal tragedy. It managed to publish a newspaper with a front page that would make me want to pick it up and buy it. I may have been even a little more excited about the page if the main image had depicted the Kimberly-
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$9.90 Brian Barnett Clark building falling down and not the building just prior to the explosion. The River News was the winner of the Best Front Page for 2012, as it displayed community action and community interaction. Its front page was simple with a picture of over 200 people prepared to fight for their facilities.
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The heading “Ferry Fight Tonight” was clear and concise and left nobody guessing what the story was and what might be in the pages of that issue. It had a small lead in story to what was inside, and it had the benefit of good timing — the community meeting was on the night of the date of issue of the paper. It was a font page that would make anybody want to pick it up and read it.
12 success in press
Country Press South Australia NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2012 www.sacountrypress.com.au
Content, relevance a sign of the Times Judging Best Advertising Feature was a wonderful challenge for me. While all 28 entries submitted were of a good standard there were about 10 that well and truly caught my attention as high quality productions that ticked all of the boxes. Some of the entries lacked creativity in design, but still held together enough to get their message across to the audience. The challenge for all editors and sales managers is to make advertising features interesting to readers. It is all very well to publish advertising features to help meet revenue targets, but unless they are produced well enough to be of value and relevance to the reader they are doing your publication an injustice. If you can produce a feature that is editorially interesting and relevant, the advertising will be easier to sell and the product will be able to hold its own within the pages of your book.
Victor Harbor Times Best Advertising Feature JUDGE’S COMMENTS By Brian Barnett Of the top 10 entries most were well thought out with creative design and good colour, but some fell a little short in the quality and sometimes quantity of editorial within them. The Islander, for example produced a four-page Aurora Ozone Hotel Chronicle feature which was well designed, produced with a “retro” newspaper look. It was well done for a small newspaper, and I know the editor was claiming she had little time in which to produce it — I think I have heard that one before— but the centre-spread consisted solely of the hotel’s menu which could have been made a lot smaller and more editorial could have supported what was otherwise an excellent feature.
The Angaston Leader produced a 2-page “Preparing for School Formal” feature. Its photography, design and colour printing was excellent, but it barely had enough editorial content in it to qualify it for an “Advertising Feature”. The Katherine Times produced an excellent 16-page “Christmas Shopping Guide” which had editorial supporting advertisements throughout the feature. It was neat, comprehensive, and overall very well produced. The Katherine Times deserves an honourable mention for its effort. THIRD place goes to a paper that produced a four-page fashion feature instigated as a guide to St Patrick’s Day Races. The layout
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was well done. It was creative and interesting with good quality locally taken photographs throughout. The editorial was localised and relevant to the feature, although editorially it didn’t satisfy me enough to rank a higher podium finish. Third place goes to The Barrier Daily Truth. SECOND place goes to a small newspaper that has well and truly mixed it with the big boys and girls. This newspaper published an eightpage anniversary feature that ticks all the boxes. It was a traditional but well laid out feature with a strong front cover, good quality editorial and well designed supporting advertisements. It catered for its readership and its advertisers both editorially and pictorially. Second
place goes to The Eyre Peninsula Tribune. FIRST Place is awarded to a publication that produced a very comprehensive and interesting 12page Home Guide. The idea of a Home Guide is not new or innovative, but the way this newspaper approached and produced this feature was exemplary. It is very easy when producing a multiple page home feature to fill a few editorial holes with generic, regurgitated home renovation tips. There was none of that in this publication. It clearly showed that the editorial team was backing the feature, and there was significant advertising support to make it a healthy revenue raiser. The feature was aimed at sustainable living which made it particularly topical. The layout was not avant garde but it had content and relevance, and it was that content and relevance that made it a worthy winner. First place goes to the Victor Harbor Times.
“The Leader”, Wednesday, October 17, 2012 - 15
FIRST: The Leader Newspaper. Darren’s entry was a standout in this category. His advert was clear and concise in delivering the clients offering. A good use of space, without overcrowding, but still offering relevant information. Clear pricing that reflects total savings, clear images of product, detailed features of each offering and a strong headline aimed to catch the reader’s interest. Note: Darren packaged his entry professionally and provided his detailed rationale for designing the advert the way he did, as well as support testimonial letter from client. Second: Yorke Peninsula Country Times. This series of adverts are directly aimed at selling a single product at an eyecatching price and making that price stand out strongly. Well thought out headlines, although simple, are catchy and have a bit of fun. The product imagery has been well selected and shows off a quality product at presumably a great price. A simple but effective range of
JUDGE’S COMMENTS Neil Holthouse ads that enhance the product offering, and therefore the client’s brand. All key aspects of an advert in this category have been ticked off…what is it, how much is it, who is selling it, how much for and where are they! Third: The Roxby Downs Sun This advert has not tried to ‘oversell’ its offering. A nice photograph showing quality furniture items with a strong headline that speaks directly to the reader. Bold pricing placed alongside each item is designed to stand out and not be lost in a lot of clutter. The advert has been well laid out and highlights what is on offer, who is selling it and where they are. Anyone in the market for furniture would be enticed to this store to see what other quality items they may have.
success in press
Country Press South Australia NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2012 www.sacountrypress.com.au
13
Clean sweep by The Leader Best Advert - Branding
The Leader
Darren Robinson advertising manager for The Leader newspaper proudly displays the paper’s three advertising awards.
FIRST: The Leader Newspaper. Darren spent time in supplying his rationale and reasoning behind the advert series, which was very helpful when judging his entry. To enhance his client’s image, a full strategy was rolled out within the paper to ensure the brand story was firstly told, and then reinforced over the following months. Knowing the detail of the clients brief, the ads that were designed are clever, in that they concentrate on the ‘support local’ story extremely well and then continue to build the profile of the new company name. Using an editorial approach in the launch advert allowed the reader to fully understand what this brand stands for within the local area, as well as the local personalities behind it. The follow on ads were used to reinforce the brand and ensure it remains in peoples minds. A well thought out campaign and well presented for judging. SECOND: A full page by the Plains Producer carrying an ‘Open letter to our local farmers’was a clever way to achieve cut through to their clients and to the wider market they wish to service. The page is well designed and delivers a strong message and brand building initiative for the client. Outlining their offering, their support, experience and appreciation to
JUDGE’S COMMENTS Neil Holthouse
their customer base is a powerful way to build their image and credibility in a subtle and clever way. They have enhanced their standing in their community through this approach and by doing so enhanced their brand and image. The following week they built on this by placing another well designed advert, again speaking directly to their target market and offering them premium prices for their products. Both these adverts are strong image builders for this client and have been well thought out and executed. THIRD: Port Lincoln Times. A stylish advert well designed with a good use of the hero image, with base details not distracting from the overall visual appeal. The advert delivers its message nicely, the image of the company is enhanced by a quality layout and nice use of the water splash under the bottle. A simple advert, well designed to attract the reader’s interest to the launch, while showcasing the other offerings of the winery.
Your local builder is here to stay... Deciding to make the name change to build upon local tradition and knowledge was easy for the team at Bartsch Homes. Formerly Bartsch Builders (Cavalier Homes Barossa), Bartsch Homes with over 30 years building experience continues with the second generation. James and Chris’ son, Luke and his wife, Kristie, have joined the family business to continue to build new homes with the quality and attention to detail, on which the Bartsch family have built their reputation. Bartsch Homes will continue to offer an option for the new home client, from a local builder, that strives to employ local trades and services. Your Plan or Ours, James will take clients through the design stage to individually design your new home and with your budget. Kristie supports James with the Building Application and works with Council to gain Building Approval in a timely manner.
Bartsch Homes display home coming soon.
Chris works with clients to finalise Selections and Inclusions. From our Silver Inclusions Selection on display at our Basedow Road Showroom, or your individual selections, we can offer support and advise. Luke manages site supervision and is available on site, to meet with the client. The Bartsch family are supported by a small office team and a group of quality tradespeople. Bartsch Homes are builders that are personally with you all the way, from the initial enquiry stage until your new home is complete. Bartsch Homes will be showcasing their second display home which again will be open for a limited time. This four bedroom, two bathroom home will be open in July for a limited time. The Bartsch Home team invite the community to come and view this home and experience for themselves this beautiful new home which will feature gloss kitchen cabinetry, distressed timber floors, aluminium windows, Smeg Appliances, three coat paint system and much more. The name may have changed but the Bartsch Team remains the same; a family business built on experience and knowledge. Bartsch Homes invite you to visit them today at their showroom and offices at 51 Basedow Road, Tanunda or visit their website www.bartschhomes.com.au.
Kristie, Luke, James, Chris and Jesse Bartsch (front).
Third generation: Luke, James and Jesse Bartsch (16 months).
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51 Basedow Tanunda SA 5352 51 Basedow Road,Road, Tanunda SA 5352 08 8563 f 08 8563 p 08 p 8563 3293 3293 I f 08I 8563 2090 2090 e admin@bartschhomes.com.au e admin@bartschhomes.com.au www.bartschhomes.com.au www.bartschhomes.com.au
14 success in press
Country Press South Australia NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2012 www.sacountrypress.com.au
Excellence In Journalism
Port Lincoln Times
Persistence pays in tracking trawler THERE were 28 entries in the Excellence in Journalism category, down one from last year. There were some excellent entries, reminding us that country newspapers have some very talented staff and serve their local communities very well. However, there were also some very ordinary entries. In my book, a straight interview at an event will very rarely qualify for excellence in journalism. Criteria for this category is: “A local news or human interest story – must be breaking news, delving into an issue in the entrant newspaper’s community.” That seems quite clear, so it was disappointing that one newspaper entered the section acknowledging that it did not meet the criteria of breaking news. The paper sent in a comment piece/ column saying that they had had good feedback so they thought they would “have a crack at this category anyway.” I note that last year judge Peter
JUDGE’S COMMENTS Fuller wrote of the increasing challenge to compare a single story from one edition of a newspaper to a body of work published over 10, 15 or more than 20 editions. I faced the same difficulty this year. Perhaps there could be a category for Best Investigative Story and a category for Sustained Investigative Journalism. HONORABLE MENTIONS: I gave five honourable mentions in this category. They went to: The Loxton News for its fight on behalf of the local community against the sale of a block of land donated to the community more than 100 years ago. The Bunyip for its strong coverage – Gawler’s Underbelly – of violence in the area. The Courier for Genevieve Cooper’s reporting of “Inverbrackie
– One year on.” The Yorke Peninsula Country Times for its sustained coverage on the controversial issue of marine parks. The Murray Pioneer for its exposure of aged care problems at the Renmark Paringa District Hospital. Strong work by Paul Mitchell resulted in several stories on whistleblower Tania Martin. His story was followed up by metropolitan media. THIRD: I gave third place to Craig Treloar of The River News for his great coverage and campaigning by the paper to save the Cadell ferry service. The paper’s sustained coverage put a great deal of pressure on the State Government, resulting in a strong community backlash and, finally, a backflip by the Government and the continuation of the ferry service.
Kym Tilbrook SECOND: Sandra Morello of The Border Watch did an excellent job over several months in her coverage of the future of timber mill workers. She left no stone unturned as she broke several stories over the longrunning saga. It is obvious Sandra has developed excellent contacts in her quest to report all aspects of the issue. Sandra won this category last year for her coverage of the State Government’s decision to sell-off the SE’s forest plantations. Her continued excellent reporting is to be commended. FIRST: After much deliberation, I gave first place to Kimberlee Meier of the Port Lincoln Times for her coverage of the controversial super trawler FV Margiris. She broke the news that the super trawler was go-
ing to dock at Port Lincoln – at that time the company that owned the vessel was refusing to comment and there was a lot of speculation that the vessel would berth in Tasmania or somewhere on the East Coast. Kimberlee chased the story for seven days before she finally got a tip-off that the vessel was headed for Port Lincoln. She confirmed the story two hours before deadline and, as a result, the front page was changed. National media followed up her story as the trawler became a major national environmental and political hot potato. It was a great example of excellence in journalism – breaking a major story and delving into a community issue. Kimberlee followed up on story in other editions, keeping the fishing and local community fully informed as controversy over the trawler, regarded by environmentalists as a giant vacuum cleaner, continued to grow.
Brave stand shows power of the press THE attention to detail in entries in this year’s Country Press Association Editorial Writing Award was generally down on previous years. Three entries were ruled inadmissable because they were not editorials (or leaders) but in fact news feature articles - this is a significant misunderstanding by the editors One entry was not considered because the entry form nominated it for the Excellence in Journalism category, not Editorial Writing One entry was not considered because it provided only one Editorial column not three as requested in the entry criteria Six entries were also disqualified because they did not include the concise background notes as requested in the entry criteria It is recommended the organisers highlight these oversights in 2013 and encourage editors to take greater care in the collation of their entries Despite this, the remaining 11 entries (out of an initial total of 22) reflected the passionate commitment by these newspapers and editors to their communities In nearly all cases the topics were local (health services, car accidents, business and the agricultural economy, housing, bushfires, local sporting politics, local government and regional development) which is precisely what country newspapers should be writing about Where an opinion was made about a state or national issue it was usually given a local flavour, which I viewed more favourably than a generic comment that could have been published in any newspaper, anywhere However, while the writing in most cases was solid and workmanlike, I was looking for more colour, emotion and critical energy The editorial or leader column is the newspaper’s soapbox on which it can air its opinion and share its beating heart with its readers It is normally written by the most skilled writer in the newsroom, the
Editorial Writing Award The Islander, Shauna Black
The Islander editor, Shauna Black.
JUDGE’S COMMENTS person with the wisdom and experience to develop a well-supported argument on a topic, and who can make words sing In this case too many of the editorials I read were predictable, clichéd and uninspiring, rather than uplifting I fear that many were dashed out in a rush before deadline rather than researched and considered - quite possibly a factor of declining editorial resources in print publishing On the other hand, the winning entries were strong opinion pieces, which embodied the newspaper’s principles to report and comment without fear or favour They were lively, critical, well researched and firmly argued, with a self-assured use of language
In an increasingly digital world where comment is now open to everyone through Twitter, Facebook and blogs, regional newspapers need to show their readers why their opinions are more important than the great mass of “citizen journalist” words that tumble out of SmartPhones every day This is the challenge for regional newspapers in 2013 FIRST PRIZE - Shauna Black, The Islander Judge’s comments: The measure of a well-written editorial is whether it can create change Too often communities read the newspaper opinion column, nod and do nothing Shauna Black’s balanced, reasoned, un-emotional call for the resignation of a local councillor due
Peter Fuller to poor performance (and the storm of letters that ensued) would make an excellent case study in journalistic excellence In this small community, Shauna had much to lose (including lots of friends and a columnist for her paper) but she had experience and objectivity on her side and despite howls of protest from the local Member of Parliament, she achieved a victory for democratic governance As one correspondent wrote, Shauna had attended more council meetings over the years than most of the councillors. which made her singularly equipped to not just judge her community’s local representatives, but provide balanced criticism when it was due. Along with her other “change
agent” columns - one on the poorly planned location of a SA water plant near a major tourist attraction and the other on the badly communicated loss of local analog television Shauna makes things happen in her community She is an outstanding and dedicated professional who deserves to be ranked among the top regional journalists in the state SECOND PRIZE - Jason Wallace, The Border Watch Judge’s comments: The Border Watch continued to maintain its high standard of regional journalism with its three 2012 editorial entries Jason is a strong writer who constructs a well-structured argument based on objective research and a deep knowledge of his community Two of the editorial entries were fearlessly critical of the actions of the local mayor - not a popular move by an Editor who relies on local government for news - but certainly in the community’s best interests His third entry took on the big story of the year with the State Government bail-out of a local mill, which was again well researched and full of practical suggestions A serious press journalist with an outstanding news sense THIRD PRIZE - Brooke Dubois, The Victor Harbor Times Judge’s comments: Brooke writes with colour and conviction on issues which mean something to her and to her local area She developed a strong if controversial argument for double demerit points for drivers on the dangerous Adelaide to Victor Harbor; highlighted the common country story of diminishing health services through a local angle on substandard midwifery services; and even took on evangelical Christianity following a radical preacher’s visit to the seaside town She seems to be closely aware of her community and the Southern Fleurieu appears to be well-served by her skill and dedication.
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success in press
Country Press South Australia NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2012 www.sacountrypress.com.au
Best Supplement
g the Celebratin
International Year of
Co-operatives
THE large number of entries was of the highest quality making it the most difficult section I have judged during the past eight years. Any of the top 10 could have figured in the final three. It is obvious that staff treat these supplements with great energy and passion. WINNER: The Leader – This was an amazing effort in taking on a subject which one would have thought would hardly rate as a serious advertising supplement or feature. It was obvious that the advertising and editorial teams combined effectively to produce a magnificent product, outlining the many benefits of the local Co-Op. The feature was cleverly tied to the United Nations International Year Of Co-operatives.
Community Profile
COUNTRY Times journalist Sonny Coombs picked up an award for writing the best community profile article of 2012 at the South Australian Country Press Awards on Friday. Sonny profiled former YPCT stalwart Sharon Dodd, writing about her life, career and retirement in June. Country Press SA and the Port Lincoln Times hosted the 2012 Newspaper Awards Dinner at the Port Lincoln Hotel. The awards night gala dinner, sponsored by SA Power Networks, was attended by more than 120 people representing newspapers across the state as well as sponsors and guests. Country Press SA president David Wright said the awards recognised the outstanding efforts of country newspapers in serving their local communities, while offering a bench-
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charts, information boxes on player movements and key matches for respective teams in the coming season. This was complemented with good use of colour action pictures and clear, clean, easy-to-read advertisements at the bottom of each page. THIRD: The Islander – This was the most difficult decision, as little separated the last six in the judging. Finally The Islander got the nod because of its very extensive Food Wine and Art Guide. The booklet was so well done it seemed that anyone who had a business in these fields on the island would want to be included. As a result it attracted a very strong line-up of advertisers. For anyone visiting the island this booklet is a must-have and the 60 pages were full of valuable tourist and dining information.
mark for continued improvement and development. In judging the community profile category, former Channel Nine news reporter and presenter Georgina McGuinness wrote Sonny engaged her straight away with a catchy introduction. “Then, he resisted the tendency to list off life events in chronological order,” she wrote. “Instead, he cleverly interspersed the commentary with interview grabs which added real colour to his piece and brought the whole article to life. “This is not an easy skill, but clearly Sonny has mastered it. “Further, this lovely flow of anecdote, comment and link sentences was carried from start to finish and the ending was very neat with a lovely tie to the start. “A masterful piece.”
Winner of best community profile at the South Australian Country Press Awards Country Times journalist Sonny Coombs (right) with his story’s subject Sharon Dodd and YPCT Managing Editor Michael Ellis.
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There were many interesting stories in the supplement but two stood out. One was the story on how Co-ops can turn jobs into careers and the other was the various and interesting views sought by the journalists which provided a rare insight into why shoppers love their local Co-op. It was not just an advertising supplement but also a great read. Well done. RUNNER-UP: The Bunyip – There were numerous sporting supplements but the best by far was On The Ball. It was a clever, yet innovative preview to the 2012 football and netball seasons in the publishing areas of that newspaper. Each page had plenty of information about the teams’ prospects but the highlight was the use of pie
Sonny’s gift for writing rewarded
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Graham Greenwood
Yorke Peninsula Country Times
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The Leader
Team effort combines creativity with interest JUDGE’S COMMENTS
Celebrating the International Year of Co-operatives, “The Leader”, October 10, 2012 - 1
15
MAY I begin by saying how honoured and privileged I am to have been invited to be a judge in these wonderful awards. May I also say what a hard task it was to choose a winner from such a high calibre field. Indeed, every article was worthy of high commendation and it was a challenge to even begin to narrow the entries down! However, I got there in the end and it is my great pleasure to award: FIRST: Sonny Coombs from Yorke Peninsula Times SECOND: Billie Harrison
JUDGE’S COMMENTS from Port Lincoln Times THIRD: Brad Perry from Riverland Weekly The criteria I used to come to these final three was quite simple. In every instance, I read to the end of the article and found myself wanting to know more. To me, that is the best profile article. 1st place comments: Sonny engaged me straight away with a catchy opening introduction. Then, she resisted the tendancy to list off
Georgina McGuinness
life events in chronological order. Instead, he cleverly interspersed the commentary with interview grabs which added real colour to his piece and brought the whole article to life. This is not an easy skill, but clearly, Sammy has mastered it. Further, this lovely flow of anecdote, comment and link sentences was carried from start to finish and the ending was very neat with a lovely tie to the start.
A masterful piece. 2nd and 3rd comments: Both Billie and Brad demonstrated very similar technique to Sammy and again, like Sammy, they had wonderful talent to work with. That is always a gift for a journalist! Billie and Brad captured the reader’s attention early. Brad immediately got me in with his opening line, shot and sweet but it grabbed me straight away.
Debbie’s story was a hard one to tell with many twists and turns, yet Brad documented it very accurately with appropriate use of quotes and set paragraphs. I wold love to read a follow up. Again with Billie, while she opened her story with the mum’s side of things, she quickly introduced Braden to the reader and through Billie’s well written and punchy style for text, she brought some wonderful colour to the piece and really demonstrated Braden’s keen sense of humour. Congratulations to both.
16 success in press
Country Press South Australia NEWSPAPER AWARDS 2012 www.sacountrypress.com.au
Bulls-eye: Chelsea nails super shot NORTHERN Argus journalistin-charge Chelsea Ashmeade was awarded best sports photograph at the Country Press SA Awards. Her image of a bull rider being tossed in the air at Marrabel Bull Ride in 2012 was given the top honour from 32 other regional South Australian papers. Northern Argus manager and Country Press SA president David Wright, who accepted the award on her behalf, said Chelsea’s photo beat some tough competition in a field of about two dozen entries. “Chelsea’s passion for photography, and particularly rodeo photography,shines through in this photo,” he said. “It’s challenging shooting action sports photography in low light and dusty conditions.” Judge of best sports photograph was former Advertiser photographer Ray Titus “Chelsea’s photo of Chris Young being thrown from a bull at Marrabel Rodeo has it all – action and expression throughout the whole shot,” his comments said. Chelsea said it was an honour to win best sports photograph. “I worked hard to get that photograph and it shows that hard work can pay off, there was some strong competition and I was lucky to win,” she said.
Best Sports Photograph
Northern Argus
FAR RIGHT: Northern Argus Photographer Chelsea Ashmeade.
JUDGE’S COMMENTS THIS year’s entries have been the collective best for several years and plenty of entries can feel hard done by not making the final three. First: CHELSEA ASHMEADE from the Northern Argus. Chelsea’s photo of Chris Young being thrown from a bull at the Marrabel Rodeo has it all – action
and expression throughout the whole of the shot. Second: LAURA WRIGHT from The Courier. Laura’s photo of wet weather footy has everything a photographer can wish for – mud, water and good action combined to make this great picture. Equal third: very hard to split
Ray Titus COURTNEY MCFARLANE of the Victor Harbor Times and WILLIAM BAILEY of Murray Valley Standard. Courtney’s photo of the wicket keeper taking a great catch shows her quick thinking and knowledge of the game to follow the ball. William’s photo of the fierce tackle during a football match is a worthy placegetter as well.
Best Sports Story
The Border Watch, Rod Morris
JUDGED BY ONCE again this ‘best sports story’ category was a challenge to judge because of the wide range of styles of entries, from straight news to event/match reports and features. The overall standard was pleasing and there are clearly a lot of talented reporters contributing to the regional communities through their newspapers. The extra effort used to add life and context to many of the reports – often through the use of quotes from those involved – was also appreciated. There was less “hard” news among this year’s entries but there was a stronger fielder of personalitydriven feature stories. The London Olympic and Paralympic Games provided obvious profile candidates for some newspapers with local backgrounds but there were also some strong and interesting features on people involved at the local level. WINNER: The Border Watch, ROD MORRIS. Rod’s article about a football coach copping a broken jaw stood
David Burtenshaw out for its clarity. The incident was obviously front page news material but Rod ticked the boxes with his tight and well-written report. RUNNER-UP: Plains Producer, LES PEARSON. This was another example of a reporter taking a strong news event and making the effort to develop and explain the story. Les spoke to the key people involved, used suitable quotes and gave the readers plenty of information from all sides. THIRD: The Bunyip, BEN JONES. There were about a dozen possibilities for a placing, including several nice profile stories. But I opted for an article piece written about a major event that happened 25 years earlier when the Gawler and District Football Association folded. Ben spoke to some of the key figures involved at clubs affected by the changes and produced an interesting piece proving history can be worth revisiting.