Queensland’s premier media awards, the Clarion Awards, are for stories which have been published, broadcast, or televised in Australia in the 12 months from July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024.
Winners will be announced at Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre on Saturday, November 30.
Keep updated: Follow the Clarion Awards Facebook page
More information: MEAAstateawards@walkleys.com
Entries are being accepted across the following categories:
ARTWORK, CARTOON, ILLUSTRATION OR GRAPHIC
BROADCAST INTERVIEW
BUSINESS JOURNALISM
COMMENTARY, ANALYSIS, OPINION AND CRITIQUE
HEALTH AND SCIENCE REPORTING
INDIGENOUS ISSUES REPORTING
INNOVATION
MOST OUTSTANDING FINAL YEAR JOURNALISM STUDENT – GRADUATING 2024
MULTICULTURAL REPORTING
NEW JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR
RURAL JOURNALISM
SOCIAL ISSUES REPORTING
SPORTS JOURNALISM
THREE HEADINGS
BEST METROPOLITAN NEWS PHOTO
PHOTOGRAPHIC ESSAY
FEATURE ARTICLE
NEWS REPORT
RADIO, DOCUMENTARY AND PODCAST
RADIO NEWS AND CURRENT AFFAIRS
CURRENT AFFAIRS, FEATURE, DOCUMENTARY OR SPECIAL BROADCAST
NEWS REPORT
THE JOHN BEAN MEMORIAL AWARD FOR TELEVISION CAMERAWORK
BROADCAST REPORT
FEATURE ARTICLE OR OPINION PIECE – PRINT / TEXT
NEWS PHOTOGRAPH
NEWS REPORT – PRINT / TEXT
INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALISM
JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR 2024
NOMINATE A STANDOUT PEER for the ‘MOST OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO JOURNALISM’ AWARD
Winners will be announced at Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre on Saturday, November 30.
Entries open Monday, July 15, 2024 and close on Sunday, August 25, 2024.
All entries must have been published, broadcast, or televised in Australia in the 12 months from July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024. Eligibility for these Awards is based on independent acts of journalism, free from any commercial or corporate interests.
All entrants must certify that their entry, apart from normal sub-editorial/production treatment, is their original work and that they have adhered to the MEAA Journalist Code of Ethics (‘Code of Ethics’) in the work preparation, and have complied with any relevant copyright requirements.
Judges will also be required to certify that they have read and understood the Code of Ethics and will apply it in judging entries.
All entrants must provide a professional headshot (individual or team) and biography of 150 words written in the third person. Joint, group, and team entries should provide only one bio reflecting all entrants and their contribution to the story and one team image.
All entrants (or lead entrant) must complete the Entry Questionnaire.
To facilitate access for judging, entrants provide work on an accessible URL. If the work is behind a paywall, the entry should provide a log in details for judges to access that work. If the work is behind a paywall, it is strongly advised that entrants also upload a copy of the entry (e.g. as a .PDF or .mp3 file) as work submitted without current log in details may not otherwise be able to be judged.
The purpose of the QLD Clarion Awards is to recognise creative and courageous acts of factually based journalism that seek out the truth and give new insight to an issue.
You can find information about the judging process and criteria that form part of the terms and conditions of entry here. Please note:
The QLD Clarion photographic awards recognise visual journalists producing still and video photography for any platform. Criteria include storytelling, courage, public impact, creativity, innovative use of technology, technical ability and resourcefulness and can include sound slides and photo film. Photographers should reference the category descriptions for each category when preparing their entries.
Photographers are also invited to enter their work in relevant All Media categories in the Awards. Photographers are eligible to enter photographic work in All Media categories such as Camerawork as an individual entrant or as part of a group or team entry.
A photographer may only enter once in each photography category.
Only photos published between July 1, 2023 and June 30, 2024.
Please see the category descriptions for further information. Below are the number of images you can submit per category:
Material specifications:
The ABC’s Alexandra Blucher (left) was 2023 Queensland Journalist of the Year.
ABC’s Alexandra Blucher has been named Queensland’s 2023 Journalist of the Year at the Queensland Clarion Awards announced in Brisbane on Saturday, October 21.
Blucher won the award following a two-part joint investigation into the deaths of Darcey-Helen, 2, and Chloe-Ann, 1 in their mother’s overheated car in 2019, which shone a spotlight on the Queensland Government’s systemic failure in the tragic death of the toddlers.
The judging panel said the entry highlighted how the Background Briefing and ABC Investigation Teams gained exclusive access to the family in this high-profile case, following them for two-and-a-half years in the lead up to the mother’s sentencing.
Blucher said she felt very honoured that the story was recognised for this prestigious award.
“It was a privilege to be trusted by Darcey and Chloe’s family, particularly Darcey’s father Peter, to tell their story and allow me to join them on their heartbreaking search for the truth on why the child protection system didn’t heed their dire warnings,” she said.
“I thank them and the brave former child safety officer who spoke out, for allowing themselves to be vulnerable and courageous in their conviction to seek accountability and change out of the devastating loss of these two beautiful little girls.
“I hope the story’s exposure of the failings in Darcey and Chloe’s case goes some way to raise awareness so other vulnerable children and families in the system are afforded better protection.
“Thanks also to the talented Background Briefing and ABC Investigations team members who put their hearts and souls into the production of the story for podcast and digital – and the ABC for giving me the time needed to work on the story.”
The stories were also recognised as the winner of the ‘Investigative Journalism’ award.
Other notable Clarion Awards winners included Courier-Mail journalist Frances Whiting, winner of the Most Outstanding Contribution to Journalism Award.
Western Queensland-based ABC News video journalist, Victoria Pengilley picked up three awards: ‘New Journalist of the Year’; ‘Rural Journalism’; and ‘Regional and Community: News Report – Print/Text’.
Artwork, Cartoon, Illustration or Graphic supported by MEAA
Judges’ comments: The team behind Nine’s Jetsetting Execs graphics helped bring to life what had been a detailed investigation based on Right to Information documents. The use of imagery such as mock passports to introduce the key players, and bobble-head private plane passengers flying around Europe was visually stimulating and, more importantly, enhanced viewers’ understanding of the investigation.
Broadcast Interview supported by MEAA
Judges’ comments: The ACA interview with the father of the Wieambilla killers is a masterclass in the power of an interview in a breaking news situation. The judges were impressed by the team’s ability to deliver a polished and revealing portrait of a man grappling with the horrific actions of his sons.
Business Journalism supported by MEAA
Judges’ comments: [This] entry broke new ground on the highly topical issue of scams that are impacting the lives of ordinary Australians. The reporting was robust and considered as it looked at scams from all sides of the problem including how they arrive at Australia using sophisticated criminal networks. Adding to the strength of the reporting Michael was able to gain the trust of scam victims to talk candidly about their experience. He was also given rare access from authorities in their battle and this put the viewer at the front line at the crackdown. The reported pieces were technically excellent and the stories were told in a compelling way. The reports issued a strong community warning and also achieved an outcome by having a major bank – NAB – refund a scam victim.
Commentary, Analysis, Opinion and Critique supported by MEAA
Judges’ comments: Ben Smee’s well-crafted commentary uses evidence and reason to strip away the emotion from Queensland’s youth crime situation. He gets under the hood of the divisive public debate, looking at the politics driving its ‘blunt law and order response’. Smee’s sustained reporting has allowed him to share exclusive details, unlocking important political context for readers.
Health and Science Reporting supported by MEAA
Judges’ comments: In a strong group of entries, ‘Strange Frontiers’ was a stand-out example of excellence in health, medical or science reporting. The journalist combined multimedia storytelling and in-depth research to deliver insightful and impactful reporting on seriously complex science, which has the potential to change lives and society. The reporting was accessible, immersive, and stunningly produced.
Indigenous Issues Reporting supported by Queensland Council of Unions
Judges’ comments: The jury applauded Brian Bennion for his outstanding coverage of a proposal to build a childcare centre near the site of an Aboriginal massacre in Ipswich. It represented the best of regional – and national – reporting on Indigenous affairs. Special mention also for the flawless work of Ben Smee and Michael McKenna.Their stories were of national significance, exposing troubling aspects of Australian society.
Innovation supported by Telstra
Judges’ comments: ‘Why many data breaches are still a mystery, and how they affect you’ used interactivity and data visualisations to instantly engage with the audience in a complex and important story. By asking the audience to enter their email into one of the articles, the experience was immediately compelling and personalised. This innovative use of interactivity placed the audience directly in the story, customising their experience and informing them of their data breach history. The inventive use of data and graphics across both articles elevated the findings of this investigation and effectively illustrated the scale of the broader problem.
Most Outstanding Final Year Journalism Student – Graduating in 2023 supported by MEAA
Judges’ comments: The judges were highly impressed with the quality of Grace’s work as a student journalist. The stories submitted showed a readiness to step into the workforce as a reporter. The importance of local journalism was highlighted through this body of work, with both excellent written and broadcast skills on show.
Multicultural Reporting supported by MEAA
Judges’ comments: Joe Hinchcliffe writes with incredible flair and nuance about a Somali refugee who survived a xenophobic attack during his nightly bike ride in Brisbane’s outer west. Instead of simply documenting the horrifying car chase, the Guardian reporter explains in detail why Abdirashid Farrah Abdi wants to forgive the driver who intentionally tried to run him over. Like all excellent pieces of multicultural affairs journalism, it urges the reader to walk in a refugee’s shoes to understand that unique rationale. The article is a beautiful tale of compassion in a state that is all too often obsessed with tough justice and punishment.
New Journalist of the Year supported by Women in Media Committee
Judges’ comments: The judges were very impressed with Victoria Pengilley’s body of work, that demonstrated great skill in cultivating and nurturing sensitive contacts to break stories with significant public interest. The judges found her work engaging, well researched and, often, solutions oriented, despite the resource limitations of working across a wide-geographic footprint. The judges would also like to acknowledge Samantha Scott’s entry for deeply engaging and sensitively written human-interest journalism.
Rural Journalism supported by MEAA
Judges’ comments: In a tight field, Victoria Pengilley’s entry was both news breaking and emotional. Not only was her work highlighting the breaking of the Queensland drought great storytelling, but it showed what can be done when there’s not much media in town, and in a very massive area at that! Her words were accompanied by particularly compelling photos and videos.
Social Issues Reporting supported by Independent Education Union
Judges’ comments: All three finalists’ are compelling, extensively researched and highly crafted exclusive stories about important topics high in public interest. Ben Smee’s series of three multimedia articles give a new, rarely heard perspective on the complex issue of youth justice dominating headlines for the past 12 months, sharing first-hand the insights of a 14-year-old boy currently caught in the system and the dismal future he’s become resigned to. Judges wished to particularly congratulate Matthew Liddy, Julian Fell and Ben Spraggon, authors of ‘Wrenching open the Black Box’ for their highly original, highly innovative and arresting examination of the algorithm behind Robodebt.”
Sports Journalism supported by MEAA
Judges’ comments: This is a poignant, considered, and well-told story about the tragic death of Queensland sporting great, Paul Green. This truly is a testament to Peter Badel’s career and reputation – with the panel particularly touched by the anecdote from Paul Green’s mother that she ‘trusted’ Peter with the story after collecting Peter’s previous stories on her son through the years. The subject of suicide can be a difficult one, but Peter’s reporting handled it with grace and still allows room for the remarkable life and achievements of Paul Green. Peter, you’re to be commended on this fine piece of journalism.
Three Headings supported by Ten News First
Judges’ comments: Cameron Atfield sure knows how to have fun with a pun. His clever but simple use of wordplay was headline writing that captured the true essence of the story. Congratulations on some cracking headlines Cameron.
Best Metropolitan News Photo supported by MEAA
Judges’ comments: ‘Voices – 100 Years & 3 Weeks – Alf Neal OAM’ by Brian Cassey is in a class of its own and a standout news picture. From the story to the access to the execution, Brian nailed the image and while doing so told an important story. Alf’s life was dedicated to activism and this poignant portrait raises hopes that the changes he didn’t live to witness in his lifetime will come to fruition to better the future of his great great grandson, Kailan. Well done Brian, we hope to one day see this image hanging at the National Portrait Gallery!
Photographic Essay supported by MEAA
Judges’ comments: ‘The Voice – Alf Neal OAM at 100′ by Brian Cassey ticked everyone of the criteria for this category for me. The story, ‘The Voice’, is in the news most days. Brian Cassey developed and nurtured a relationship with the subject. He focused on one man to tell a more complicated story. He was trusted, which gave him access at a very sensitive time for this community. His research allowed a depth to his storytelling. The images and words reflect one another adding great depth to the coverage. His essay tells the story very well. It is beautifully photographed.
Feature Article supported by Local Government Association of Queensland
Judges’ comments: ‘MH17: The Untold Story’ tells the extraordinary backstory of the Australian investigators who travelled to Ukraine to assist in the recovery and investigation of downed Malaysian flight MH17. Through a combination of dogged cultivation of sources, extensive research, expansive interviews and beautiful prose, the reader walks the war-ravaged fields with those Australians to discover how their incredible involvement helped shape this moment of world history.
News Report supported by Media Super
Judges’ comments: These exclusive investigative stories were the result of months of meticulous research and interviews and had significant political and personal impact for the individuals involved. The judges also highly commended the ongoing investigative work of Liam Walsh and Mark Ludlow in their reporting on former Brisbane Lord Mayor Jim Soorley.
Radio, Documentary and Podcast supported by Media Super
Judges’ comments: In a field crowded with compelling audio projects, Heidi Davoren and Adelaide Miller’s ‘False Witness’ boldly raised its head with its storytelling. This thought-provoking, expertly researched and bravely told documentary was stunningly augmented by a digital feature which demonstrated first class, best practice audio storytelling which takes the form to a new level, demonstrating an innovative future for the craft.
Radio, News and Current Affairs supported by MEAA
Judges’ comments: The high quality of all the entrants in this section made judging very difficult. Entries ranged geographically from the Solomon Islands to the far northwest of Queensland to the south-east corner. Research and investigations ranged from local to international in scope. Personnel ranged from lone reporters in the outback to well-staffed program crews. Several of the stories resulted in socio-political change – new staff for a regional hospital, calls for more transparency about drought declarations, calls for professional foster carers for our most vulnerable children, and greater transparency of government changes to immigrant visas. The three shortlisted finalists were ‘Gladstone maternity crisis’, ‘Fixing our failing foster care’ and ‘Fallen Star’. The winner in this section went the extra mile, undertaking extensive research, including with off-shore police into links between the Queen’s Wharf casino and international criminal figures that forced the Queensland Attorney-General to call for an investigation.
Current Affairs, Feature, Documentary or Special Broadcast supported by MEAA
Judges’ comments: The ACA interview with the father of the Wieambilla killers is a masterclass in the power of an interview in a breaking news situation. The judges were impressed by the team’s ability to deliver a polished and revealing portrait of a man grappling with the horrific actions of his sons.
TV News Report supported by Queensland University of Technology
Judges’ comments: Josh Bavas’s story highlights the trips and travel of a former mayor, former deputy mayor and two senior council leaders using ratepayer money to fund luxurious hotels and private jets. Josh was holding those in power to account. The vision available was used well alongside outstanding graphic treatments and a relatable script to break down the complexity of the story, showing what amounted to a publicly-funded boys trip. It was a long haul too – request after request for information finally came to fruition. All the while the council, and even the information commissioner, were trying to keep details secret.
The John Bean Memorial Award for Television Camerawork supported by ABC
Judges’ comments: For a subject difficult to capture, Leonardi’s work was very well stylised. He made beautiful use of light and cleverly set the scene with unexpected camera angles and evocative objects. An observational piece that was still very emotive, this was a tribute to Leonardi’s creativity and attention to detail.
Broadcast Report supported by MEAA
Judges’ comments: A thought provoking, powerful and interesting documentary that explored the other side of one of Queensland’s biggest issues. Excellent use of talent, especially the young offender, who was able to speak freely, without his words being edited or cut short.
Feature Article or Opinion Piece – Print/Text supported by MEAA
Judges’ comments: The judges were impressed by the overall standard of entries in this category, but Nathan Morris’ Outback Musical was a standout. Writing with flair and originality, Morris took the reader to remote Queensland outposts, and introduced us to unique young characters. As well as a rollicking read, the article was also an insight into the challenges faced by students in isolated communities and how adversity can be overcome by talent and good humour.
News Photograph supported by Seven News Brisbane
Judges’ comments: Glenn Hampson’s shots of the aftermath of the Sea World helicopter tragedy are a testament to his quick thinking and initiative. He showed the foresight to find an excellent vantage point and overcame obstacles to get the shots. His long lens brought home to readers the shuddering violence of a high-profile catastrophe.
News Report – Print/Text supported by MEAA
Judges’ comments: This team uncovered shocking mistreatment of indigenous students who had been sent hundreds of kilometres from home to live in private student hostels. Their families thought they were getting a good education but instead they were at risk of abuse and neglect while an unscrupulous operator pocketed government funding. The reporting was compelling and well-researched and shined a light on a serious gap in regulation in the hostel and boarding sector.
Investigative Journalism supported by Brisbane Airport Corporation
Judges’ comments: What really stood out about this entry was the riveting and dramatic accounts of the lead up to the tragic deaths of two small children. Having spent two-and-a-half years working on the story, Alexandra Blucher’s two part series for the ABC’s Background Briefing was well produced and contained exclusive interviews with family members and an on the record interview with a child safety officer who worked on the case and admits she could have prevented the two little girl’s deaths if she wasn’t so overworked. This outstanding investigation revealed the human toll of a system that failed the innocent and led to sustained questions in parliament and follow up in national media.
Most Outstanding Contribution to Journalism supported by The University of Queensland
Judges’ comments: Frances Whiting is a Queensland institution. Her columns and features have kept readers entertained and enthralled for more than 25 years. Her compelling profile of Hannah Clarke’s heartbroken family is a case in point. Her ability to effortlessly switch between light and shade, humour, and tragedy is truly inspiring. Frances is a worthy recipient of the Outstanding Contribution to Journalism Award.
Journalist of the Year supported by The Courier-Mail
Judges’ comments: Alexandra Blucher prosecutes a cross-platform case against Queensland’s child safety department, exposing shocking deficiencies. She reveals that despite multiple warnings, authorities failed to prevent the deaths of Darcey and Chloe. We hear not only from devastated family members, but a former child safety officer who worked with the mother of the two toddlers who died. This is investigative journalism at its finest.
About Alexandra: Alexandra Blucher is a multi-award-winning journalist for ABC Investigations based in Brisbane. She has reported, produced and researched for Four Corners, 7.30 and across other digital platforms. She’s also worked in Beijing for China Radio International. She reports on child protection and other human rights issues, government misconduct and corruption and has produced and researched war crimes stories. Alexandra has won multiple Clarions awards across multiple categories for joint-investigations into local government corruption, war crimes and environmental issues. She won a Walkley Award in 2018 for her joint investigation into local government corruption.
Artwork, Cartoon, Illustration or Graphic supported by MEAA
Broadcast Report supported by MEAA
Broadcast Interview supported by MEAA
Business Journalism supported by MEAA
Commentary, Analysis, Opinion & Critique supported by MEAA
Health and Science Reporting supported by MEAA
Indigenous Issues Reporting supported by Queensland Council of Unions
Innovation supported by Telstra
Most Outstanding Final Year Journalism Student – Graduating in 2023 supported by MEAA
Multicultural Reporting supported by MEAA
New Journalist of the Year supported by Women in Media
Rural Journalism supported by MEAA
Social Issues Reporting supported by Independent Education Union
Sports Journalism supported by MEAA
Three Headings supported by Ten News First
Best Metropolitan News Photo supported by MEAA
Photographic Essay supported by MEAA
Feature Article supported by Local Government Association of Queensland
News Report supported by MEAA
Radio, Documentary and Podcast supported by Media Super
Radio, News and Current Affairs supported by MEAA
TV Current Affairs, Feature, Documentary or Special Broadcast supported by MEAA
TV News Report supported by Queensland University of Technology
The John Bean Memorial Award for Television Camerawork supported by ABC
Broadcast Report supported by MEAA
Feature Article or Opinion Piece – Print/Text supported by MEAA
News Photograph supported by Seven News Brisbane
News Report – Print/Text supported by MEAA
Investigative Journalism supported by Brisbane Airport Corporation
ARTWORK, CARTOON, ILLUSTRATION OR GRAPHIC
BROADCAST INTERVIEW
BUSINESS JOURNALISM
COMMENTARY, ANALYSIS, OPINION AND CRITIQUE
HEALTH AND SCIENCE REPORTING
INDIGENOUS ISSUES REPORTING
INNOVATION
MOST OUTSTANDING FINAL YEAR JOURNALISM STUDENT – GRADUATING 2023
MULTICULTURAL REPORTING
NEW JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR
RURAL JOURNALISM
SOCIAL ISSUES REPORTING
SPORTS JOURNALISM
THREE HEADINGS
BEST METROPOLITAN NEWS PHOTO
PHOTOGRAPHIC ESSAY
FEATURE ARTICLE
NEWS REPORT
RADIO, DOCUMENTARY AND PODCAST
RADIO NEWS AND CURRENT AFFAIRS
CURRENT AFFAIRS, FEATURE, DOCUMENTARY OR SPECIAL BROADCAST
NEWS REPORT
THE JOHN BEAN MEMORIAL AWARD FOR TELEVISION CAMERAWORK
BROADCAST REPORT
FEATURE ARTICLE OR OPINION PIECE – PRINT / TEXT
NEWS PHOTOGRAPH
NEWS REPORT – PRINT / TEXT
INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALISM
JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR 2023
All entries must have been published, broadcast, or televised in Australia in the 12 months from July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023. Eligibility for the Clarion Awards is based on independent acts of journalism, free from any commercial or corporate interests.
All entrants must certify that their entry, apart from normal sub editorial/production treatment, is their original work and that they have adhered to the MEAA Journalist Code of Ethics in the work preparation; undertake to continue to abide by the Code of Ethics; and have complied with all copyright requirements. All entries must be factually based.
Those who enter do not have to be members of the Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance (MEAA). The Awards entry administration fee, however, is waived for MEAA members as one of the benefits of their membership. Contact MEAA to discuss your membership options, or to check your membership number.
Queensland residency
Self-published journalists
Declaration of entrant
Supporting statement
Team entries
Entry verification
Categories
The purpose of the Clarion Awards is to recognise creative and courageous acts of journalism that seek out the truth and give new insight to an issue. The judges will consider the following criteria as well as those in the description for the category they are judging:
The awards seek to recognise excellence, independence, innovation and originality in storytelling and distinctive reporting. This can be through research and investigations, well-crafted and innovative presentations, news breaking single stories or engaging, entertaining and/or informative reporting.
Judges will consider the resources and time available in creating the work, the pressure and demand of reporting deadlines, and the location of the journalist, taking into consideration potential isolation or exposure to outside forces, danger, or pressure in presenting a story.
Only photos published July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, are eligible for entry.
Number of images you can submit per category
Entry process
Material specifications for photographers
How can I enter the Queensland Clarion Awards?
You must register by completing the electronic registration form on the entry page.
Who can enter the Queensland Clarion Awards?
Entry is open to all journalists and media professionals who permanently reside in Queensland. All forms of print and electronic media are eligible for entry. Queensland-based journalists who undertake short-term assignments overseas (six months or less) can also enter the awards.
Those who enter do not have to be members of the Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance (MEAA). The Awards entry administration fee, however, is waived for MEAA members as one of the benefits of their membership.
Contact MEAA to discuss your membership options, or to check your membership number.
What are the conditions of entry?
Eligible entry submissions are for work published/broadcast between July 1, 2022 and June 30, 2023. Click here for category descriptions.
All entrants must certify that their entry, apart from normal sub editorial / production treatment, is their original work and that they have adhered to the MEAA Journalist Code of Ethics in the work preparation, undertake to continue to abide by the Code of Ethics, and have complied with all copyright requirements.
When do entries open?
Entries open on Tuesday, June 6, 2023.
When do entries close?
Entries will close at 11.59pm on Thursday, July 27, 2023. In the interests of fairness, there will be no deadline extensions.
When will the finalists be announced?
Finalists will be announced on Tuesday, August 29, 2023.
When will the winners be announced?
Winners will be announced at a gala event at Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre on Saturday, October 21, 2023.
How much does it cost to enter the 2023 Queensland Clarion Awards?
Entering the Queensland Clarion Awards is free for financial members of the Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance (MEAA), and $230 per entry for non-members. Where a non-member is part of a group entry, the normal $230 entry fee applies.
Contact MEAA to discuss your membership options, or to check your membership number.
Do I need to do anything to prepare to enter the Queensland Clarion Awards?
As per the Terms and Conditions of Entry, all entries must include a statement of up to 200 words outlining the case for consideration of an award. We recommend writing this supporting statement before you start the online entry process.
Where uploads are required, have your work ready to upload and make sure it is saved in the correct format.
What is an ‘entry title’ and will I be judged on this?
While you won’t be judged on your entry title, it will be used to refer to your work throughout the judging process. If you are chosen as a finalist, this entry title will also be included in any press releases and during the award presentation in October.
Do I have to include an entry statement of up to 200 words?
Yes, your entry statement is compulsory. This is an important part of the entry submission process, so please give some thought to what you want to say to the judges and the impact your work has had on your audience.
Pay attention to the judging criteria and the category description and address these points in your statement. It is recommended that this statement be written by the entrant themselves.
In it, you may wish to also include contextual information so judges can better understand how the work was produced, for example your resources and any other background information.
Please note that the online entry system will not accept more than 200 words, so it may be useful to perform a word count in a word processing document before copying your entry statement into the online entry form.
Do I need to have my entry form authorised?
Yes, for copyright and authentication reasons we require a declaration from your employer or commissioning company to submit your work.
During the online submission process, you will be asked to provide contact details for your editor, producer or equivalent manager. When you submit your work, they will receive an email requesting verification of the work and related details.
This person must verify the entry via the email they receive before it can be considered for judging by our panel.
If your work was self-published, you may verify this yourself, providing relevant URL links where possible.
If you are verifying your own work, please make this clear to the judges in your supporting statement.
Can I enter the same category more than once?
Entrants are permitted to enter the same category multiple times, but will need to complete a new and separate submission for each award category.
The exceptions to this rule are the News Photograph and Photographic Essay categories, which are limited to one entry per category.
Can I enter multiple categories?
Yes, provided you complete a separate entry form for each category. Click here for category descriptions.
I’m a photographer, which categories can I enter?
In addition to the photo-specific categories, photographers are also invited to enter their work in relevant All Media categories. In All Media categories, photographers can submit up to six (6) images that were published as part of a report or series of reports on the same subject/issue.
What’s the difference between a ‘group’ and a ‘team’ entry?
A group entry can include up to five (5) people’s names as entrants; in a team entry, a group of five (5) or more people enter a work under a single team name.
What is a group entry?
A group entry may include up to five (5) people as entrants. Groups will complete one (1) registration, listing the full details for each group member.
Please note that the order of the names given in the group entry will be the order used on all publicity and trophies. You cannot change this order after an entry is submitted, so please consult with all members before entering.
What is a team entry?
Team entries comprise more than five (5) individuals who will be recognised only as a collective.
A team entry is an entry produced by more than five (5) individuals and should be attributed to the print publication or section, network or program. Please include the name of your team under ‘entrant’s name’ in the entry form.
How are entries judged?
The judging panels for the Queensland Clarion Awards are composed of media professionals, academics, and previous award winners. A panel of three judges will determine the winner and two finalists based on the criteria specified.
Judges are selected by the Queensland Media Section Committee.
What are the criteria for judging?
Award winners will be chosen on the basis of journalistic excellence. This will vary according to individual categories but, in general, criteria will include:
Judges will take into consideration the resources available to the entrant/s and the effort expended in the preparation of the submitted work.
Can I upload video or audio files as part of the entry process?
Depending on the size of your file/s, it may be better to supply a link in your online entry to where judges can view/listen to your work online, such as on YouTube or Soundcloud.
I have multiple PDF pages that I want to upload, how do I do this?
The entry system will only allow you to upload a single PDF file per story. Articles longer than a page can be merged into a single file at PDF Merge.
My PDF file is too large to upload, is there a way to make it smaller?
You can compress your PDF files for free at: smallpdf.com/compress-pdf.
Are there any specifications for images?
Images must be uploaded in .jpg or .jpeg format and be at least 3,000 pixels in length. See the Terms and Conditions for more specifications.
What do I do if my news article or work is behind a paywall?
Entrants will need to ensure judges can access stories and content behind a paywall. Please upload these articles as PDF files, where possible.
Note: If you are providing links to paywalled articles or other paywalled works, you will need to include instructions or passwords in your supporting statement to give access to judges.
Who do I contact if I have more questions?
For specific questions about the Queensland Clarion Awards, please email Isabell Petrinic at: MEAAstateawards@walkleys.com
Rural Journalism supported by the Judith Neilson Institute
Health & Science Reporting supported by MEAA
Business Journalism supported by O’Brien Accountants
Commentary, Analysis, Opinion & Critique supported by the Judith Neilson Institute
Sports Journalism supported by QSport
Multicultural Reporting supported by MEAA
Social Issues Reporting supported by Independent Education Union
Indigenous Issues Reporting supported by Queensland Council of Unions
Broadcast Interview supported by Queensland Police Union
Innovation supported by Telstra
Three Headings supported by Ten News First
New Journalist of the Year supported by MEAA
Print/Text News Report supported by Nine News
Print/Text Feature Article supported by Local Government Association of Queensland
Radio News Current Affairs supported by MEAA
Radio Documentary and podcast supported by Media Super
Best Metropolitan News Photograph supported by MEAA
Photographic Essay supported by MEAA
TV News Report supported by MEAA
TV Current Affairs, Feature, Documentary or Special Broadcast supported by Queensland Police Union
The John Bean Memorial Award for Television Camerawork supported by ABC
Regional And Community Feature Article or Opinion Piece supported by Serafino Wines
Regional And Community News Report – Print/Text supported by the Judith Neilson Institute
Regional and Community – Broadcast Report supported by MEAA
Regional and Community – News Photograph supported by Seven News
Investigative Journalism supported by Brisbane Airport Corporation
Most Outstanding Contribution to Journalism supported by University of Queensland
2022 Journalist of the Year supported by MEAA
Rural Journalism supported by Rural Press Club
Health Reporting supported by MEAA
Business Journalism supported by MEAA
Commentary, Analysis, Opinion & Critique supported by MEAA
Sports Journalism supported by QSport
Multicultural Reporting supported by MEAA
Social Issues Reporting supported by Independent Education Union
Indigenous Issues Reporting supported by Queensland Council of Unions
Broadcast Interview supported by QLD Police Union
Artwork, Cartoon, Illustration or Graphic supported by Media Super
Innovation supported by Telstra
Three Headings supported by Ten News First
Most Outstanding Final Year Journalism Student – Graduating 2021 supported by O’Brien Accountants
New Journalist of the Year supported by MEAA
Print/Text News Report supported by Nine Queensland
Print/Text Feature Article supported by Local Government Association of Queensland
Radio News Current Affairs supported by MEAA
Radio Documentary and podcast supported by Media Super
Best Metropolitan News Photograph supported by MEAA
Photographic Essay supported by MEAA
TV News Report supported by MEAA
TV Current Affairs, Feature, Documentary or Special Broadcast supported by QLD Police Union
The John Bean Memorial Award for Television Camerawork supported by ABC
Regional And Community Feature Article or Opinion Piece supported by Serafino Wines
Regional And Community News Report – Print/Text supported by MEAA
Regional and Community – Broadcast Report supported by MEAA
Regional and Community: News Photograph supported by Seven Network (Brisbane)
Investigative Journalism supported by MEAA
Journalist of the Year supported by MEAA
Outstanding Contribution supported by The University of QLD
Nancy Bates, winner of the 2020 Clarion for Most Outstanding Contribution to Journalism.
Rural Journalism supported by Rural Press Club
Judges’ comments: “Sarah Elks’ Grosvenor investigation is a showcase of journalism at its finest – exclusively obtained documents, tenacious reporting, a thorough and detailed examination of the facts, a distillation of complex subject matter into a form that can be easily understood, backed up by a timeline of events and punchy analysis. Relying on trusted sources and human case studies, Sarah’s work seeks to hold government, business and other stakeholders to account.”
Health Reporting supported by MEAA
Judges’ comments: “The COVID 19 story is a huge and rapidly-moving one, with so much information it is easy for the consumer to be overwhelmed. This work simplifies complex data by using a conversational tone with easy-to-understand graphics. The main feature is its simplicity of style and design which makes the information easier to digest. It is the sort of production that enables people to remember the content. The creativity and innovative thinking behind this work make it a standout entry.”
Business Journalism supported by O’Brien Accountants
Judges’ comments: “What started out as a hunch between two journalists led to a deep-dive investigation that revealed an investment black hole. Liam Walsh and Jonathan Shapiro’s coverage of Mayfair 101 was put under extra pressure when all the related advertising was withdrawn from their paper. Their investigation ultimately illustrated why stories like theirs must be pursued in the face of financial and outside pressures.”
Commentary, Analysis, Opinion and Critique supported by MEAA
Judges’ comments: “Good journalism depends upon informed opinion: facts that lead to a reasonable conclusion. Liberally mix that with a rare talent like Mike O’Connor’s, and you have a deliciously potent cocktail. Mike’s musings here have a light touch that combine humour, style and bite. The stuff from which ideas grow.”
Sports Journalism supported by QSport
Judges’ comments: “The judges felt that the entry demonstrated an in-depth knowledge of the round and good maintenance of contacts. Eliza broke new angles which helped move the story forward and eventually led to a backdown from SLSA. She used a mixture of news and feature writing to tell the story.
“Entries from Peter Badel for The Courier Mail and Brittney Kleyn, for the ABC rounded out a strong field for the Sports Journalism category this year.”
Multicultural Reporting supported by MEAA
Judges’ comments: “The destruction of stone walls to make way for a hospital car park in Cudgen, NSW, could have been unremarkable. Stefan Armbruster’s report brought home just how important the walls were to the descendants of the South Sea Islander labourers who built them. It was a moving story, highlighting the little known history of possibly Australia’s worst-treated migrant group. Stefan’s diverse stories from multicultural communities were of deep significance to the people involved. Congratulations Stefan.”
Social Issues Reporting supported by Independent Education Union
Judges’ comments: “This was a difficult category to judge because of the sheer volume and high quality of entries as well as diverse range of social issues. Josh Bavas’ exclusive report on a Colombian student’s David and Goliath battle to get his cancer treatment covered by a multinational health insurer, at the height of the coronavirus pandemic was a powerful piece of public interest journalism. Sensitively handled, the reporting achieved maximum impact in a matter of life and death.”
Indigenous Issues Reporting supported by Queensland Council of Unions
Judges’ comments: “Amy McQuire has a deep, personal connection to her story ‘White Justice, Black Suffering’. Her research helps the reader discern clarity of an important topic with immense psychological complexity. The compelling story flows seamlessly, and cleverly explores case studies and professional opinion. If great journalism is to inform and educate, this piece ticks all the right boxes. While first-person rarely works as a writing technique, judges felt this was a rare case which demanded the author’s emotive connection to an issue many people would struggle to understand.”
Broadcast Interview supported by QLD Police Union
Judges’ comments: “This is a standout example of live reporting, with Tim Arvier taking his viewers into the chaos of the Minneapolis Black Lives Matter protests. Standing in the middle of the mayhem, with police at one end reluctant to intervene and protesters at the other hovering over an injured man, Tim navigated the tension and danger of the situation to report fairly and accurately on the stand off. It is a textbook perfect example of live news reporting incorporating on the spot interviews which informed viewers and offered buy-in to a critical moment in US history.”
Artwork, Cartoon, Illustration or Graphic supported by MEAA
Judges’ comments: “Starting with just a blank canvas, Tony Bela has put together a pivotal moment in history. It is easy to understand, using wording, graphics, great colouring and a wonderful flow for the reader. The result is a graphic that belongs in every classroom, and will educate adults too. The story of the moon landing has never looked better.”
Innovation supported by Telstra
Judges’ comments: “The judges felt, in a field of outstanding online content, this entry by the ABC News Digital team demonstrated a very deliberate approach to personalised information delivery and individual engagement. Examining an often-heard statement in the complicated area of climate change, “we had this weather when I was a child” the content felt connected, direct, and looked not only at past climate impacts but towards future modelling.
The construction of the platform was user-friendly while complex, and delivered effortlessly to the user. A clear intention to cut through a white-wash of information and reach the user was at the centre of this approach. A remarkable level of research and data analysis was transformed into something tangible and relatable. Leaving the user with knowledge as well as questions.”
Three Headings supported by Ten News First
Judges’ comments: “Crafting eye-catching headlines that hook a reader in is no easy feat, but Baz McAlister’s clever play on words certainly hits the mark. From the Royals “Windsor of our Discontent”.. to the great toilet paper shortage “Apoocalypse Now”, Baz ‘s work delivers a first impression that sells the story in a unique style, making him a deserving recipient of this award.”
Most Outstanding Final Year Journalism Student – Graduating 2020 supported by MEAA
Judges comments: “An outstanding entry introducing Nibir Khan as a big-picture storyteller. He shows a global perspective, even visiting a refugee camp in Bangladesh as a “one-man crew’’ to reveal the different lives of two Rohingya cousins – one living in Australia and the other in the camp. His work demonstrates original, important and ambitious journalism, of which much more experienced journalists would be proud.”
New Journalist of the Year supported by MEAA
New Journalist of the Year:
Judges’ comments: “Marian Faa was at the leading edge of a story of national interest – no mean feat for a young journalist in far north Queensland. Her reports on plans to trial Coronavirus drugs on soldiers addressed legitimate concerns and highlighted cracks in the process of a controversial decision. They were timely, topical and well-researched. Marian impressed the judges with her assured radio current affairs reporting.”
Print/Text News Report supported by Nine Queensland
Judges’ comments: “Kelmeny’s investigation into the wages and timesheet scandal at a popular Queensland hospitality chain was an excellent example of what can happen when a journalist keeps digging. Working from an initial tip-off she produced some compulsive reading that will hopefully lead to change within the industry.”
Print/Text Feature Article supported by Local Government Association of Queensland
Judges’ comments: “The judges felt this was an exquisitely written feature piece, which intertwined the stories of the people directly involved in such a devastating event. The stories brought together the elements the judges were looking for. A piece which showcased creative flair and left an impact on the reader, while the supporting article included strong newsworthy elements such as exclusive details about the man behind the devastating blaze, which had not be unearthed over the past two decades. All three judges identified this as an outstanding piece of journalism which took readers on the emotional journey, while uncovering chilling facts about the killer.”
Radio News Current Affairs supported by MEAA
Judges’ comments: “A standout amongst a high calibre of nominations, Mark Willacy’s report surrounding the alleged shooting of a disabled man in Afghanistan and its subsequent cover up demonstrated Willacy’s persistence and tenacity in storytelling. Willacy not only gained the trust of former SAS soldiers and witnesses to blow what was already an explosive previous Four Corners exclusive wide open, but he told it in a way that took listeners to the scene from the outset with his use of imagery and sound.”
Radio, Documentary and Podcast supported by MEAA
Judges’ comments: “David Murray, Chris Bosley and Eric George’s podcast was a captivating exploration of the mysterious disappearance of Belgian tourist Theo Hayez in Byron Bay last year. While there was a string of commendable crime-related podcasts in this year’s entries, “The Lighthouse” podcast was a stand-out. With slick production and with a well-written script – driven by Murray’s investigative reporting instincts – the podcast fleshed out new details and allowed listeners to become part of the investigation into the unsolved crime.”
Best Metropolitan News Photograph supported by MEAA
Judges’ comments: “His dramatic image of a mother’s fear and determination as she holds her baby with her world about to be engulfed. Dan showed a cool headed professionalism as he framed all of the elements to capture the horror of Australia’s last summer.”
Photographic Essay supported by MEAA
Judges’ comments: “In a field rich with images capturing aspects of the past year’s tumultuous events, the judges chose Lachie Millard’s multi-faceted series on last September’s fires that devastated familiar Sunshine Coast communities. Graphic action shots of brave firies confronting flames, helicopter water-bombing and kids escaping on bikes contrasted with bleak images of human sorrow amidst the ruins.”
TV News Report supported by QUT
Judges’ comments: “An obvious winner on every level of news reporting. Calm under pressure, no embellishment of the circumstances surrounding them, just raw reporting from a danger zone. Accurate and incisive, a movie producer would struggle to recreate the moving sequence of action Tim and Adam documented in vision and live voice over back to Australia. A perfect blend of gutsy camerawork and live commentary. A model of modern live news reporting that will be taught in journalism courses for years to come. The crew faced extreme danger together in this coverage. Television is a visual medium… cameraman Adam Bovino deserves equivalent praise for this award alongside his journalist Tim Arvier. Live TV at its best.”
TV Current Affairs, Feature, Documentary or Special Broadcast supported by QLD Police Union
Judges’ comments: “Mark Willacy has again set the benchmark for this category with an outstanding piece of investigative and agenda setting work. ‘Killing Field’ meticulously uncovered never before seen proof that some of our elite soldiers committed war crimes in Afghanistan. It required gaining the trust of members of the notoriously secretive special forces, as well as months of painstaking research and verification. It ticked every judging criteria for the category; incisive, impact, public benefit. The story was followed by every major news outlet nationally and internationally, in what is a forerunner to undoubtedly the most significant scandal facing Australia’s defence forces in the months ahead.”
The John Bean Memorial Award for Television Camerawork supported by ABC
Judges’ comments: “The three finalists demonstrated the many aspects of a good television news package in different ways. The camerawork helps to tell the story. The photography must be of a high standard but the essential elements needed to edit a story together in a logical way must be there. These include close-ups, interesting angles, variety of shot sizes and good cutting points.
“Stephen Cavenagh’s Stanthorpe Fire footage complemented the script and also showed a very good eye and some excellent compositions. Peter Collins’ Toowoomba House Fire story showed and conveyed the drama of a rescue and was very well covered so as to tell the story well.
“The winning entry by Luke Dorrington was a package of three news stories and two live crosses in outback Queensland. The photography in each was well executed and took advantage of the best times of day for light. Clever angles in the first story gave extra interest and in all there was a good variety that kept the story moving. The live shots were well composed and lit to make the best advantage of the background.”
Regional and Community Feature Article or Opinion Piece – Print/Text supported by MEAA
Judges’ comments: “Paul Weston’s insightful piece adds textured layers to a story outline that is familiar to readers in his region. The feature relays the human story behind the facts and affords a voice to all players in the sad saga, painting word pictures without obvious sentiment or sympathy. It is thoroughly researched, well crafted, and commendably balanced.”
Regional and Community News Report – Print/Text supported by MEAA
Judges’ comments: “Madura McCormack’s series ‘Clive’s Cash’ was a stand-out entry for its research and public impact. Drawing on ASIC records and contacts, Madura revealed Clive Palmer’s financial backing of Independent candidate for Townsville City Council Greg Dowling. This brought national attention to the issue of local government electoral funding. Strong journalism.”
Regional and Community – Broadcast Report supported by MEAA
Judges’ comments: “Douglas Smith’s story was a standout from an excellent field. His story gave viewers an insight into a sensitive issue that would never get similar coverage from mainstream media. It was a well produced piece that gave the viewer terrific detail and showcased his skill set, contacts and knowledge of the issue.”
Regional and Community News Photograph supported by Seven Network (Brisbane)
Judges’ comments: “Alistair’s thoughtful image, brings together three elements: a beautiful environment, couples walking together and the necessity of social distancing. The image symbolises the long shadow the pandemic has cast over all of us. Alistair lifted what could have been a standard weather pic to a portrait of the world we have all been forced to adjust to.”
Investigative Journalism supported by MEAA
Judges’ comments: “Mark Willacy’s investigation into Australia’s elite special forces was compelling viewing. The never before seen footage, damning interview with Braden Chapman backed up by local villagers truly revealed the extent of the “Killing Field”. The ramifications of this Four Corners report for our soldiers and the military as a whole will be far reaching. “Killing Field” encompasses the attributes of a fine investigative report. The extensive research and ability to cultivate contacts to take part in the story, combined with the strong vision, good scripting and interviewing makes it compelling viewing. The bravery of the whistleblower and the reporting team in pursuing this impactful story is evident.”
Most Outstanding Contribution to Journalism supported by The University of QLD
Judges’ comments: “Nancy Bates is a legend of Queensland journalism – the state’s first ever woman editor of a daily newspaper, a ferocious advocate for her regional community and an invaluable mentor for a generation of journalists.
“She wrote an estimated 5.500 editorials for the Fraser Coast Chronicle during her 20 years in the editor’s chair – some of the campaigns she successfully fought for included changes to the law which had allowed men to rape their estranged wives, and convincing local schools to teach the language of the region’s traditional owners, the Butchulla. That campaign won the newspaper a United National Media Peace Award in 2008. This year the Premier named Nancy as one of nine Queensland Greats, describing her as a trailblazer in the truest sense.
“Nancy began her career in 1966 as a cadet for New Zealand’s Bay of Plenty Times – and joined the Chronicle four years later.
“When she retired in 2009, the then Premier Anna Bligh paid tribute to her 43 year career, telling parliament Nancy was known for her colourful turn of phrase and fiery words about all politicians.
“In her retirement, Nancy continues to make a weekly contribution to the publication. The Chronicle’s present editor Jessica Grewal says Nancy often sends through breaking news and well-told local profiles, helping a community still grieving the loss of the local print newspaper.
“The Fraser Coast Chronicle first published in 1860 as the Maryborough Chronicle, is one of more than 20 mastheads throughout Queensland that ceased printing a newspaper this year and moved to a digital only service.
“It is fitting that at the end of this era, we pay tribute to one of the regional Queensland’s champions of journalism.”
Journalist of the Year 2020 supported by MEAA
Judges’ comments: “The judges complimented Tim on his courageous cross from the heart of the riots in Minneapolis – a compelling 17 minutes of live television that brought to the lounge rooms of Australia the chaos that was unfolding on the streets of America – as it happened, in real time.
“Tim and his camera operator Adam Bovino worked seamlessly as a team as bricks were thrown and tear gas fired all around them. Tim kept a cool head and his professional composure, delivering colourful but precise commentary to the pictures being captured; at one point even remembering to apologise for the language when protestors yelled out the F word! But the cross itself was just 17 minutes of the days Tim spent on the front line of the riots, negotiating roadblocks, risking arrest – and worse – to produce top-quality television journalism that would captivate audiences anywhere in the world. At one point he was even detained at gun point by police.
“If great journalism involves having courage and engaging your audience through compelling storytelling, Tim Arvier has proven a worthy recipient of the 2020 Queensland Journalist of the Year.”
Rural Journalism supported by Rural Press Club
Health Reporting supported by MEAA
Business Journalism supported by O’Brien Accountants
Commentary, Analysis, Opinion & Critique supported by Three Plus
Sports Journalism supported by QSport
Multicultural Reporting supported by MEAA
Social Issues Reporting supported by Independent Education Union
Indigenous Issues Reporting supported by Queensland Council of Unions
Broadcast Interview supported by QLD Police Union
Artwork, Cartoon, Illustration or Graphic supported by Media Super
Multimedia Journalism supported by Telstra
Three Headings supported by Ten News First
Most Outstanding Final Year Journalism Student – Graduating 2019 supported by MEAA
New Journalist of the Year supported by RACQ
Print/Text News Report supported by Nine News Queensland
Print/Text Feature Article supported by Local Government Association of Queensland
Radio News Report supported by MEAA
Radio Current Affairs, Feature, Documentary or Special Broadcast supported by Media Super
Best Metropolitan News Photograph supported by Brisbane City Council
Photographic Essay supported by MEAA
TV News Report supported by QUT
TV Current Affairs, Feature, Documentary or Special Broadcast supported by QLD Police Union
The John Bean Memorial Award for Television Camerawork supported by ABC
Regional And Community Feature Article or Opinion Piece supported by Serafino Wines
Regional And Community News Report – Print/Text supported by New Hope Group
Regional and Community – Broadcast Report supported by Adoni Media
Regional and Community: News Photograph supported by Seven
Investigative Journalism supported by Brisbane Airport Corporation
Most Outstanding Contribution to Journalism supported by The University of QLD
Journalist of the Year 2019 supported by Griffith University
All the winners of the 2018 Queensland Clarion Awards.
More than 430 entries were submitted for the 2018 awards ranging across many categories including crime, the environment and politics. Read on for all this year’s winners and finalists.
All Media – Business Journalism
Sponsored by O’Brien Accounting
Winner:
Finalists:
Judges’ Comment: The judges agreed that the standard of entries in the business journalism category was extremely high this year, and all the finalists should be congratulated. This year’s winning entry – ‘A Whisky Business’ – was a truly outstanding piece of journalism. It tells the story of hundreds of unwary investors seduced by a seemingly successful, high-end brand and duped into purchasing often non-existent barrels of whisky on the promise of generous returns. The impact of this scam was wide-reaching. The story involved extensive research and featured exclusive interviews with individual investors, former staff, the company’s former brand ambassador Matthew Hayden, and the head of the company that was left to deal with the fallout. It was beautifully constructed and masterful story-telling, distilling a complex subject into an accessible and compelling tale where the final chapter, police investigations in both Queensland and Tasmania, is yet to be played out.
All Media – Commentary, Analysis, Opinion & Critique
Sponsored by Three Plus
Winner:
Finalists:
Judges’ comment: This was a strong, diverse field that emphasises how well served Queenslanders are for quality commentary. The winner, Paul Syvret, deftly crafts wit and wisdom to produce well researched arguments that leave you in no doubt of his opinion. These three examples embody the demanding art of compelling opinion writing. His piece on Lady Bjelke-Petersen was a particularly potent outlier that swam against the tide of emotion that followed the former politician’s death. His linkage of Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton’s treatment of overstaying au pairs to that on offer for asylum seekers was proselytization at its most powerful. Column three was a clever use of same-sex marriage opponents’ own words to expose the paucity of proof in their arguments for the status quo. A worthy winner whose weekly columns will be sorely missed.
All Media – Health Reporting
Sponsored by Bond University
Winner:
Finalists:
Special Mention
Judges’ comment: “Healing Hands” is a moving testament to the pioneering work of retired Queensland burns surgeon, Doctor Stuart Pegg, whose work has placed Queensland at the forefront of burns treatment in the world. Janelle Miles pens a lucid exposition of Dr Pegg that captures the skill, compassion and humanity that has healed the bodies and soothed the minds of countless Queensland burns victims. Miles seamlessly transits from poignant descriptions of an extraordinary ‘bedside’ manner to chronicle the determination and persistence that has placed Queensland’s specialist burns support among the world’s best. “Healing Hand” is a feature piece of the highest order and a worthy winner of this category.
All Media – Broadcast Interview
Sponsored by Qld Police Union
Winner:
Finalists:
Judges’ comment: Ben Murphy’s short, but high-impact, interview with a One Nation candidate during an election press conference gave viewers and the party’s leader a shock. The reporter made the best use of information he found on a website linked to a sex shop owned by the candidate; information that was news to party leader Pauline Hanson, who was standing next to him. Ben Murphy came to the press conference well armed with the fresh information. His clinical questioning, focussing on comments on the sex shop’s social media site, and the responses from an angry party leader who didn’t like those questions, made for captivating television and showed democracy in the raw. As Ben Murphy said, “Nothing beats genuine surprise in politics.”
All Media – Indigenous Issues Reporting
Sponsored by Queensland Council of Unions
Winner:
Finalists:
Judges’ comment: The judges thought this was a great, in-depth dig into improper use of money from an Indigenous organisation. After this story, a resulting Federal Court Case found the money was linked to an illegal deal with Adani. The judges commended her tenacity and high quality journalistic skill to pursue the story while. The judges also thank everyone who entered; there were great, quality stories covering a range of issues.
All Media – Most Outstanding Journalism Student
Sponsored by Media Super
Winner:
Highly Commended/Finalist
Finalists:
Judges’ comment: “The judges found Tayla’s story submissions instantly engaging, with a focus on letting the subjects tell their stories in their own words. Her submissions showed great range, from social issues such as a piece on eating disorders, to highlighting stories of remarkable people such as a nearly-blind artist. Tayla’s writing style is mature and polished, and her video submissions showed a keen eye for visual storytelling, allowing the details to flow naturally at their own pace. Her work shows self-driven initiative and a natural curiosity about a range of subjects which will serve her well and she progresses in her career.”
All Media – Multicultural Reporting
Sponsored by MEAA
Winner:
Finalists:
Judges’ comment: The judges thought this story was a surprising and timely look at how immigration can work during dog whistling about African gangs in Melbourne. The story highlighted Toowoomba’s success story and helped to challenge the audience’s perception of immigration.
All Media – Rural Journalism
Sponsored by Rural Press Club
Winner:
Highly Commended/Finalist
Finalist:
Judges’ comment: In this competitive category, the Tension on the Track reports stood out for their strong story-telling and public impact. Dominque Schwartz and Alexandra Blucher took viewers on a multi-media journey to communities affected by one of the Federal Government’s biggest and most controversial projects. The result was an innovative mix of colourful features, hard news and insightful analysis. Judges also highly commended Leisa Scott’s beautifully written piece on the positive experiences of seasonal workers
All Media – Social Issues Reporting
Sponsored by Independent Education Union
Winner:
Finalists:
Judges’ comment: Despite the large number of entries demonstrating excellence in this year’s Reporting Social or Community issues category, the judges were unanimous in deciding the winning entry. The judges all agreed the ABC Radio Brisbane Focus entry How Can a DV Abuser Change was extremely powerful. This story featured two domestic violence perpetrators, who had previously been jailed, telling their stories and sharing their rehabilitation. Contemporary media coverage often features people experiencing Domestic Abuse but rarely do we hear from perpetrators in such a confronting and honest way. Of particular note is the significant level of trust established with the perpetrators that allowed them to share their stories in such a compelling manner. Importantly in this program the perpetrators took responsibility for their actions, understood the need for change, and gave advice to abusers who may have been listening making this a significant conversation about this urgent social issue.
All Media – Sports Journalism
Sponsored by MEAA
Winner:
Finalist:
Judges’ comment:
Judges felt Turf War was an excellent example of investigative sports reporting. Andrew Hamilton and Peter Badel went past the sports sheds to examine the serious issues around the long-term viability of Queensland’s most beloved football clubs. Delving into their balance sheets and working a range of contacts across the codes, their systematic investigation of operating costs in Queensland, compared with other states, uncovered crippling, government-sanctioned gouging that forced the Premier herself to step in. The series saw Annastacia Palaszczuk announce her own probe of the issues. The Stadiums Queensland board were ultimately sacked and new, fairer contracts were signed, including one that saved the Gold Coast Titans $300,000 a year and helped safeguard their survival.
All Media – New Journalist of the Year
Sponsored by QLD Parliamentary Media Gallery
Winner:
Finalist:
Special Mention:
Judges’ comment:Amy’s compassionate and ethical approach when faced with a sensitive story results in powerful storytelling. Her Body of Work includes the widow’s story of a surgeon’s suicide and the bravery of an 80 year old who stopped an domestic attack. These are powerful examples of stories that move you, full of terrific observations and a journalists curiosity. Amy’s curiosity is evident when she says she takes a story and ‘sees where it leads’. This is a take home for all new journalists.
All Media – Investigative Journalism
Sponsored by Brisbane Airport Corporation
Winner:
Finalist:
Special Mention:
Judges’ comment: ‘Entries in this category were of an exceptionally high standard and spanned a breadth of mediums, treatment and approaches. Collectively, the judges found them a reassuring reminder that quality investigative journalism is alive and well, and continuing to serve the public interest. The three finalists were outstanding, making the choice of Mangocube by Michael McKenna, Sean Parnell and Sarah Elks particularly difficult and much discussed. This investigation from scratch over many months stood out as genuine breaking news that continues to raise serious questions about decision-making at the highest levels of the Palaszczuk Government. It was dogged, traditional journalism that exposed uncomfortable truths despite a legal blitzkrieg designed to thwart publication. The series has led to two Crime and Corruption Commission investigations and an overhaul of ministerial rules regarding back-channel communications. It continues as a source of discomfort for the State Government.’
All Media – Multimedia Journalism
Sponsored by Telstra
Winner:
Finalists:
Judges’ comment: This entry by Melanie Pilling, Peter Hall and Daniel Knowles is an outstanding example of quality journalism and the impact a story can have when published across a number of platforms and publications. With child drowning numbers increasing at an alarming rate, the team from the Courier Mail developed an extraordinary and innovative campaign that highlighted the tragic situation, capturing the attention of the entire state in the process. Pooling resources and thinking outside the square, the Courier Mail team convinced every single one of its sister publications and websites across Queensland to run the same front page on the same day, creating world newspaper history. In what was described as an exhaustive collaboration, some 46 newspapers and their respective websites were involved, delivering a co-ordinated message that took the publication of a particular news story to a new level that resonated with readers.
All Media – Cartoon Illustration or Graphic
Sponsored by MEAA
Winner:
Finalist :
Judges’ comment: This category was judged on the best use of creativity, wit, style and newsworthiness through artistic media. Once, graphics were confined to simple on-screen supers, but they now extend to creating integrations, visual packages and virtual sets. The best of news graphics deliver additional flair to broadcasts and enhance the impact news stories have on the viewing audience. They are created under tight deadlines in the context of a breaking news environment. Channel 7’s submission, which features graphics for stories as diverse as 2018 election, Queen’s baton relay, and an NRL tips segment, achieved this with polish and sophistication that all looks deceivingly simple to the entertained and informed viewer. A commendation to the Nine News entry.
News Photograph- Metropolitan
Sponsored by Network 10
Winner:
Finalists:
Judges’ comment:Winning and losing is a battle, the kind of battle that often takes place in the blink of an eye. Any news photographer attempting to capture that blink is acutely aware when he or she’s witnessing history in the making. The image captured, if successful, will become timeless, encapsulating that one epochal event. Any truly great photograph, as we all know, provides the viewer with the who, what, when, where and why of what’s happening. But there is another ingredient that falls outside these categories. It’s called emotion, and whether it be grief or triumph it is always an elusive quarry. This image has captured forever the exultation and ecstasy etched across boxer Jeff Horn’s face as the realization dawns: “I’m champion of the world.”
Photographic Essay
Sponsored by MEAA
Winner:
Highly Commended/Finalist:
Finalists:
Judges’ comment: Brian Cassey stand-out entry captured poignant and dramatic images in a high-stakes operation to sneak into the former Australian-run Manus Island detention centre under the noses of Papua New Guinea and Australian authorities. The first Australian journalists on site in years with Rory Callinan, Brian had just 18 minutes on the ground to shoot the photos used widely across News Ltd outlets and elsewhere. They showed the world the appalling conditions the 600 men were living in after a PNG court ordered the detention centre “illegal” and close for breaching the country’s constitution. A special mention for fellow finalist Dylan Crawford for his photo essay “StolenWealth Games”, with judges saying this student journalist showed huge future potential.
Print/Text – Feature Article
Sponsored by Local Government Association of Queensland
Winner:
Finalist:
Judges’ comment: The judges were impressed with the excellent standard of entries in this category, but agreed that Kate Kyriacou’s was the standout piece. Kate’s storytelling blended already known facts of this distressing event with previously untold, yet vital details. This gave the reader a deeper insight into how the story unfolded, and how the CCC processes helped to bring about the eventual convictions. The judges took into account the creative online presentation of the story, the perfect balance of facts and emotion in the writing, and the excellent use of social media exchanges at the time.
Print/Text – News Report
Sponsored by Nine News Brisbane
Winner:
Finalists:
Judges’ comment: The entry by Mark Willacy and Alexandra Blucher exposed serious allegations of corruption within the Logan City Council. The year-long investigation culminated in the arrest of Mayor Luke Smith who was charged with multiple offences including perjury. The tenacity and determination of both journalists is evident is this stand-out entry, having painstakingly searched through reams of council documents, conducted freedom-of-information requests and ultimately uncovered inconsistencies in the Mayor’s statements. This series included exclusive content that sparked a CCC investigation highlighting the real-world results that are possible through dedication reporting.
Print /Text – Best Three Headings
Sponsored by Seven Network
Winner:
Finalists:
Judges’ comment: Baz has submitted three headlines that stand out for their vitality, originality and wit. Under the pressure of tight newspaper deadlines, he stopped us on the page and compelled us to read on. On the diverse topics of a TV anchorman’s departure, Cyclone Debbie’s blackout baby boom and the labour-inducing potential of Jeff Horn’s impending world title fight, Baz demonstrated his versatility and flair for the invaluable art of headline writing.
Radio/Audio – Current Affairs, Feature Documentary or Special
Sponsored by Watpac
Winner:
Highly Commended/ Finalist
Finalist:
Judges’ comment: The Teacher’s Pet, a Queensland produced investigative podcast series into the disappearance of Lyn Dawson 36 years ago has become a worldwide phenomenon. Two coroners ruled she had been killed by her husband, the now Queensland resident Chris Dawson but he has never been charged. Journalist Hedley Thomas investigated the suspected murder of the mother-of-two over six months. Thomas and audio producer and composer Slade Gibson then produced 14 weekly episodes in a live investigation format that allowed new witnesses and evidence to be presented as it was being unearthed. As a result, police have taken statements from new witnesses over the disappearance, launched Task Force Southwood to investigate historical sexual assaults and student teacher relationships on Sydney’s northern beaches. There has also been a public apology from NSW police Commissioner Mick Fuller to Mrs Dawson’s family for past police failings in their investigation. The series has had more than 14 million downloads and went to the top of the ITunes podcast charts in Australia, UK, NZ, Canada and the USA.
Radio/ Audio – News Report
Sponsored by MEAA
Winner:
Finalist:
Judges’ comment: An ability to turn the beige in to something bright, and a tactile talent in explaining why the machinations of George St and beyond are worthy of the attention of the every-day ‘normal’ Queenslander made Chris O’Brien’s ‘Body of Work’ submission the uncontested winner of this category. While the judging panel did debate at length the specifics around what constitutes a ‘Radio News Report’, it was unanimously agreed that the newsworthiness of the content collated and shared by Mr O’Brien in an engaging, compelling and often entertaining manner made the journalist a worthy winner. The judges were impressed by the very high standard of entries in this category in 2018, but noted a decline in submissions compared to previous years.
Regional & Community – Print/ Text: News Report
Sponsored by AGL Energy
Winner:
Highly Commended/Finalist:
Finalist:
Judges’ comment: These stories combined to put a spotlight on the Gold Coast city council, ultimately leading to a ccc probe. The investigative nature of this work was outstanding. Judges were impressed with the quality of entries.
Regional & Community – Broadcast Report
Sponsored by MEAA
Winner:
Finalist:
Judges’ comment: Drought is a regular story in Queensland, but the judges felt Nicole Bond’s series brought fresh attention and new perspectives to an important news story that had, at the time, slipped off the radar. The reporting required a large amount of research, cajoling and travelling, and the result was a series of stories well produced for radio, television and online. That such high-quality reports can be produced almost singlehandedly by the reporter demonstrates how skilled regional journalists have become in reporting across a range of platforms. The reporter’s writing and photography were outstanding, as was the impact from this series of reports.
Regional & Community – Print /Text: Feature Article or Opinion:
Sponsored by Serafino Wines
Winner:
Finalists:
Judges’ comment: The judges congratulate all who entered this category. Whether it was giving big national issues a local focus or highlighting a feature of living in regional Australia, each entry was of a high quality. However, Sherele Moody’s series of articles about violence were a standout. Sherele combined intensely personal information with sharp analysis to produce truly memorable and original commentary on a difficult subject.personal and compellingly written.
Regional & Community – News Photograph
Sponsored by MEAA
Winner:
Finalists:
Judges’ comment: This series of photos is a powerful example of news photography at its best. Timely, newsworthy and delivering real impact, they revealed and documented emotions and tensions in a community divided by strongly held views, with conservation on one side and job creation in a region under intense pressure on the other. The photographer anticipated the clash and responded quickly to capture strong, dynamic action shots. Each of the extraordinary photos told a different story and invited the viewer to spend more time considering the positions and emotions of the people within it, including the fascinating interplay of power balance between the tiny female policewoman and the angry protestor.
Television – Current Affairs, Feature Documentary
Sponsored by Queensland Police Union
Winner:
Finalists:
Judges’ comment: All That Glitters was an incisive feature story that was thoroughly researched, planned and presented. It was a stand out in the category, tackling head-on issues with clear public interest and benefit. Matters raised in this feature helped spark local government reforms, and a fresh investigation by the Queensland corruption watchdog. The expose prompted repeated attacks on the Four Corners program, including a defamation action, by Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate. It stood out in a very strong field of contenders showcasing excellent quality journalism’
Television – The John Bean Award for News and Current Affairs Camerawork
Sponsored by ABC
Winner:
Judges’ comment: The judges commended Brendan Mounter for demonstrating a clear understanding of what is required to tell a story through pictures. By awarding this prestigious honour the judges recognised a high level of potential in the future for this multi-skilled storyteller.
Television News Report
Sponsored by QUT Creative Industries
Winner:
Finalists:
Special Mention
Judges’ comment: The judges found the quality of the entries in this category to be exceptionally high. The winning entry, featuring the arrest of Ipswich Mayor Andrew Antoniolli was one of the biggest news stories of the year, on the back of the arrest of previous Ipswich Mayor Paul Pisale. Seven broke the story with vision of Antoniolli entering the Ipswich police station to be charged with official corruption. The story demonstrates strong contacts, and great collaboration between the Crime Editor and journalists and crew. This is an important story in the still-unfolding investigation into local government corruption in Queensland. The judges were also impressed with the other two finalists. Channel 7’s coverage of the manhunt and siege involving Slatko Sikorsky was well-presented, well scripted and contained compelling original vision on the M1; and exclusive witness interviews. The Hanson Sex Shop story shows the great importance and impact of journalistic initiative – journalist Ben Murphy went outside the scripted agenda on the Battler Bus to uncover the questionable background of recently announced One Nation candidate for Thuringowa. The Judges have also Highly Commended ABC journalists Alex Blucher and Mark Willacy for their Logan City Council investigative stories which showed strong research, exclusive vision and information of great public importance.
Most Outstanding Contribution to Journalism
Sponsored by The University of Queensland
Winner:
Judges’ comment: Our winner started journalism in 1973 as a newspaper cadet, three years later moved to the broadcast arena and has never – as far as we can tell – looked back. Newspaper journalism was the loser. He has worked for channels 2, 7, 9 and Sky, and may even have sneaked in a couple more gigs elsewhere in his annual holidays. Wherever he worked he inspired friendship for his personality, admiration for his skills and gratitude for his mentoring. He has demonstrated to almost an entire generation of Australian broadcast journalists, as one colleague said, that “you could garner a huge viewing audience and do quality journalism at the same time”. It’s not just Queensland journalism that has gained – he has had a great effect nationally, and is a worthy recipient of the Most Valued Contribution to Journalism award.
2018 Queensland Journalist of the Year
Sponsored by Griffith University
Winner:
Judges’ comment: In her four-part in-depth coverage of the short life and tragic death of 12-year-old Tiahleigh Palmer, Kate Kyriacou showed what exceptional use an experienced, highly skilled journalist can make of a raft of contacts. Added to that she deployed high range interviewing skills and the ability to persuade sources to open their files – and their memories – about distressing events. As with all effective journalistic narratives, only time will tell if Kate’s work will lead to attitude changes that can make life safer for victims such as Tiahleigh, or indeed hasten the apprehension of those who commit such horrendous crimes. But there is a good chance that it will because her work has laid completely bare the circumstances around Tiahleigh’s murder, and those who followed the series will certainly not let the memory slide.
More than 450 entries were submitted for the 2017 awards ranging across many categories including crime, the environment and politics.
The winners of this year’s Clarions were announced at a gala presentation dinner on Saturday 26th August in the Boulevard Room of the Brisbane Exhibition and Convention Centre, Southbank, Brisbane.
The Courier-Mail‘s David Murray was named the 2017 Queensland Journalist of the Year. The Clarion judges said: “After being approached by the parents of missing schoolgirl Rachel Antonio, David conceived the idea of a podcast that could uncover seemingly neglected aspects of the investigation into her disappearance. It took him four months of research, planning and travel as he traced and recorded witnesses, sourced material and scripted five episodes of 35-40 minutes each, with the assistance of digital editor Sean Callinan… David’s work has opened the door to the possible solving of the mystery of her disappearance and giving her grieving parents some resolution.”
John Henningham of Brisbane’s JSchool was acknowledged for his 40 years of service by being awarded the Clarion for Most Oustanding Contribution to Journalism. The judges commented: “It is difficult to over-emphasise the impact that John Henningham has had on Australian journalism… John broke ground by gaining the first Australian doctorate in journalism and becoming the country’s first journalism professor, then continued his pioneering work with JSchool, which for decades has imparted the professional skills that young journalists need, coupled with rigorous academic teaching.”
The All-Media Clarion for New Journalist of the Year went to the Townsville Bulletin’s Chris McMahon. “His coverage of major crime events in North Queensland was thorough, comprehensive and well-written. Chris used his contacts and initiative to find fresh leads and new angles to produce pages of gripping content,” the judges said. MEAA proudly congratulates all the winners of the 2017 Clarion Awards.
All Media – Business Journalism
• Liam Walsh: The Courier-Mail: Caught in a corrupt web
All Media – Commentary, Analysis, Opinion & Critique
• Sherele Moody: The Daily Telegraph‘s Rendezview, Various: Agent of Change
All Media – Health and Wellness
• Elissa Lawrence: QWeekend, The Courier-Mail: True Grit
All Media – Broadcast Interview
• Bruce Atkinson: Various ABC Radio programs: Drama At Long Tan
All Media – Indigenous Issues Reporting
• Michael Atkin: ABC TV’s 7.30 Program: Rough justice: The Treatment of Young Indigenous Offenders in North QLD
All Media – Most Outstanding Journalism Student
• Jessica Stewart: QUT: Body of Work
All Media – Multicultural Queensland Award
• Kristine Taylor, Roger Carter, Greg Hassall: ABC TV’s Australian Story: Australian Story: A Field of Dreams
All Media – Rural Journalism
• Dominique Schwartz: ABC TV’s 7pm News: Death Row Dingos
All Media – Social Issues Reporting
• Kirstin Murray, Roger Carter: ABC TV’s Australian Story: Tough Love
All Media – Sports Journalism
• Grantlee Kieza: The Courier-Mail: The Jeff Horn-Manny Pacquiao fight
All Media – New Journalist of the Year
• Chris McMahon: Townsville Bulletin: Body of work
All Media – Investigative Journalism
• Michael Atkin: ABC TV’s 7.30 Program, ABC News Online: Investigating the Rise and Fall of Careers Australia
All Media – Freelance Journalism
• Andrew McMillen: The Weekend Australian: Body of Work
All Media – Multimedia Journalism
• David Murray, Sean Callinan: The Courier-Mail, The Courier-Mail Online: Searching for Rachel Antonio
All Media – Cartoon Illustration or Graphic
• Tony Bela: The Courier-Mail: Dreamworld Tragedy
Photography – News Photograph- Metropolitan
• Annette Dew: The Courier-Mail: Faces of Tragedy
Photography – Photographic Essay
• Zak Simmonds: Townsville Bulletin: Crim Reality
Print/Text – Feature Article
• Andrew McMillen: The Weekend Australian: Dying Wish
Print/Text – News Report
• Mark Willacy, Alexandra Blucher: ABC News Online: Environment Series
Print /Text – Best Three Headings
• Daniel Johnson: Qweekend Magazine/The Courier-Mail: “Give a Dog a Clone”, “Four Legs and a Funeral” and “Winging It at Yoga Can Be a Real Gas”
Radio/Audio – Current Affairs, Feature Documentary or Special
• David Murray, Sean Callinan: The Courier-Mail Online: Searching for Rachel Antonio
Radio/ Audio – News Report
• Mark Jeffery: ABC Radio North & Far North Queensland: Farmers Attack Defence
Regional & Community – Print/ Text: News Report
• Paul Weston: Gold Coast Bulletin: Thin Grim Line
Regional & Community – Broadcast Report
• Ben Millington: ABC TV’s Lateline and AM Current Affairs Radio: Inside Cleveland Youth Detention
Regional & Community – Print /Text: Feature Article or Opinion
• Alexandria Utting, Paul Weston, Wayne Watson: Gold Coast Bulletin: Control Freak: The Tara Brown Murder
Regional & Community – News Photograph
• Justin Brierty: The Cairns Post: Don’t Shoot
Television – Current Affairs, Feature Documentary
• Paula Doneman, Michael Usher, Duncan McNab, Stephen Peters, Mark Llewellyn: Channel Seven: Murder Uncovered – Who killed Leanne Holland?
Television – The John Bean Award for News and Current Affairs Camerawork
• Scott Kyle: ABC TV’s 7.30 Program: Quinkan Country
Television News Report
• Nine News Team: Nine Network: Cyclone Debbie
Most Outstanding Contribution to Journalism
• John Henningham
2017 Queensland Journalist of the Year
• David Murray
All the winners of the 2016 awards.
Sponsored by Media Entertainment & Arts Alliance
Winner
Finalists
Judges’ comments:
“Kay McGrath and Paula Doneman’s interview with disgraced former Queensland police commissioner Terry Lewis was the stand-out in this year’s category. Based on meticulous research and hard-earned contacts, the Lewis interview was a chance to re-visit a key character from one of the state’s darkest periods. The experienced McGrath struck the right balance, allowing Lewis to put his side of the story but also holding him to account over his answers and his behaviour which ultimately led to him being jailed for corruption and fraud and stripped of his knighthood. There were also new revelations about Lewis’s time in jail. The archival research by Doneman, a veteran crime reporter, and McGrath also helped put the events in context for those who may not have been around for the Fitzgerald Inquiry. The Lewis interview showed the power of a long-form broadcast interview – something that is becoming increasingly rare in modern journalism.”
Sponsored by Brisbane Airport Corporation
Winner
Finalists
Judges’ comments:
“The collapse of Queensland Nickel was one of the biggest business stories of the year, with the Australian newspaper and the Financial Review often leading the coverage. In this highly competitive environment, the judges were impressed by Sarah Elk’s series of exclusives, including one of the defining details of the whole saga – Clive Palmer’s bizarre decision to go by the pseudonym Terry Smith.”
Sponsored by Three Plus
Winner
Finalists
Judges’ comments:
“Mark Ludlow’s columns filed for the Australian Financial Review represented an entertaining, informative and important collection of work. Addressing subjects as diverse as a sportsman’s near fatal medical condition, the personal side of life after politics for a former minister, profiles about key Queensland political figures and a critical look at the state Budget, Ludlow’s work both entertained and informed. His journalism revealed an ability to engage with a number of powerful and intriguing interview subjects and encourage some frank admissions in a manner that provided fertile material for comment. In some cases, his subjects opened up about topics which they had rarely discussed previously or in any great detail. As a result his work was always relevant and on occasion provided up to date insights or even information about controversial issues that had not been previously reported. The columns while lengthy were excellently back-grounded giving context to the new insights being presented. The result was a body of work that was both newsworthy and eminently readable. The pieces were exceedingly well researched, creatively solid, original and newsworthy.”
Sponsored by Diabetes Queensland
Winner
Finalists
Highly Commended
Judges’ comments:
“This real life or death drama had you in its grip from the start, with raw medical details of how a person is kept alive while waiting for an organ transplant. One family’s heartbreak in death, followed by another’s elation at a second chance of life through organ donation is conveyed with both directness and compassion. The story details how a grieving family’s decision to donate a loved one’s organs three years earlier not only saved the interviewee’s life, it allowed her to create a new one as she later had a baby. The judges felt the story not only creates an emotional response, but gives a direct call to action – to discuss organ donation with your family and make sure they know your wishes. Janelle said she set out to write a story that would ignite a community conversation about organ donation, and she succeeded.”
Sponsored by Queensland Council of Unions
Winner
Finalists
Highly Commended
Judges’ comments:
“All entries in this section were inspiring, covering a wide range of indigenous issues in an accurate, “non-highbrow” way with warmth, intelligence, empathy and humour. From this excellent work, including radio, television, print and online entries, we chose the best-prepared pieces which broke important news and walked readers inside indigenous communities. The judges were equally-impressed by the no-nonsense cultural sensitivity shown in all entries, allowing the reporting to be told in a straightforward way. The copy is one feature entry was truly gorgeous. However, one piece however stood out for all judges because it had the real news “wow factor”. This winning entry was well researched, written in good clean copy, accurately covered the community anger and anguish of a serious evolving issue and ultimately forced a change local authorities and developers. At the conclusion of a series of stories it broke the reality of a previously-undocumented mass grave of indigenous people – proven on underground radar – at one of Queensland’s earliest aboriginal missions, the Deebing Creek Mission near Ipswich as a housing development is being considered. And it left us asking “Why don’t we know about this?”
Sponsored by Media Super
Winner
Finalists
Judges’ comments:
“The judges agreed this was a very strong body of work across print, radio and television, showing a grasp of the three platforms. We were impressed with the range of subjects, from human interest stories such as the trans-gender and domestic violence stories to the Baden-Clay High Court case which distilled complex legal arguments to an easy-to-digest package for television. This showed a great understanding of not only the topical and complicated subject but of the medium and how to use it effectively. The judges also highly commended Jorgia White, especially her work on the human trafficking and child labour scandal in the cocoa industry.”
Sponsored by Media Entertainment & Arts Alliance
Winner
Finalists
Judges’ comments:
“A perceptive and skilfully-crafted piece that takes the reader into the home of an Afghan refugee, and her family, living in Toowoomba. “The Road Ahead” uses small details to paint a vivid picture of the challenges and benefits of the family’s new home in Australia, as well as providing insights into the lives they have left behind, and the difficult decision to leave. The piece steers clear of cliché and sentimentality, bringing a fresh perspective, currency and context to a much-covered topic. Leisa Scott treats her subjects with respect and sensitivity, whilst still being unafraid to ask difficult questions. A worthy contribution to the national debate on refugees and multiculturalism.”
Sponsored by Rural Press Club
Winner
Finalists’ road casting
Highly Commended
Judges’ comments:
“Kirstin’s entry, `Baby Cash’ was a gripping, well-executed story about a rare parasite active in warm water. It not only highlighted a single family’s pain, but revealed wider, potentially deadly implications for other rural households. Kirstin went to considerable effort to obtain interviews with the doctors and families affected. The piece was beautifully shot and edited, and told with empathy and insight through the eyes of the parents of baby Cash.”
Sponsored by Network Ten
Winner
Finalists
Judges’ comments:
“The panel thought that all three were excellent examples of the craft. In the case of Stefan Armbruster’s Manus Island Detention Centre stories, the fact that Stefan was able to get a camera INSIDE the centre, and shine a light on conditions that the Governments of Australia and PNG had gone to great lengths to keep covered up, made this a riveting story. In Trent Dalton’s chilling “Chain Reaction”, he was able to give a concrete example of the much-discussed (but rarely detailed) trans-generational cycle of sexual abuse. But the standout story in the category, the judges felt, was “These Women are not just statistics”. The team led by Heidi Davoren was able to bring to light each of these victims of violence in a way that the bare bones of their stories could not. While the stories could have been told in a traditional format, the use of hypertext links from each woman’s image (or the lack of an image, for cultural reasons) was considered a great example of using the online medium to its best advantage – creating a montage of interrelated stories within a single overarching portal. But behind the ‘bells and whistles’ of the presentation, more important than the medium, was the message. Each individual story was like a shock to the system, each ‘vignette’ made the judges feel anger, and sorrow, and grief. Taken as a combined whole, the judges felt this was an important, and truly award-worthy, piece of journalism.”
Sponsored by Lion
Winner
Finalists
Judges’ comments:
“She tackles an important but largely unreported subject, deaths in the boxing ring and identifies dangerous flaws in the system in Queensland and the Northern Territory. She uses Freedom of Information legislation to expose inaction from governments of both sides of politics in Queensland. The judges felt that of all the high quality entries in this category this was the campaign that could and should lead to changes in policy within the sport and at government level and could potentially even save young lives.”
Sponsored by Queensland Parliamentary Media Gallery
Winner
Finalists
Judges’ comments:
“The high standard of journalism among the emerging members of our industry gives great hope for the future. The three finalists exemplified that in their talent, professionalism and commitment to the craft. Rhian Deutrom‘s work was a stand-out for her comprehensive and revealing stories on the problems at Lady Cilento Hospital and contamination in Oakey. The judges were particularly impressed with Rhian’s tenacious reporting in getting to the truth of the Department of Defence’s cover-up of its toxic mess in the Darling Downs’ community. Rhian led the coverage of the emerging scandal, and delivered exclusive reports that exposed the government. It led to the federal government announcing a $55 million assistance package for locals facing property depreciation and health concerns. The series – which included news reports, feature articles and online packages – also led to the government committing to land buybacks, blood tests and counselling for the most vulnerable in the community.”
Sponsored by WATPAC
Winner
Finalists
Judges’ comments:
“The common thread between these disparate reports was their high standard of journalism. The judges genuinely found them difficult to separate. The quality and breadth of entries across print, radio and television show investigative journalism in Queensland to be in great health and forcing lasting change. The reporting of the Queensland Nickel collapse by Sarah Elks, of The Australian, particularly stood out for its tenacity and newsworthiness. The judges were impressed by Elks’ agenda-setting pursuit of the QNI yarn. Elks’ reports constantly led the way in extremely competitive circumstances, divulging inconvenient truths behind the multimillion-dollar collapse. Elks’ series of exclusive reports, including the unmasking of “Terry Smith” as businessman Clive Palmer, were the pay-off for her determined shovel work in developing a network of contacts – from lunchrooms to boardrooms – whose information fuelled her dogged pursuit. Her work is a tremendous “how-to” for journalists young and old and deserves recognition.”
Sponsored by Bond University
Winner
Finalists
Judges’ comments:
“The judges were impressed by the diversity and overall high quality of his work. He maintains a strong voice through his elegant prose but never “takes over” the stories, allowing the subjects to be central to his storytelling. He manages to research and present highly sensitive subjects such as Story Bridge suicides (“Over Troubled Water”) and the sketching of stillborn babies (“Etched in Memory”) without clichés or allowing emotion to overtake the messages.”
Sponsored by Telstra
Winner
Finalists
Highly Commended
Judges’ comments:
“Tim Leslie’s entry – What your metadata reveals about you – took on a very complicated issue and broke it down into simple steps. By accessing the telephone, text and internet records of one person’s smart phone, Tim was able to reveal an astonishing amount of information about that individual. But, the cleverness of this entry was the multi-layered approach it took in telling the story. Beyond just showing us what all this data actually looks like and how it works, the audience was invited to interact with the data. This active and unique approach drove home how much detail of our lives can be revealed to others – a fascinating and frightening experience.”
Sponsored by The Walkley Foundation
Winner
Finalists
Judges’ comments:
“Tony Bela’s Game of Toads was a standout in this category. He used an idea so simple it did not need instructions and created a humorous and clever work of art that is both an entertaining board game and exciting online offering. The artwork appeals to both children and adults and plays beautifully on Queensland’s profound parochialism during the State of Origin series. A fun, charming, yet sophisticated idea, very well executed.”
Sponsored by Media Entertainment & Arts Alliance
Winner
Finalists
Highly Commended
Judges’ comments:
“This powerful image by Luke Marsden graphically illustrates the problem of a town under siege, where gangs of drug-affected children as young as six roam the streets of Mt Isa committing crimes and acts of violence. The viewer is struck by the age of these children and the situation in which they find themselves. We often see images of adults in this situation but it is shocking to see children as young as these being questioned by police when they should be in bed. One child is seen trying to hide a paint can which he had been sniffing from the police. It’s a timely image given the controversy surrounding youth detention centres. Luke has expertly shown understanding of the ability of his camera to capture the sombre mood of this image using only the available street light.”
Sponsored by Media Super
Winner
Finalists
Judges’ comments:
“The jailing of the 60 minutes team and Brisbane mother Sally Faulkner was one of the biggest stories of the year. This was a tough assignment in a foreign country where news crews had been faced with deportation for doing their job. Liam was also under constant threat of arrest and confiscation of his gear. It’s a job where his pre-planning and use of local knowledge paid off. Showing a mastery of his craft, Liam was able to capture all the major players at crucial moments in the last days of the saga. Using contacts and working out various scenarios before their release, he was able to shoot and even follow them through three airports back to Australia. After talking his way up to the First Class Cabin he surprised the 60 Minutes crew and took a picture they never wanted to be taken – showing their real celebration, sipping Dom Perignon. This was a telling contrast to the situation Ms Faulkner found herself where she was forced to leave her children behind with her estranged husband and the child recovery crew in jail.”
Sponsored by Media Entertainment & Arts Alliance
Winner
Finalists
Judges’ comments:
“Luke Marsden’s “Capsize” captures the moment an irresistible force meets a very movable object. Perfectly framed and focussed, this image of the Mermaid Beach surf boat crew being tossed into the sea by a churning wave is as iconic as it is frightening. Marsden has summed up in a single frame the courage and conviction needed to tackle the rising swell. The photo also captured the panic and determination on the faces of the crew.”
Sponsored by Local Government Association of Queensland
Winner
Finalists
Highly Commended
Judges’ comments:
“This was a story easily forgotten because of its remoteness from the big newsgathering centres of the state. By going back to it, Kate ensured it wasn’t. She had to win the trust of those involved in the terrible tragedy and talk to many people before crafting a beautiful narrative. She clearly worked hard to win the trust of those involved for a piece of writing which evoked deep emotions. Her feature, describing the number of lives saved and the actions of those who saved them showed the incredible community spirit of Ravenshoe which is permanently celebrated thanks to this piece of journalism.”
Sponsored by Channel Nine Brisbane
Winner
Finalists
Judges’ comments:
“A dogged determination to get the story combined with a mountain of research and a great ear for telling a story made Kate’s work the standout from a highly competitive field of entries. Daniel Morcombe’s murder was a profoundly traumatic event for Queensland and only someone able to pass the multiple tests of the highest journalistic standards, respect for the truth and empathy for those affected by his loss could do the story justice. Kate’s focus on the undercover officer whose work touched off the covert operation that led to the conviction of Daniel’s killer is a masterful telling of a crucial aspect of this awful story.”
Sponsored by Seven Network
Winner
Finalists
Judges’ comments:
“Baz McAlister’s entry highlights his ability to consistently produce insightful, witty and contextualised headlines which are both entertaining and clever. “Threat Level Hilux” neatly encapsulated a story claiming stolen Utes were being used to fund ISIS. “Ready, Jedi, Dough” illustrated the vast profits expected to made by the latest Star Wars instalment and “Liar Belle for Prosecution” summed up the massive penalties faced by cancer fraudster Belle Gibson, with an expert play on words.”
Sponsored by Queensland Police Union
Winner
Finalists
Judges’ comments:
“Elly Bradfield’s story about the scourge of ice in her beloved home town of St George was beautifully crafted, insightful and compelling. She tackled a difficult subject with sensitivity and a genuine desire to understand the issue from all angles, interviewing a former addict, a police officer, the local hospital medical superintendent, and a community worker who was also the mother of an ice user, to discover the emotional, financial and physical toll of the drug on individuals and the wider community. Elly employed a range of devices to make superb use of the medium, including music, natural sound and innovative editing. The end result was powerful, authentic and touching. This is the art of audio storytelling.”
Sponsored by Media Entertainment & Arts Alliance
Winner
Finalists
Judges’ comments:
“Isobel Roe’s report into contamination near the Oakey Army Base displayed initiative, perseverance and the ability to establish and maintain contacts in the local community. The radio reports are newsworthy, well-written and well presented. The exclusive angles were followed by other media, and the story has become a national issue. The journalist was also able to communicate a complex story within the constraints of a radio report, and include personal stories of those affected.”
Regional & Community – Print/ Text: News Report
Sponsored by Ipswich City Council
Winner
Finalists
Judges’ comments:
“The judges were highly impressed by the strong standard of work by regional journalists. All three finalists were worthy of merit and demonstrate the power of regional contacts in breaking stories of statewide significance. Grace Mason’s entry Member Exposed was a genuine exclusive with serious political ramifications. On a day a State MP was cleared of allegations of domestic violence, her article revealed a new investigation into inappropriate text messages. This was outstanding work, followed extensively by other media outlets, and with the potential to bring down the government of the day. The judges particularly commended the Gold Coast team of Andrew Potts and Paul Weston for the entry Trojan Council and recognised their extensive research and comprehensive coverage exposing issues with wider implications for regional communities.”
Sponsored by Media Entertainment & Arts Alliance
Winner
Finalists
Judges’ comments:
“In a high-quality field with a very healthy number of entries from across Queensland, Elly Bradfield’s mini-documentary “St George’s Ice Struggle” is an exceptional example of broadcast journalism. Within seconds, Elly hooks you in with her personal connection to and childhood memories of this town, and the hint of a dark underbelly about to be revealed, then by subverting her narrative from “me” and “I” to powerful use of the word “you”, she forces you to consider that this is not just a story about one town, that it could be playing out somewhere near you. Elly demonstrates lavish and complex use of sound – often just a few seconds of something (eg the bakery, the pub) to create a mental image – and a high quality grasp of radio production. Natural sound, well-chosen music, Elly’s clever storytelling and a range of voices (honest, open and compelling) are woven together seamlessly to bring the story alive, to take you into this community, to create an eye-opening, emotional and informative insight. The judges congratulate Elly Bradfield on winning the 2016 Clarion for Regional/Community Broadcast Report.”
Sponsored by Council on the Ageing (COTA)
Winner
Finalists
Judges’ comments:
“Vani Naidoo was the standout winner in this category for her well-written and moving feature articles on breast cancer, mental illness and homelessness. Vani showed great skill in dealing with these complex issues in a sensitive manner, offering a range of voices and perspectives on the topics she covered. She also showed immense talent in her writing style, crafting beautifully written pieces that were very moving for the reader. Her article on young mother Lana Rhodes and the challenges she has faced following a double mastectomy (beautifully illustrated by Mike Richards) was an extraordinary piece of journalism.”
Sponsored by Clovely Wine Estate
Winner
Finalists
Highly Commended
Judges’ comments:
“The entries were of an extremely high standard with entrants showing an acute understanding of their community to give themselves the best opportunity to capture the shot. Glen used his knowledge of the Gold Coast surf and in his own words “a large slice of luck’’ to photograph a stunning image that judges were unanimous was the clear winner. The image was well composed and he executed the shot at the right angle to enhance the light of the sun and hint of the rainbow to perfectly capture the weather event.”
Sponsored by Queensland Police Union
Winner
Finalists
Highly Commended
Judges’ comments:
“The standard of entries in this category was incredibly high and the content very diverse; however ‘Into the Zone’ was the unanimous choice for the judging panel. Mark Willacy’s return to Fukushima, five years after a tsunami swamped the local nuclear plant resulted in a standout piece of investigative journalism that stays with the viewer long after the piece concludes. Willacy and his producer Ben Hawke were given unique access to the facility and revealed for the first time that the operator of the plant is yet to pinpoint the exact location of the 600-plus tonnes of nuclear fuel that melted in the disaster. The haunting account of the disaster through the eyes of elderly locals juxtaposed with the harsh scientific evident delivered a well-written, well-researched real life horror story with significant impact.”
Sponsored by Australian Broadcasting Corporation
Winner
Finalists
Judges’ comments:
“We congratulate all the entrants this Year and are happy to see entries from regional areas. Even though the numbers were down on previous years, the standard of entries are up to the high standard we expect. Special mention must be made of one of our finalists this year. Jonathan lea who is predominately a journalist, has made the transition to being a VJ(video Journalist) The combining of two skills is a tough task and is now a growing trend in the industry. It is hoped that next year we will have a separate category for this growing sector of the media. To this year’s winner of the John Bean Award. This work demonstrates all the skills needed to tell a story with pictures: to be innovative and resourceful, while at the same time, meeting the daily demands of the turnaround required in the instant news environment. Again encouragement is given to all cinematographers to enter their work in the future.”
Sponsored by Queensland University of Technology – Creative Industries
Winner
Finalists
Judges’ comments:
“The calibre of entries in this year’s TV News Report category was exceptional. The judges feel the bar has been raised dramatically and the diversity of the work entered shows enormous depth in Queensland broadcast journalism. From breaking news events to in-depth investigations into international matters of national importance, the standard of the entries made selecting a winner extremely difficult. The winner in this category covered a significant international event but with the in-depth research and mastery of technology that lifted it beyond a breaking news report. It was informative and compelling, and showed great tenacity in the details Curtis was able to uncover.”
Sponsored by The University of Queensland
Winner
Sponsored by Griffith University
Winner
2014 Queensland Journalist of the Year
Winner
What the Judges said:
Leisa Scott’s article focused initially on the personal aspects associated with people who were preparing to die, then segued flawlessly into a broader discussion of the hugely important implications for society of the expensive struggle to keep people alive when in fact their time has come. The topic is difficult, and as a result often gets overlooked. This work, carried out over months, was self-generated. There was no PR machine, no agenda, no product to sell – just a skilful and compassionate concentration on the tragic and personal that prompted a much-needed debate about planning for a “good death”.
Most Outstanding Contribution to Journalism
Sponsored by The University of Queensland
Winner
What the Judges said:
First Female Metropolitan News Director wins Most Outstanding Contribution to Journalism.
CATHIE SCHNITZERLING
QLD Clarions awarded Cathie, or Schnitz as she is known, the prestigious award for the profound impact on young Queensland journalists she has worked with – first as a producer, then as news director of Channel Ten, Queensland (TVQ). She has helped countless young journalists build their careers, though mentoring, guidance and support.
She was well known for the backing she gave to her reporters, guided them and skilfully managed the difficult task of overseeing a first class news service with ever-diminishing resources.
Her focus was always fearless journalism, telling the stories of all Queenslanders, not just those in Brisbane, and cutting through the PR spin.
She is a role model for journalists everywhere and for women in particular, even after hanging up the Journalist title she continues to champion and mentor young Journalists. Cathie is now on the Women in Media Queensland Committee and has taken responsibility for building the mentoring programme here in Queensland.
All Media – Broadcast Interview
Sponsored by Queensland Police Union
Winner
The judges were impressed with the diversity of stories in this category and especially some regional Queensland contributions. Overall, given the strong field, the judges believed there was one outstanding entrant. His entry covered a range of strong studio interviews. This journalist completed a thorough examination of a major story, which led to legal proceedings and a CMC corruption investigation. The judges took special note of the fact several of these interviews set the news agenda for weeks ahead. In on story the Deputy Premier eventually admitted regret at his handling of the Palmer issue. The broadcast journalist showed a solid and probing line of questioning throughout. He is worthy winner.
Finalists
All Media – Business Journalism
Winner
What the Judges said:
Business stories are often dominated by numbers and statistics. Trent put a human face to job losses. He responded quickly to a breaking story and put himself outside the gates of the BP Refinery to find a retrenched worker willing to take him into their home and tell their family’s story. It resulted in a deeply personal account of the loss of a family’s belief system. Dalton got out of the office and put himself in the way of the story.
Finalists
All Media – Commentary, Analysis, Opinion & Critique
Sponsored by Three Plus Pty Ltd
Winner
What the Judges said:
The judges noted the extraordinary breadth of topic and subject matter Kylie covered. The research in her columns adds extra depth to each piece and her writing holds broad appeal.
Highly Commended
Finalists
All Media – Health and Wellness
Sponsored by Health NGO’s Queensland
Winner
What the Judges said:
The judges felt the overall quality of entries was high however there was one that clearly demonstrated how powerful story telling can impact public attitudes to health & well being. Whilst advances in genetic testing have bought great hope to those such as Elise it does however present a challenging and complex set of questions to those women carrying the gene. Juxtaposing her journey with that of her mother’s story touched many and provoked large numbers of women to explore their own risk of hereditary cancer. Elise used a range of storytelling techniques to construct a compelling narrative that clearly mapped out the medical, psychological and emotional challenges she and others face upon discovering they carry BRCA1 gene mutation. It was thoughtful, confronting and gripping.
Finalists
All Media – Indigenous Issues Reporting
Sponsored by James Cook University
Winner
What the Judges said:
The judges welcomed Aaron’s entry that highlighted a health issue of vital importance to his newspapers readership but one that would escape scrutiny in the wider mainstream media. Given the comparatively limited resources available to remote independent media, the judges recognised Aaron’s effort in maintaining a campaign highlighting his region’s lack of access to dental services and eventually forced a bureaucratic review. Aaron’s work is a strong example of successful crusading journalism on a local scale.
Finalists
All Media – Most Outstanding Journalism Student – Metropolitan Campus
Sponsored by Media Super
Winner
What the Judges said:
Jesse’s radio documentary on how mining ruined the Darling Downs town of Acland was the stand-out entry. He clearly put in a huge effort researching the story and tracking down former residents while demonstrating outstanding technical skills in crafting his report. His body of work revealed an enterprising young journalist who can spot a compelling story and make it relevant to the news consumer.
Highly Commended
Finalists
All Media – Most Outstanding Journalism Student – Regional Campus
Sponsored by Media Super
Winner
What the Judges said:
Nicole’s body of work demonstrated initiative and the ability to spot a story then deliver it on a broad range of platforms. Her broadcast work showcased good interviewing skills and her print work was well constructed.
Finalists
All Media – Multicultural Queensland Award
Sponsored by Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland
Winner
What the Judges said:
Nance Haxton’s Hope for the future showcase great use of long format journalism in reporting complex social issues. Focusing on the Logan region, the journalist gives the listeners greater insight in to the complexities, trials and tribulations of multicultural societies. The series of longer format radio stories examine in-depth, the tension and hope facing different cultures living in close proximity to each other. The series showcases a remarkable body of work and journalistic insight, and shines a piercing light into cultural stereotypes, misconceptions and socio-political rhetoric. Through the effective use of long format journalism, the journalist provides context to breaking news, effectively balancing the challenge of exclusive reports and the need to stay ahead of the story, with a pragmatic objectivity that penetrates the issues beneath the surface. Hope for the future is issue-based multicultural journalism at its best.
Highly Commended
The Judges said:
Arthur Gorrie’s Honest Dollah is a well-crafted series of stories that takes the reader on a journey. The journalist transforms a routine Good Samaritan story into something much more, rejecting preconceived notions of refugees currently flavouring contemporary discourse and replacing it with the portrayal of sincere, hardworking and honest man. Presenting him as the loneliest man in Gympie, the journalist invites the local community to rally around him. The series builds suspense as concerns for his family are raised, and engages the reader’s attention though a series of articles that provide a hyper-local focus on a human tragedy unfolding in another part of the world. Honest Dollah a great example of community building multicultural journalism.
Finalists
All Media – Rural Journalism
Sponsored by Rural Press Club
Winner
What the Judges said:
The winning entry clearly stood out for its courageous reporting.
While it was difficult to judge stories with long production lead times compared with daily news deadlines across various platforms , “Horns of a Dilemma” bravely shone a light on an issue rarely reported.
Pip Courtney’s tenacity across 20 years in trying to report on the issue paid off, fulfilling one of the key tests of journalism.
The story handled a sensitive issue tastefully, fairly and comprehensively. It was responsible reporting on a controversial issue of significant relevance that had been largely hidden away.
The judges were impressed with the high quality of entries showing the rich diversity of content and extensive reporting in this category.
In particular, the reporting on the drought across Queensland was impressive in the way it represented the emotional extent of the crisis through people – in powerful words and heart-breaking pictures.
Highly Commended
Finalists
All Media – Social Issues Reporting
Winner
What the Judges said:
Jamie Walker’s thoughtful and searingly honest magazine feature took readers into the heart of a churchman who lost faith. Pat Comben, a former Queensland Government cabinet minister, lost faith in his own church, and even himself, because of what he saw and what he became a part of while mishandling the desperate pleas for help from victims of sexual and physical abuse by church employees. Tommy Campion, one of Queensland’s most outstanding newspaper photographers, was one of those victims. In telling their story, Jamie displayed compassion, integrity, and an outstanding writing style that captivated readers.
Finalists
All Media – Sports Journalism
Sponsored by Lion
Winner
What the Judges said:
The Australian obsession with sport usually confines itself to what happens on the sporting field. However, in “The Battle for Brisbane”’ Andrew Hamilton has gone much further. This true-life sporting drama examines all that underpins an iconic football brand and makes those memorable game days possible. From board room tussles to property development disputes, Hamilton recaptures the hallmark tensions that characterised memorable Lions victories in this, a fight for the club’s survival.
Finalists
All Media – New Journalist of the Year
Sponsored by Qld Parliamentary Media Gallery
Winner
What the Judges said:
Emma went to impressive lengths to ensure a refugee could tell his heartbreaking struggle to start a new life. She spoke with three translators, a lawyer and other sources to deliver compelling stories that needed to be told. Her persistence took readers behind the explosive headlines from the Royal Commission into sex abuse and produced an engaging four-page read that was hard to put down.
Finalists
All Media – Investigative Journalism
Winner
What the Judges said:
This investigation showed the Director-General of Premier’s Department corporate links and forced admissions that he was aware of the Obeid family ties with Australian Water Holdings and the company’s push into Queensland. McKenna stayed with the story despite The Australian newspaper being threatened twice with lawsuits. The stories resulted in the Director-General divesting his business interests. McKenna showed dogged determination in the face of adversity.
Finalists
Online – Online Journalism
Sponsored by University of Sunshine Coast
Winner
What the Judges said:
This was an incredibly strong category with many notable entries showcasing a broad range of online journalism techniques which made it difficult to judge. The Brisbane Times team entry demonstrates excellent use of online immediacy to deliver rolling news coverage to the audience. The team incorporates multimedia well and shows strong audience engagement through material sourced from the audience and on the ground reporters.
Finalists
Photography – News Photograph
Winner
What the Judges said:
This was a stand-out entry. Mark captured the key moment of grief to produce a powerful image, in difficult and highly sensitive circumstances.
Finalists
Photography – Photographic Essay
Winner
What the Judges said:
Lisa’s story telling drags to the heart of poverty. The images allow you to become a first-hand observer with no intervention.
Finalists
Photography – Sports Photography
Winner
What the Judges said:
Jono captured the moment when Australia believed it could re-take the Ashes. Mitch was up, Australia was up, and Jono framed it beautifully.
Finalists
Print/Online – Feature Article
Sponsored by Local Government Association of Queensland
Winner
What the Judges said:
The judges found this to be a thought-provoking foray into a subject that is not mainstream news nor often discussed publicly but one all families and medical practitioners grapple with. The intimacy of one person’s experience was balanced with sound, candid and non-sensational interviews with professionals involved in end of life care and medical decisions surrounding serious illness. The panel appreciated her initiative, research and selection of five interview subjects along with the trust those sources placed in her integrity and skill as a writer. The result was a compelling article.
Finalists
Print/Online – News Report
Sponsored by Chanel Nine Brisbane
Winner
What the Judges said:
There was quite a spread of news treatments in this category, making the decision even harder than normal. A number of entries were worthy of awards in their own right, touching as they did on issues of significance to the community at large, and in some cases using individual stories to tease out important aspects that have eluded general scrutiny. However the judges felt “Watchdog Controversy”, by Sarah Vogler and group, was an excellent example of what journalism can do exceptionally well when an organisation throws its resources – including its highly skilled people – into covering a confused, confusing, fast-breaking and historic news event.
Finalists
Print /Online – Best Three Headings
Sponsored by Seven Network Brisbane
Winner
What the Judges said:
This is always a well-contested section and many entries this year were of a high calibre. In a work environment that places increasing demands and volume on subs, it was heartening that the work entered this year demonstrated freshness and originality. The judges felt they were presented with a field of clever, relevant headlines. Ken Robinson’s entry featured clever headlines in a tight space which were supported by equally clever subheadings. Lateral thinking was particularly evident in ‘Game of Thrones’ and ‘Cent a Metre,’ which each demonstrated wit and relevance, while still being easily understood.
Finalists
Radio – Current Affairs, Feature Documentary or Special
Sponsored by Griffith University
Winner
What the Judges said:
This remarkable story about a woman who survived having her throat cut when she was a young girl by her psychotic mother attempting to offer her up as a human sacrifice was exceptionally well told. We hear in a series of uninterrupted accounts a sometimes chilling and revealing description of exactly what happened from the victim, from her father and from one of the doctors in Dalby who saved her life. Amanda Gearing won the trust and confidence of Susannah and her father. And she managed to track down the reluctant, now retired, surgeon to elicit a vivid account of how they kept her alive. The item explores what Amanda calls “one of the last taboos – mothers with serious mental illnesses who are violent towards their children”. What helped make this such an outstanding documentary is the way the story is woven together utilising a range of excellent radio production techniques. It makes absolutely compelling listening. As Amanda says the “result is an intimate portrait that allows Susannah’s strength of character to shine through” and that it also reveals “for possibly the first time, a person speaking publicly about being an intended child sacrifice.”
Finalists
Radio – News Report
Winner
What the Judges said:
The entries in this category covered major news stories with applicants showing a good variety in the way that they told their stories considering they are often facing he pressures of hourly deadlines. The use of up sound ups and natural sound added to the medium and made the radio stories far more compelling. In deciding on a winner, the judges believed the entrant stood out as she managed a great ‘get’ to secure an exclusive interview with a controversial politician. The entrant also showed in her body of work good ‘breaking news’ live into the morning show regarding the expulsion recommendation. The radio journalist stayed with the story across the day with solid analysis. She also showed an excellent breaking news report on his resignation, getting to air within seconds in the afternoon show. The winner showed a very impressive use of the medium.
Finalists
Regional & Community – Print/ Online News Report
Sponsored by Ipswich City Council
Winner
What the Judges said:
There were a high quality range of entries, which shows that regional news reporting is alive and well. There’s an extraordinary amount of work by regional journalists conducting campaigns on behalf of their communities. Owen’s comprehensive reports chased down every lead. This was a local, state and international story, which resulted in a coronial inquest. The story ticked all the boxes – accuracy, storytelling, newsworthiness, ethics, research and impact as a regional journo.
Highly Commended
The Judges said:
Emma’s stories were beautifully written. Sensitive and searing accounts of abuse in institutions.
Finalists
Regional & Community – Broadcast Report
Winner
What the Judges said:
The judges weighed up newsworthiness, quality of research, public impact and the creative use of the medium. Allyson Horn presented a body of work, which demonstrated consistent quality in reporting emerging regional issues. Her reports on child abuse, chroming, agricultural prices and insurance cover after natural disasters are also relevant to a national audience. The reports showed Allyson’s effectiveness in searching out stories in her local community and the stories have impacted on government policy.
Finalists
Regional & Community – Feature Article or Opinion
Sponsored by Council on the Ageing (COTA)
Winner
What the Judges said:
In a very strong field of entries, Stephanie Kay’s feature was a stand-out piece of writing. Diagnosed with bowel cancer at just 21, Stephanie took the brave step of sharing her experience in a story that was emotive, honest and compelling. It was able to tell the story from an insider’s perspective but was also meticulous in its research of the disease.
Finalists
Regional & Community – News Photograph
Sponsored by Australian Broadcasting Corporation
Winner
What the Judges said:
Evan has frozen a moment of distress when the viewer can see and feel the empathy between the three women in the photograph. It is a hard news image that showed a degree of warmth that is rarely seen.
Finalists
Television – Current Affairs, Feature Documentary
Sponsored by Queensland Police Union
Winner
What the Judges said:
The judges felt the overall quality of entries was high however there was one that clearly demonstrated how powerful story telling can impact public attitudes to health & wellbeing. Whilst advances in genetic testing have bought great hope to those such as Elise it does however present a challenging and complex set of questions to those women carrying the gene. Juxtaposing her journey with that of her mother’s story touched many and provoked large numbers of women to explore their own risk of hereditary cancer. Elise used a range of storytelling techniques to construct a compelling narrative that clearly mapped out the medical, psychological and emotional challenges she and others face upon discovering they carry BRCA1 gene mutation. It was thoughtful, confronting and gripping.
Finalists
Television – The John Bean Award for News and Current Affairs Camerawork
Sponsored by Australian Broadcasting Corporation
Winner
What the Judges said:
As a single person crew Deon has achieved a production that takes the story to a more interesting and polished level. His shot selection was rich and diverse, while keeping the story in the foremost.
Highly Commended
Television News Report
Winner
What the Judges said:
This story was exclusive in the true essence of the word. Carly Waters and Paula Doneman used their extensive contact base to provide viewers with a compelling tale – on a story, which was being covered extensively by all forms or media. Strong, well-researched vision provided a riveting insight into a police investigation which landed the arrest of a man many people wanted to know more about. Journalistic tenacity gave this report an edge representative of all components of great story-telling. In two parts, it told of the investigation, and later about the background of a man, the community had come to despise. It was concise and powerful, yet thorough. Over a long period of research time the entrants demonstrated fine use of their craft, delivering exclusive vision and untold information in a sensitive and compassionate manner. In a strong category, judges felt this entry was an example of overall journalistic excellence.
Finalists
Queensland Journalist of the Year
Sponsor: Media Entertainment & Arts Alliance
Winner: Mark Solomons and Kelmeny Fraser – The Courier-Mail, Driscoll Story
The judges said…
The award for Journalist of the Year goes this year, unusually, to two journalists – two reporters who between them produced a stunning and significant series of reports. The work they did brought to light contemporary corruption, and did so in a way reminiscent of clever barristers in court – never asking questions to which they did not already know the answers. Given the immediacy and constant pressure of today’s 24-hour news cycle, where the only real deadline is “right now”, they must have been tempted to splash with a comprehensive story telling all they knew. But by keeping their powder dry and using it sparingly they effectively lured the subject into making claims they soon disproved. Their work will be viewed by politicians of all stripes as a warning that the fourth estate is still vital – and watching. The joint winners of the Clarions 2013 Journalist of the Year award are Mark Solomons and Kelmeny Fraser
Most Outstanding Contribution to Journalism
Sponsor: University of Queensland
Winner: Paul Reed, Nine Newtork
The judges said…
This award not only recognises lifetime achievement but skill, dedication and, often, sheer determination. This year’s winner recently retired from active journalism but his legacy will live on. That’s because for the past 44 years, he has been a true believer. A devotee of a school of journalism that will never go out of fashion – quite simply to chase, question and then chase some more. It was this thirst for news that drove his career. It also shaped nightly bulletins, and the careers of hundreds of young reporters, producers and interns who had the fortune of being able to absorb his advice.
Major Awards – Investigative Journalism
Sponsor: University of Queensland
Winner: Mark Solomons and Kelmeny Fraser – The Courier-Mail, Driscoll Story
Finalists:
Angie Asimus – Seven News Brisbane, AFP Whistleblower
Michael McKenna and Amanda Gearing – The Australian, Two Boys, Two Countries, One Story
The judges said…
The reporting was outstanding in a year of remarkable investigative journalism. The reports were concise, well written, brilliantly sourced and researched. The exposure of Scott Driscoll, the star LNP candidate, and his business dealings and conflicts of interest, humiliated the Premier and Government. It was a high profile scalp with long lasting implications for Queensland politics and the Parliament. The stories were written superbly, with clarity and sophistication, giving readers a perfect view of a scandal that otherwise would have gone unexposed.
Major Awards – New Journalist of the Year
Sponsor: Queensland Parliamentary Media Gallery.
Winner: Elise Worthington – ABC TV News, ABC Radio & ABC Online, Multi-Platform Reporting
Finalists:
Caitlyn Gribbin – ABC Radio PM, Body of Work
Jason Tin – The Courier-Mail, Body of Work
The judges said…
There was an exceptionally high of work across the board. The standard was far beyond what you’d expect for journalists of their experience. However, Elise Worthington’s body of work and the versatility she showed in reporting across the platforms impressed the judging panel.
All Media – Broadcast Interview
Sponsor: Queensland Police Union
Winner: Caitlyn Gribbin – ABC Radio The World Today, Miners Speak Out About Drug Culture
Finalist:
Matt Wordsworth – ABC TV 7.30 Qld, Budget Night
The judges said…
Caitlyn went that extra mile exploring a taboo issue with strong talents and focused questions. A polished package overall.
All Media – Business Journalism
Sponsor: Canegrowers
Winner: Hedley Thomas – The Australian, Palmer Inc
Finalists:
John McCarthy – The Courier-Mail, Gas Rush
Liam Walsh – The Courier-Mail, Wickham’s Hole: Deeper and Deeper
The judges said…
A well timed series of articles based around a strong exclusive about the potential loss of up to 1000 jobs. Hedley Thomas lifted the corporate veil on a man who wants to be prime minister.
All Media – Commentary, Analysis, Opinion & Critique
Sponsor: Three Plus
Winner: Robert MacDonald – The Courier-Mail, Yes Minister…but what are you really up to?
Finalists:
Kylie Lang – The Sunday Mail, Real Issues for Real Queenslanders
Natalie Bochenski – Brisbane Times, Critical Hits
The judges said…
Robert Macdonald provided fresh and timely insight into issues that were difficult and politically sensitive. He argued points with well-reasoned analysis in an easy-to-understand critique.
All Media – Health and Wellness
Sponsor: Health NGOs Queensland
Winner: Jamie Walker – The Weekend Australian Magazine, What Lurks Within
Finalists:
Kathryn Cruise, Eva Milic, Sophie Walsh and Joel Dry – Nine News 6pm, Body of Work
Sean Parnell – The Australian, The Black Dog Index
The judges said…
Jamie Walker’s entry was the unanimous standout. His long-form investigations into two insidious diseases – the Hendra virus and the Daintree/Bairnsdale ulcer – read like good detective stories. They were meticulously researched and carefully structured, as Walker turned what could have become dry science features into captivating page-turners. By pitting resolute survivors and dedicated researchers against the villainous and often unknowable infections, he highlighted the importance of scientific endeavour without sacrificing the humanity of those affected along the way. While the judges were impressed with the overall quality of entrants, Walker’s ability to shed light on a relatively unknown disease (Daintree/Bairnsdale ulcer) and give a new perspective on a much-discussed one (Hendra virus), meant he best fulfilled the journalist’s role to inform and educate.
All Media – Indigenous Issues Reporting
Sponsor: BHP Billiton
Winner: Michael McKenna – The Weekend Australian, Aboriginal Stockmen Ride Again
Finalists:
Stefan Armbruster – SBS Television, Cruel Rules in Traditional Hunting Stoush
Trent Dalton – The Weekend Australian Magazine, Written In Stone
The judges said…
There was a pleasingly large number of entries in this category, which shows that reporting of indigenous issues is no longer just a “specialist” field, and is now seen as an integral part of everyday reporting. Tthere were some excellent stand-out pieces this year – and that made choosing a winner quite hard. In the end, the judges felt that Michael McKenna’s Back In The Saddle was a worthy recipient of the award, ahead of Trent Dalton’s Written in Stone and Stefan Armbruster’s body of work on the round.
Most Outstanding Journalism Student – Metropolitan
Sponsor: Department of the Premier and Cabinet
Winner: Carl Smith – Unversity of Queensland, Body of Work
Finalists:
Ali Rae – University of Queensland, Body of Work
Patrick Begley – J School Journalism College, Selected health features
The judges said…
Carl’s stories were impressive. His work was ground breaking, his execution was playful and technically strong: he went the extra step to record interviews from the tops of buildings and his research was exemplary. The other entrants showed considerable promise.
Most Outstanding Journalism Student – Regional
Sponsor: Department of the Premier and Cabinet
Winner: Ebony Battersby – James Cook University Townsville, Cannabis Legislation in Queensland
Finalist:
Dominique Clarke – James Cook University Townsville, A Focus on the Queensland Mining Sector in Regional Queensland
The judges said…
Ebony’s story laid out the issues well, had a good mix of sources and used statistics well. Fellow finalist Dominique Clarke’s portfolio addressed a wide range of issues in the mining sector which also impressed the judges.
All Media – Multicultural Queensland Award
Sponsor: Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland
Winner: Mike Bruce – U on Sunday Magazine, The Sunday Mail, Saba Abraham
Finalists:
John Andersen – Townsville Bulletin, Cultural Diversity in North Queensland
Stefan Armbruster – SBS Radio, Body of Work
The judges said…
This category brought widely divergent choices to the table, because the standard was so high. In fact almost all the submissions were considered finalist material by one judge or another. Judges asked that Matt Wordsworth’s South Sea Islanders be given a special mention, along with the finalists – who were Stefan Armbruster for his body of work for SBS (fine reporting, under the pressure of daily deadlines), and John Anderson whose Cultural Diversity in North Queensland shows that such diversity isn’t restricted to the latte-sipping inner suburbs.
But the winner, the judges felt, was Mike Bruce with his beautifully written piece on Saba Abraham, outlining hardship, suffering, strength, and a joining of hands as refugees adopt the best of the Aussie “fair-go hard-yakka” ethos.
All Media – Excellence in Rural Journalism
Sponsor: Rural Press Club
Winner: Trent Dalton – The Weekend Australian Magazine, The Long Goodbye
Finalists:
Ian Townsend – ABC Radio National, The Dogs that Ate A Sheep Industry
Jamie Walker – The Weekend Australian, Beef Industry Crisis
The judges said…
Heartache is an emotion which the hardy, resilient people of the Australian bush face on a daily basis, yet The Long Goodbye wasn’t about their struggles with falling commodity prices, flooded marks or inhospitable climate conditions. It showed the turmoil felt by rural parents who send their children to boarding school. While it was a novel angle for articles in this section, the judges felt it would have engaged its mainly urban readership, highlighting an issue faced annually by parents of 17,000 school students. The skilful crafting exhibited by all three finalists was impressive.
All Media – Social Issues Reporting
Sponsor: Media Entertainmnet & Arts Alliance
Winner:Michael McKenna and Amanda Gearing – The Australian, Two Boys, Two Countries, One Story
Finalist:Trent Dalton – The Weekend Australian Magazine, The Story of Nicole
Highly Commended: Michael Madigan, Renee Viellaris and Alison Sandy – The Courier-Mail, Children of the State
The judges said…
This was a hotly contested category with 40 entries of outstanding quality tackling a wide range of important social issues. Selecting a winner was extremely difficult and the judges took into consideration the degree of difficulty in getting the story, the quality of the work, the social importance of the issue raised and the outcomes achieved by raising the matter in the public domain. The issue of child abuse dominated the entries as it did the news agenda this past year and all three finalists helped lift the silence on this insidious offence. But the work by Michael McKenna and Amanda Gearing to investigate and report the serial abuse of children by a senior Anglican clergyman – in two countries – narrowly earned them this year’s award.
All Media – Sports Journalism
Sponsor: Lion
Winner: Todd Balym – The Sunday Mail, Australia’s Olympic swimming scandal
Finalists:
Caitlin Shea and Roger Carter – ABC TV Australian Story, Know Thy Enemy
Peter Badel and Chris Garry – The Sunday Telegraph, Depression in Australian sport
The judges said…
The reports by Todd Balym were by far the most impressive and still having ramifications for Australian swimming. They showed concise, accurate and agenda-setting reporting.
Artwork – Cartoon, Illustration or Graphic
Sponsor: Media Super
Winner: Sharni Hargrave – Nine News 6pm, Body of Work
Finalist: Jonathan Bentley – The Courier-Mail, The State Circus
The judges said…
Sharni Hargrave was the clear winner. Her detailed, clever, well–visualised artwork added tremendous value to the television stories being told. Her use of graphics helped the viewer understand what was being said by reporters and gave a sense of drama and location. The judges were disappointed with the number of entries in this category and encourage all artists to enter next year.
Online Journalism
Sponsor: University of the Sunshine Coast
Winner: Kate Kyriacou – www.couriermail.com.au, The Murder of Allison Baden-Clay
Finalists:
Kathy McLeish – ABC Online, Afghanistan: Life on the Frontline
Kieran Ricketts – ABC News Digital, Taken Too Soon: Hardy Family Revisit Bali Nightmare
The judges said…
Kate Kyriacou’s work was an excellent demonstration of how online media could bring court proceedings to life in a way that was out of reach of other media. Her report set a benchmark, going far beyond the rudimentary tweeting from court that had set the standard thus far. She was required to write updates for her online outlet throughout the day, sometimes having almost to write and takes notes at the same time, to tweet as and when possible, and to write full-length, conventional news reports for her print outlet. Kyriacou’s juggling act produced compelling court reports in far more depth than any previously possible in any medium in Australia, where TV and radio broadcasters are barred from courtrooms. We can look forward to many more such reports as technology advances, but Kyriacou’s will long remain a standard bearer for the industry.
Photography: News Photography
Sponsor: Seven Network (Brisbane)
Winner: Tim Marsden – The Courier-Mail, Baden-Clay Arrest
Finalists:
Annette Dew – The Courier-Mail, Chainsaw Kev
Mark Calleja – The Courier-Mail, A Marked Man
The judges said…
Tim Marsden reached into a split second to show the story as a police car hurried into the Brisbane Watchhouse. In moments likes these a news photographer can live or die in the blink of an eye. The picture he had everything a picture editor could hope for, the alleged murderer hand-cuffed at the height of interest as this major story unfolded. Marsden told of checking and double checking his camera settings “A very nerve-wracking experience” in the hours he waited at the Watchhouse for his chance and he “Got it” – the only still of Baden-Clay handcuffed.
Photography: Photographic Essay
Sponsor: The Walkley Foundation
Winner: Lisa Clarke – ABC Open, The Bloody Truth About Pig Dogging
Finalists:
Alistair Brightman – Fraser Coast Chronicle, Urangan Pier
Mark Calleja – The Courier-Mail, Bundaberg Floods
The judges said…
Lisa Clarke showed great storytelling ability when documenting her “pig dogging” story. The pictures paint powerful images inside a practice that most people hold strong opinions about. Lisa showed professionalism by investing the time to get to know her subject and the results showed from images all shot on the final morning. She was able to convey a rare insight into a reality of rural life in Central Queensland. She said her essay sparked great debate across animal rights groups, environmentalists and pig doggers alike
Photography: Sports Photography
Sponsor: Nikon
Winner: Valerie Horton – Fraser Coast Chronicle, Football in Spite of Rain
Finalists:
Chris Hyde – Denver Post Newspaper, The Aussies
Evan Morgan – Townsville Bulletin, Eating Dirt
The judges said…
Valerie Horton turned a football photo into an iconic image of struggle against the elements as players confronted each other in a regional rugby league match. As Valerie said, “A season of covering the games in gumboots meant it was business as usual for this Saturday night game. Timing is everything. To capture an arresting moment in sport is a thrill that I will never tire of.”
Print/Online – Feature Article
Sponsor: Local Government Association of Queensland
Winner: Jamie Walker – The Weekend Australian Magazine, What Lurks Within
Finalists:
Michael McKenna and Amanda Gearing – The Australian, Church’s Wall of Silence
Mike Bruce – U on Sunday Magazine, The Sunday Mail, Grange Bowls Club
Trent Dalton – The Weekend Australian Magazine, The Cruel Sea
The judges said…
Jamie Walker presented a challenging and important topic in an engaging manner. The article displayed thorough technical and historic research on a topic that’s continuing to baffle science. The writing holds the reader’s attention while conveying complicated subject matter about potentially lethal conditions. Jamie Walker showed sensitivity and persistence in conveying quite a number of people to talk publicly about their traumatic and private ordeals.
Print/Online – News Report
Sponsor: Nine News
Winner: Mark Solomons and Kelmeny Fraser – The Courier-Mail, Driscoll Story
Finalists:
Michael McKenna – The Weekend Australian, Racing Queensland
Steven Wardill – The Courier-Mail, The Flegg Tapes
The judges said…
There was an extraordinarily high quality of entries, with many focussed on the scrutiny of government. The aftermath of some of the reports rocked the Newman government in its first year and showed the strength of strong media engagement as the fourth estate. The winning entries by Mark Solomons and Kelmeny Fraser demonstrated tenacity, exceptional research, persistence and insight. They displayed the essence of journalism in a gripping series of reports that raised serious questions about Scott Driscoll that led to his resignation from the LNP.
Print/Online – Three Headings
Sponsor: The Walkley Foundation
Winner: Phil Stafford – Qweekend Magazine, Nobody Knows the Rubble I’ve Seen, Suspended Admiration, A Way with the Pixels
Finalists:
Baz McAlister – The Sunday Mail, Voice Star’s Ex Factor, Thunderbolt for Lightfoot, Rank Stripped? It’s Affair Cop
Ben Vernon – Townsville Bulletin, Elec-tickerty, Sweet ‘n’ Sour Port, Grand Theft Shorto
The judges said…
At a time when the skills and talent of headline writers and subeditors are under substantial pressure from changes in the industry, the entries in this section were competitive and pleasingly strong. The judges, though particularly mindful of the time constraints presently placed on headline writers, focussed on how well all three headlines embraced the substance of the stories over which they were written. Though many were outstanding, Phil Stafford’s were consistently so. Nobody knows the rubble I’ve seen caught the spirit of Trent Dalton’s profile of infamous Queensland demolition man George Deen, and did it with panache and humour. Suspended admiration made the most of a remarkable photograph by David Kelly while summarising a profile of Australia’s synchronised swimming team. A way with the pixels was a clever introduction to Mike Coleman’s piece on the fast-changing world of the internet … and making money.
Radio – Current Affairs, Documentary or Feature
Sponsor: Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance
Winner: Annie Guest – ABC Radio National Health Report, Futile Medicine
Finalists:
Alex Mann – ABC Radio Triple J Hack, A 17-Year-Old Problem
Ian Townsend – ABC Radio National Background Briefing, Toxic Mine Water
Nance Haxton – ABC Radio PM, Gay Surrogacy
The judges said…
In this thoughtful and deeply researched investigation, Annie Guest tackled some of the most difficult questions for doctors, terminally ill patients and their loved ones. At what point does medicine and care cross over into futility? Have we, as a society, properly weighed the importance of quality of life, and have we been overly influenced by new treatments, and breakthroughs in drugs and science, which maintain a life of futility? With delicate balance, care and sensitivity, Annie observes and interviews medical specialists, carers, family members and dying patients. Annie combines the excellent content with strong technical skills to deliver a feature that is compelling, highly informative and thought provoking.
Radio – News Report
Sponsor: The Walkley Foundation
Winner: Amelia Birnie – 4BC News, Daniel Morcombe Committal Hearing and Funeral
Finalist: Frances Adcock – ABC Radio News, Bundaberg Floods
The judges said…
Complex, comprehensive and sensitive. An incredible effort and a standout in this category.
Regional and Community – Broadcast Report
Sponsor: Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance
Joint winners:
Caitlyn Gribbin – ABC Radio The World Today, Miners Speak Out About Drug Culture
Jessica Millward – WIN News Sunshine Coast, Italian Father
Finalist: Jennifer Nichols and Quinn Steer – 7 Local News, Bruce Highway Report
Highly Commended: Melinda Howells – ABC TV News, Bargara Tornado and Bundaberg Floods
The judges said…
The joint winners of this award could not be separated as both had significant merit delivering excellent content from the regions. Caitlyn Gribbin provided a compelling account of drug abuse in mining camps, raising awareness of this little-reported issue. Jessica Millward doggedly over weeks pursued a source and succeeded against 60 Minutes and other high profile media to record a one-on-one interview with the father of the kidnapped children, giving her a world exclusive. Runner-up Melinda Howells showed grit bring the story of the Bundaberg floods to audiences before others using her I-phone and a family member to shoot the images as her cameraman was 400km away. The entries were of an exceptionally high standard across the board including a number of team entries but the individual entries mentioned were standouts.
Regional and Community – Feature Article or Opinion
Sponsor: Media Super
Winner: Vani Naidoo – Sunshine Coast Daily, Why Asylum Seekers Risk Everything
Finalists:
Daniel Strudwick – The Weekend Post, The S Word
John Andersen – Townsville Bulletin, Drought in North Queensland
The judges said…
Vani’s deeply powerful work humanises the desperation of asylum-seekers. Her clear and concise construction draws the readers in, telling a story without resorting to emotive language. Her piece was a year ahead of its time with the larger publications only just exploring the personal stories of refugees. This work would sit comfortably in any major publication.
Regional and Community – News Photograph
Sponsor: ABC
Winner: Allan Reinikka – The Morning Bulletin, Flood Rescue
Finalists:
Claudia Baxter – The Queensland Times, Thorn Street Fire
Marc McCormack – The Cairns Post, Dirty Deeds
The judges said…
Allan’s news pictures were a stand out example of the craft of the news photographer as he captured the raw emotion and courage of emergency personnel as they performed a swift water rescue of a Rockhampton teenager during the second wettest day on record. Allan said, “I followed the frantic voices on the police scanner. The photos were taken as I raced and stumbled along the wet banks littered with fallen tree branches as one of the swift water rescuers was dragged along in the water and the rain continued to pelt us all.”
Regional and Community – News Report Print/Online
Sponsor: Ipswich City Council
Winner:Kathleen Skene – Townsville Bulletin, Breach of Duty
Finalists:
Ava Benny-Morrison – Mackay Daily Mercury, Hospital Hostages
Stephanie Bedo – Gold Coast Bulletin, Sick of Waiting
The judges said…
Kathleen penetrated the army’s cover-up culture to expose how the shocking neglect by a senior officer allowed a rapist not only to walk free, but to attack again. Her report shone light on the culture of secrecy that has traditionally governed ADF responses to abuse claims. It was an important contribution to a significant national issue.
Television – Current Affairs, Documentary or Feature
Sponsor: Queensland Police Union
Winner: Annie Guest – ABC 7.30 Queensland, Futile Medicine
Finalists: Kent Gordon, Roger Carter and Kirstin Murray – ABC 1, The Men Who Fell to Earth
The judges said…
This was a difficult topic choice, but Annie Guests’ compassionate storytelling produced an informative and emotive piece. Well sourced talent who were able to tell the story in their own words were complemented by a thought-provoking script. This story ticked all the boxes for this category. This was genuinely moving television.
Television – News Report
Sponsor: QUT Creative Industries
Winner: Nine News Team – Channel Nine Breaking News Coverage, Queen Street Mall Gunman
Finalists:
Alyshia Gates, Phil Willmington, Shane Doherty and Brendan Hockings – Nine News 6pm, Baden-Clay Arrest
Davina Smith and Brendan Hockings – Nine News 6pm, Flood Tapes
The judges said…
A most impressive standard of entries across a variety of stories. Even determining the finalists was a difficult task, let alone selecting the winner. In the end, the judges went back to the criteria and determined the Nine Network’s Queen St Mall Gunman the best for its newsworthiness, courage, impact and incisiveness. With breaking coverage, Nine News provided comprehensive, informative detail of a gunman on the loose. Its stories and live crosses were well produced, showed spectacular pictures, and covered all angles. It was TV news at its best.
The John Bean Memorial Award for Television Camera Work
Sponsor: ABC
Winner: Danny Burton, Craig Dyer and Michael Lloyd– Seven News Brisbane, Inside SERT
Finalists:
Craig Berkman – ABC TV Landline, Hook, Line and Sinking
Howie Bennett – Nine News 6pm, Afghanistan
The judges said…
Danny and the team brought the story alive with great use of point of view cameras (Go Pro) iwith 16 of these tiny cameras taking the viewer on a thrill ride inside the Qld Police Special Emergency Response Team (SERT), the men who respond when the risk of loss of life is too high for other police officers to be involved. The story had to be shot under very restrictive conditions. – Seven News had to maintain the anonymity of officers and not reveal security details. In the best tradition of visual story telling cameramen Danny Burton and Michael Lloyd and Seven Brisbane’s head of news operations Craig Dyer used innovative techniques to work under difficult circumstances and obtain the footage necessary to present an informed story.
Queensland Journalist of the Year
Sponsor: Queensland Newspapers
Winner: Hedley Thomas
The judges said…
There were a number of entries this year that were excellent within their genres, but Hedley Thomas’s entry transcended its genre. His work – the work of one journalist – exposed a huge set of flaws in an expensive judicial inquiry crowded with lawyers, bureaucrats, politicians and engineers that took many months and that was set to bring down a useless, error-laden report. The fallout from Hedley’s excellent work is continuing, and set to do so for years. Society is the better for it.
Most Outstanding Contribution to Journalism
Sponsor: University of Queensland
Winner: Steve O’Ferrall
The judges said…
The judges said Steve has had a stellar career, from camera operator to reporter to editor to war correspondent to chief of staff. Along the way he not only helped many aspiring camera operators and journalists, he inspired them to chase their dreams and to seek to be the best they could be. Many, as a result, have headed the lists of top people in their fields. As an indication of his standing in the industry, Steve was praised by news people from competing networks. A camera operator from another channel said: “There’s so many cameramen running around Australia now that are brilliant at what they do because of what Steven taught them.” A news presenter from yet another channel said Steve had mentored countless camera operators and journalists, and contributed hugely to the Australian news industry, adding: “Not only has he taught a new generation of news gatherers, he’s done so with kindness and consideration.” The judges believe he is a more than worthy recipient of the award. Congratulations Steve and thank you for what you have brought to the Queensland media industry.
Major Awards – Investigative Journalism
Sponsor: Griffith University
Winner: Hedley Thomas – The Australian – “Flood Cover-Up
Finalists:
Judges Comment:
This was a powerful investigation into the operation of the state’s most crucial, and most dangerous, piece of public infrastructure during the 2011 floods. Hedley Thomas’ series led directly to the rescheduling of Queensland and local government elections. It prompted the flood inquiry to delay its final report and to hold additional hearings into the operation of Wivenhoe Dam. Tellingly it went on to find that Wivenhoe Dam was operated in breach of the manual for nearly two days. The CMC is investigating whether three flood engineers committed crimes, or official misconduct, over their preparation of documents and testimony given to the inquiry. The final report of the Queensland Floods Inquiry said “There is, it is obvious, plenty of scope for argument about whether adherence to the manual strategies would have made a difference to the way in which the flood engineers actually operated the dam….. but again, the possibility exists of at least some improvement in the flooding outcome for Brisbane and Ipswich
Major Awards – Young Journalist of the Year
Sponsor: Queensland Parliamentary Media Gallery.
Winner: Miranda Grant – ABC Open – “Aftermath: stories of diaster, resilience and recovery
Finalists:
The judges said…
The judges felt that, among the cross-section of entries from metropolitan and regional media, Miranda Grant was a standout. Her video stories for ABC Open on the recovery journey of Grantham flood victims were both engaging and exceptionally crafted. A progressive young journalist, Miranda combined skilful camerawork, editing and scripting to produce an insightful series that truly captured the essence of a community trying to move forward.
All Media – Broadcast Interview
Sponsor: Queensland Police Union
Winner: Bruce Atkinson – ABC Radio – “Western Queensland Floods”
Finalists:
The judges said…
Bruce Atkinson’s series of interviews for the national broadcaster showed the value, quite literally, of going the extra mile. When the rest of the media had moved on, Bruce persuaded authorities to allow him to travel a potentially perilous road that was closed to the public so he could bring the plight of residents of flood-bound Miles and Chinchilla to a wider audience. As the only outside journalist in the isolated towns, his interviews with the otherwise forgotten people – played on radio, television and online – sparked national interest in lending a helping hand to communities hit by hard times. Bruce’s subtle interviewing technique of people under tremendous stress allowed him to elicit some heartbreaking tales from his subjects, without sensationalism.
All Media – Business Journalism
Sponsor: Canegrowers
Winner: Matthew Cranston – Australian Financial Review – “Foreign Investment”
Finalists:
The judges said…
This is an important and timely investigation of foreign ownership of Australian agricultural land. Matthew Cranston’s stories and analysis document current and prospective foreign investment.
All Media – Commentary, Analysis, Opinion & Critique
Sponsor: Three Plus
Winner: Paul Syvret– The Courier-Mail – “Tuesday View”
Finalists:
The judges said…
Paul’s work is notable by the breadth of issues he covers and the wit he uses to convey what he wants to say. His body of work shows he grasps state and national issues, and uses words cleverly to provoke, educate and inform his readers. His win was a unanimous decision by the judges.
All Media – Health and Wellness
Sponsor: Health NGO’s Queensland
Winner: Ian Townsend – ABC – “Lead Posisoning: a Silent Epidemic” and “Water Bugs”
Finalists:
The judges said…
Ian provided a forensic analysis of two very important public health issues which could easily have been forgotten or overlooked. The judges were particularly impressed with the amount of detail in each piece, which fully explored two complex issues with far-reaching public health implications.
All Media – Indigenous Issues Reporting
Sponsor: Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance
Winner: Stefan Armbruster – SBS – body of work
Finalists:
The judges said…
Stefan’s work featured a broad spectrum of reports with a couple of standout pieces. Judges were especially impressed with the poignant report into the removal of indigenous people from HopeVale to Woorabinda, feeling it was a fine example of documentary form of storytelling.
Most Outstanding Journalism Student – Metropolitan
Sponsor: Department of the Premier and Cabinet
Winner: Carl Smith – University of Queensland/ ABC – “Humans, Robots and the Future
Finalists:
Highly Commended: Alexander Tamayo – University of Queensland – Hitting a full stop: The protests of the ‘Truth Truck for Children’ and LGBT activists held in Brisbane
The judges said…
Carl Smith’s 30 minute documentary for ABC Radio National’s “Future Tense” program was an original, sophisticated and insightful piece of journalism. He combined impressive international research, engaging writing and polished production to cover the topic. Carl shows a great understanding of the medium by using music and natural sound, in addition to interviews, to tell the story. His conversational delivery was perfect for the piece. He has a promising future ahead of him. The judges have also awarded Alexander Tamayo a Highly Commended. His vibrant long-format radio story captured a protest about same-sex marriage in Brisbane’s CBD. By combining great natural sound and strong interviews he delivered a balanced, timely and engaging piece of journalism.
Most Outstanding Journalism Student – Regional
Sponsor: Department of the Premier and Cabinet
Winner: Alison Francis – University of Queensland regional campus – “Refugee problem becomes solution for regional employer”
Finalists:
The judges said…
The judges were impressed with the calibre of work provided by aspiring journalists in this category. Beyond the importance of the story, judges considered its originality and if students had comprehensively covered their topics. Alison Francis’ article succinctly explored the skills crisis in Biloela and the opportunities it presented to Burmese refugees with depth and care. The maturity in the writing from a student journalist covering a potentially divisive topic was also noted by the judges. Comments from refugees were paired with solid research to illustrate a view on an often-overlooked part of regional Queensland.
All Media – Multicultural Affairs Reporting
Sponsor: Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland
Winner: Leanne Edmistone – The Sunday Mail – “Common Ground”
Finalists:
The judges said…
“Common Ground” was the stand-out, due to its sensitive and thought-provoking portrayal of six young Australians who all came to this country as asylum seekers. Leanne’s careful use of the subjects’ own words allowed the reader to better comprehend that journey to another world. The judges also recognised the legwork that such a piece would have involved, and applaud Leanne’s ability to reward the trust of these young people with a faithful retelling of their stories. To use a cliche, Leanne’s article set out to put a human face on an issue often associated with scare-tactics and fear; and the judges felt she achieved that. Features like Leanne’s show the importance of giving such complex moral issues in-depth consideration.
All Media – Excellence in Rural Journalism
Sponsor: Rural Press Club
Winner: Kathy McLeish – ABC Landline – “Buying the Farm”
Finalists:
The judges said…
Kathy’s work stands out in her ability to generate information, be creative in how she tells a story and teach us along the way. In a body of work marked by these qualities, she was a stand out winner in this category.
All Media – Social Issues Reporting
Sponsor: Queensland Council of Social Service
Winner: Michael McKenna and Rory Callinan – The Australian -“The Secret’s of Girls Suicides
Finalists:
Highly Commended: Amanda Watt – The Courier-Mail – “The Twilight Zone”
The judges said…
This category attracted a very strong calibre of entries and it was difficult for the judges to pick just a few finalists. The finalists not only broke new ground with their stories they did so with empathy, compassion and sensitive reporting. There was a clear winner, however, with Michael McKenna and Rory Callinan’s entry – The Secrets of Girls Suicide. The pair’s dogged search for the truth about two girls in state care, abused by those entrusted to look after them, who later, separately, took their own lives isn’t easy reading. Their coverage set a spotlight on the wider issue of children in care and the difficulties involved in telling their stories.
All Media – Sports Journalism
Sponsor: Purple Palate
Winner: Mike Colman – The Courier-Mail – “Land of the Long Black Cloud”
Finalists:
The judges said…
The judges believe this is journalism of the highest order, exploring the psychological impact of an All Blacks win for the earthquake-devastated people of Christchurch in New Zealand. The story was highly emotionally charged, superbly researched and delicately written. It explored all facets of life after the quake and had the effect of causing us as readers to think deeply about the connection between sport and daily life. The style and syntax made it easy reading whilst the writers connection to the emotive aspects of living through nature inspired trauma, combined with his knowledge of and passion for sport, allowed the reader to travel with him to Christchurch. The writer’s ability to meld sport and sociology elevates his writing to a completely unique level.
Artwork – Cartoon, Illustration or Graphic
Sponsor: Media Super
Winner: Sean Callinan – The Courier-Mail – “Being Clive Palmer”
Finalists:
The judges said…
Sean’s winning entry, an interactive online graphic about Queensland’s Walter Mitty millionaire Clive Palmer, does what we all strive to do: inform and entertain. While the other entries beautifully and humorously caught moments, most notably Anna Bligh’s Bucket List and Julia Gillard’s House of Horrors, Being Clive Palmer caught many. It was a wonderful, mischievous and most engaging use of the medium.
Online Journalism
Sponsor: Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance
Winner: Scott Gamble, Miranda Grant, Michael Bromage, Solua Middleton, Brad Marsellos and Leandro Palacio – ABC Open – “Aftermath: stories of disaster, Resilience and Recovery”
Finalists:
The judges said…
This body of work stands as an excellent resource for those affected by the Queensland disasters and for those wanting to know more, not only within Australia but internationally. The unit made excellent use of the resources available to it, to compile a lasting tribute to the victims of devastating disasters. It is both technically flawless and deeply informative, whilst its interactivity makes it more compelling for the audience. The compassion brought to the project by the journalists is obvious and informs the journalism. The journalism itself makes use of old fashioned journalistic modus operandi – talking to people on the ground, searching out stories and giving voice to those otherwise without one. It is a brilliant way to allow communities to feel they have an outlet to express their reactions to the experiences they faced, and it allows fellow Australians to empathise with those impacted.
Photography: News Photography
Sponsor: Nikon
Winner: David Kelly – Qweekend – “After the Fire”
Finalists:
The judges said…
The News Photograph category presented some exceptional quality work. The professional craft skills of photography, matched with powerful newsworthy content, the innovation of the photographer to tell the story visually and ability to capture emotion to affect the reader are all present in the work of David Kelly. His thoughtful appraisal of the story surrounding the aftermath of a fire that killed 11 people, and his ability to fold the intensity of emotion into one portrait has gained him the judge’s admiration
Photography: Photographic Essay
Sponsor: Nikon
Winner: Evan Morgan– The Townsville Bulletin – “Afghanistan: Mateship and Sacrifice”
Finalists:
The judges said…
A photographic essay is more than a collection of images on a theme. It is an artform that has been practiced seriously since the publication of the first edition of Life magazine in 1936. Its “Declaration of intent” stated that its essays would enable the reader “To see life; to see the world; to see strange things – machines, armies … to see and be amazed; to see and be interested”. Evan’s essay of Australian troops in Afghanistan conducting routine patrols, is punctured by an incident that saw the death of three soldiers. His images of mateship tear at the reader’s heart and provide us with a glimpse of the lives of our peace keeping forces abroad.
Photography: Sports Photograph
Sponsor: The Walkley Foundation
Winner: Brian Cassey – the Australian Weekend Magazine – “The Seventh Second”
Finalists:
Judges Comment:
The Sports Photography category received many technically excellent examples of the craft and this year the judges were not disappointed. They looked for an image with the greatest impact, most likely to hold a reader’s gaze and to provide the reader with the same emotion felt by the photographer at the moment of capture. Brian’s bronco event image of horse defeating rider ticks all the boxes and without doubt provides us with en example of what makes this sport such an experience to witness.
Print/Online – Feature Article
Sponsor: Local Government Association of Queensland
Winner: Leisa Scott – QWeekend – “Duty of Care: National Disability Insurance Scheme”
Finalists:
The judges said…
This was a very difficult decision for the judges due to the very strong field of entries. Leisa’s feature was well researched, extremely topical and elegantly structured. She managed to humanise an extremely complex issue and cut through the political debate to present the struggle towards a National Disability Insurance Scheme from the perspective of those who would gain most benefit from it. All in all, this was a great piece of insightful journalism.
Print/Online – News Report
Sponsor: Nine News
Winner: Hedley Thomas – “Dam Exposed” – The Australian
Finalists:
The judges said…
Hedley Thomas’ ‘Dam Expose’ is a textbook example of investigative journalism at its best. It was thoroughly researched, the technical nature of the information was simply and clearly written and was highly newsworthy.
Print/Online – Three Headings
Sponsor: Network Seven
Winner: Baz McAlister – The Courier-Mail – “Too Haute to Handle”, “Blinky on the Brink” and “Celeb Stylist Sassoon’s Sad Parting”
Finalists:
The judges said…
Though this category was extremely competitive, Baz’s three headings caught the judge’s eye with their clever subtlety. The judges looked for headings that not only had an element of playfulness and a sense of fun, but also clearly told the story. Most of the entries hit the bullseye. The ?nalists entries, in particular, were quite outstanding. However, Baz’s three entries each showed deft touches, and their consistency shaded the others.
Radio – Current Affairs, Documentary or Feature
Sponsor: Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance
Winner: Charlotte Glennie– ABC Radio National – “The Long War”
Finalists:
The judges said…
Charlotte showcased excellent journalism skills in this piece, giving listeners a firsthand account of the lives of partners and families of Australian soldiers killed or injured in action. Charlotte had to establish trust with the grieving families to gain interviews. She also raised serious questions about the treatment of some of the families. And she did some of this while on maternity leave, editing the piece on a home laptop. In the end, Charlotte delivered a compelling piece of radio that was both newsworthy and impactful.
Radio – News Report
Sponsor: John Deere
Winner: Amelia Birnie – 4BC Radio – “Flood Inquiry”
Finalists:
The judges said…
Amelia dominated this category and her work on the flood inquiry was the standout of the entries. Amelia took a complicated topic and delivered it to listeners in an easily digested manner. She showcased her knowledge through news reports and live interviews. And she also went further than the inquiry, seeking out storylines beyond what happened in the courtroom. Her speed was also impressive. The flood inquiry was one of the most newsworthy events of the last 12 months and Amelia showed the benefit of journalists working hard for their listeners.
Regional and Community – Broadcast Report
Sponsor: Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance
Winner: David Lewis – ABC AM Radio/The World Today – “Stories from the Outback”
Finalists:
The judges said…
David Lewis’ Body of work shows the breadth and depth of life in outback Queensland. The stories exhibit obvious research and good use of the radio medium.
Regional and Community – Feature Article or Opinion
Sponsor: Media Super
Winner: Rae Wilson – Sunshine Coast Daily – “Drug Empire Falls”
Finalists:
The judges said…
Rae has turned a story that would be a space filler into a gripping tale by using contacts and solid understanding of courts.
Regional and Community – News Photograph
Sponsor: ABC
Winner: Claudia Baxter – The Queensland Times – “You’re Surrounded”
Finalists:
The judges said…
The judges faced a difficult task in selecting finalists from such a strong body of work. They looked for images that engaged the reader, presented newsworthy information, were of benefit to the public and above all were remembered for their powerful impact. Claudia’s coverage of the police, with guns drawn, surrounding a vehicle whose occupant had threatened to use a sawn-off rifle, fits the bill perfectly. Her professional coverage of the event, under the obvious threat of personal injury, has enabled the newspaper’s readers to witness the unfolding of a dramatic event in the safety of their own surroundings.
Regional and Community – News Report Print/Online
Sponsor: Ipswich City Council
Winner: Stephanie Bedo – The Gold Coast Bulletin- “Budget Blowout”
Finalists:
The judges said…
The judges were impressed with the number of entrants and the
standard of work in this category. Regional papers and smaller outlets do a lot of reporting that may not “dazzle”, but is of great value to their local communities, and that grunt work should be applauded. The judges found Stephanie Bedo’s series on the Gold Coast hospital covered an important ongoing crisis in community health care, including broken promises and inefficient use of resources. It involved lots of legwork, using clean copy to cover an often technical story, and kept up the pressure for change. The other nominees also displayed great skill in investigative research and writing, detailing issues of local relevance and controversy.
Television – Current Affairs, Documentary or Feature
Sponsor: Queensland Police Union
Winner: Caitlin Shea and Roger Carter – ABC’s Australian Story – “Love and Other Drugs”
Finalists:
Highly Commended: John Taylor – ABC’s 730 Report Queensland – “Royal Life”
The judges said…
In an extremely competitive field of entrants, judges considered this an extraordinary piece of journalism that managed to strike the perfect balance of intense research, exhaustive relationship building, sensitive interviewing and exceptional visual storytelling. Over six months of patient, delicate and responsible television production, Caitlin Shea and Roger Carter created a piece that rippled with medical relevance while never losing sight of the deeply moving love story at its heart.
Television – News Report
Sponsor: QUT Creative Industries
Winner: Lane Calcutt – Nine News – “Protest”
Finalists:
The judges said…
This was a very strong field covering an impressive range of tropics. Lane Calcutt’s coverage of the Australia Day protest in Canberra stood out, however, because of the reporter’s superb storytelling. Calcutt managed to convey the drama and tension of the story without hyperbole, and also give a rare insight into how our political leaders respond at a time of immense pressure. Powerful and illuminating TV.
The John Bean Memorial Award for Television Camera Work
Sponsor: ABC
Winner: Deon Davies – Ten’s 630 with George Negus – “Africa Crisis”
Finalists:
The judges said…
The judges felt there was great camera work in all of the entries. This is a very special award in memory of your mate John (Beanie), so we thought about how he would have filmed for this category and how he would have loved these pictures. Well done, Deon.
2011 WINNERS
All Media – Young Journalist of the Year
Winner: Jared Owens , The Australian – Body of Work
Finalists:
Miriam Hall, Rural Reporter, ABC Radio National, “After the Cyclone”
Kieran Campbell, Sunshine Coast Daily, “Inside the WikiLeaks Storm”.
Judges’ comments: The judges felt that Jared’s work showed maturity, initiative and determination to break stories .He consistently dug deeper on issues, finding new angles and exploring the emotional impact of the people involved. Jared’s coverage of the rising death toll of Australian soldiers in Afghanistan has been outstanding. He was able to win the trust of the diggers and their families back home, bringing depth and empathy to their stories of loss and fear. His stories culminated in an exclusive series on how the federal government was using a legal loophole to deny soldiers compensation for their wounds, leading to the Defence and Veteran Affairs departments to push for the abolition of the policy.
All Media – Most Outstanding Journalism Student – Regional
Winner: Jodie Stephens, University of the Sunshine Coast, Body of Work
Finalist:
Lynette Brown, University of the Sunshine Coast, Body of Work
All Media – Most Outstanding Journalism Student – Metro
Winner: Robert Forsaith, University of Queensland, Body of Work
Finalist: Anthony Gough, Jschool, Body of Work
Judges’ comments: Robert Forsaith has shown initiative in propelling the Queensland flood story to an international sports publication. He made a successful pitch to a niche publisher and sought out professional interviewees. Robert’s writing has shown the promise of his own unique style, and is to be commended.
Regional and Community – Best Broadcast Report
Winner: Bruce Atkinson, ABC Radio News, “Rocky Flood”
Finalists:
Josh Bavas, ABC Radio National, “Rockhampton floods”
Jo Skinner and Nikole Jacobi, ABC Coast FM, Sunshine Coast QLD , “Exposing Hendra Virus Procedures”
Regional and Community – Best News Photograph
Winner: Nat Bromhead, Fraser Coast Chronicle, “The Tragic passing of George Kotis”
Finalists:
Adam Davies, Toowoomba Chronicle, “Our Darkest Hour”
Marc McCormack, The Cairns Post, “Shipwrecked”
Judges’ comments: The photographer was on the ball here and he has framed and composed this image well. In one shot he has illustrated the wreckage, the drama, the senselessness and bloody tragedy of road carnage with the focal point being the body in the foreground, a striking metaphor for a full stop.
Regional and Community – Best Feature Article or Opinion Piece
Winner: Owen Jacques, Sunshine Coast Daily, “The Words of a Flood Hero” 6
Finalists:
Evan Morgan, Townsville Bulletin, “Women’s Champion”
Rae Wilson, Sunshine Coast Daily, “Missing Pieces – Daniel Morcombe”
Judges’ comments: Qld Fire and Rescue officer Andrew Neil was not one to be skimmed. It held the reader with every line – absolutely compelling. More than that, it did what a good feature should do – transported the reader to the scene. One could feel the tension, the despair, the elation – it was television in newsprint. The judges were unanimous in their view that this was an outstanding piece of work.
Regional and Community – Best Print/Online News Report
Winner: Kieran Campbell, Sunshine Coast Daily, “At the Centre of a WikiLeaks Storm”
Finalists:
Grant Stockwell, Yolande Schefe, Paul Donoughue, Anthony Templeton and Jason Tin, City North News, “Clean up Crash Corner”
Koren Helbig, Quest Newspapers, “$5 Million Payout”
Judges’ comments: Kieran Campbell scooped major Australian and international outlets when he followed up a newsroom tip-off and turned it into a world exclusive interview with one of the most influential people in the life of Julian Assange – his mother. Having won Christine Assange’s confidence and trust, Kieran developed a remarkable family insider’s story into a political hot potato for Prime Minister Julia Gillard. He followed those stories with a visit to the United Kingdom, a meeting with Assange and a series of stories to accompany his own photographs.
All Media – Excellence in Rural Journalism
Winner: Pip Courtney, Landline, ABC TV, “Diesel Dash”
Finalists:
John Andersen, Townsville Bulletin, “Bowen’s Tomato Sabotage”
Kathy McLeish, Landline, ABC TV, “Desert Bloom “
Judges’ comments: The judges were impressed by the depth and breadth of journalistic skill displayed by the finalists that submitted for the category of rural journalism.The impact and benefit to the public of these issues was significant to both local regional audiences and the wider city based community.Pip Courtney’s story was a clear stand out. Highlighting a new resource rush, her story was layered yet clearly presented. The story offered insight into the Coal Seam Gas and Underground Coal Gasification Industries. Importantly the story offered a balanced explanation of the effects of these industries on the natural environment, as well as identifying the major players and stakeholders.The story offered a thorough explanation of a very newsworthy topic while using the medium to maximum effect.The story unwrapped the public confusion about the Coal Seam Gas industry. It demystified some of the issues that have arisen about the extraction process. “Diesel dash” showed how people simply confuse unrelated issues arising from the processes used in Coal Seam Gas and Underground Coal Gasification.The story introduced new talent to tell their story rather than relying on the usual suspects. It was a pleasure to watch.The judges would like to congratulate Pip Courtney for her understanding of the medium of television and her ability to weave a good narrative while letting the talent take the viewer on a journey that was both entertaining and informative.
All Media – Best Social Issues Report
Winner: Trent Dalton, The Courier-Mail Qweekend, “Home Is Where The Hurt Is”
Finalists:
Michael McKenna and Rory Callinan, The Australian, “Six Degrees of Desperation”
Peter McCutcheon, 7.30 Report, ABC TV, “Citizen Rowe”
Highly Commended:
Bianca Clare, Sunshine Coast Daily, “Mum’s Unspoken Love”
Judges’ comments: The judges were imporeseed by the comprehjensive research involved to persuade victims and prepetrators to speak openly. The gut-wrenching nature of the content made compelling reading because of the uncluttererd writing style. It hightlighted the need to overhaul domestic violent orders and review of hte police powers, and will to intervene.
All Media – Indigenous Issues Reporting
Winner: Grantlee Kieza , The Courier-Mail QWeekend, “Million Dollar Nobby”
Finalists:
Kathleen Skene, Townsville Bulletin, “Concerns Over Indigenous Funding “
Tony Koch and Sarah Elks, The Australian, “Model Indigenous College Fights Claims”
Stefan Armbruster, World News Australia, SBS Television, “Waiting for Justice”
All Media – Best Multi-Cultural Affairs Reporting
Winner: Peter McCutcheon, 7.30 Report, ABC TV, “From Nauru to Citizenship “ 11 All Media Best Multi-Cultural Affairs Reporting
Finalist:
Stefan Armbruster, World News Australia, SBS Television, “Queensland Floods”
Kathy McLeish, Stateline, ABC TV, “Refugee Jackaroo “
Judges’ comments: This was an exclusive story and very topical. Peter McCutcheon marked the awarding of Australian citizenship to two men – Farid Ahmad Abdullah and Chaman Shah. They arrived in Australia as unwanted asylum seekers, were accepted as refugees, and finally became Australians. One man was on board the MV Tampa: the other spent several years on Nauru. Peter had tracked these two men for years, with previous stories aired in 2003 and 2004. He showed great commitment over time, fine craft skills and sensitivity, without venturing into advocacy. It put two human faces to a hotly contested public policy.
All Media – Best Business Journalism
Winner: Mark Ludlow, The Australian Financial Review, “The QR National Sale”
Finalists:
Ian Townsend, Background Briefing, ABC Radio National, “Gas Rush”
Anthony Marx, The Courier-Mail, “Three Failed Businessmen”
Judges’ comments: Mark Ludlow’s series of articles on the QR National sale was the stand out winner in this category .His coverage was ahead of the game, always insightful and accurate. The articles were a must-read for anyone following one of the biggest floats in Australian history.
Print/Online – Best Three Headings
Winner: Phil Stafford , The Courier-Mail QWeekend, “Capitation, not capitulation”
Finalists:
Trevor Hockins, Sunshine Coast Daily, “Invasion of the Coast Snatchers”
Patrick Whyte, The Courier-Mail , Three Headings
Ben Hays, ABC News Online, Best Three Headlines
Judges’ comments: Three pithy headlines consistently capturing the essence of each story. Newsworthy subjects and thoughtful in execution. High in impact and public benefit.
Print/Online – Best Cartoon, Illustration or Graphic
Winner: Tim Hannaford, Gold Coast Bulletin, “Osama Bin Laden’s Death”
Finalists:
Joanne Brooker, The Walkley Magazine, “Twittering Journos”
Jonathan Bentley, The Courier-Mail, “The Water Crisis”
Judges’ comments: The concept of delivering Osama bin Laden’s head on a platter as an act of revenge was expertly realised in this artwork. The clinical nature of the mission was well depicted by the gloved hand of the servant and the decision to only use colour for the freshly buoyed symbol of the United States was clever. It was an eye-catching and meaningful front page.
All Media – Best Online Journalism
Winner: ABC News Online team, ABC News Online, “Queensland floods: Before and After Interactive”
Finalists:
Sean Callinan and Shona Cox, couriermail.com.au, “Cyclone Yasi”
Jodie Richter, couriermail.com.au, “Queenslanders in Afghanistan”
Highly Commended:
ABC News Online team, ABC News Online, “Queensland Floods 2011”
Judges’ comments: The judges felt there were a number of exceptional entries in this category. In addition to newsworthiness, judges took into consideration best use of online as a medium. A picture is worth a thousand words, and the judges agreed nothing other than the raw footage of flash flooding devastating Grantham had as much impact during this disaster than the interactive before and after aerial images of the Brisbane floods published by ABC News Online. It was a simple idea that was beautifully executed, easy to use and broke new ground for the medium. Many other online news outlets in the months since have copied the idea. The judges were also impressed to learn that the interactive was created at a time when ABC News Online was operating from temporary offices due to the floods.
All Media – Best Sports Journalism
Winner: Peter Badel, The Sunday Mail, “State of Origin Racism Scandal”
Finalists:
Grantlee Kieza, The Courier-Mail QWeekend, “Peter Moody and Black Caviar”
John Taylor , 7.30 Report, ABC TV, Athlete Profiles (Body of Work)
Judges’ comments: Peter Badel’s stories revealed that racism is a problem even at NRL’s highest level – State of Origin. The newsworthiness was evident. The issue wasn’t sensationalised, rather Badel made considerable effort to present a balanced series of stories. His writing showed a detailed knowledge of the sport and the judges were particularly impressed by Badel’s commitment to tracking Greg Inglis down through his contacts, resulting in an exclusive interview at an airport lounge.
All Media – Best Commentary, Analysis, Opinion and Critique
Winner: Peter Doherty, Seven News Brisbane, “Live Flood Commentary & Analysis”
Finalists:
Hedley Thomas, The Australian, “Against the Flow”
Michael McKenna, “The Australian, Body of Work
Judges’ comments: This was a particularly difficult category to judge this year due to the very high standard of journalistic skill displayed when writing commentary. The final vote was very close. Each of the finalists was able to weave historical context, contemporary analysis and professional commentary into their work. Peter Doherty and his live flood commentary & analysis was the standout. The story was of obvious interest to a broad audience. As Brisbane and Ipswich flooded Peter Doherty’s live reports for television from a helicopter were compelling viewing. His live commentary showed an ability to work under pressure all the while allowing the pictures to tell the story while he offered important additional information and geographic context. Of note was Peter Doherty’s ability to place the floods in a historical framework. Often television lacks historical context making it difficult for the viewer to understand what actually led to the events being explained. This was not the case with Peter’s live reports. His historical references and personal knowledge of the history of previous floods made his live reports compelling. The logistical realities of live television, the need to wait to see where the rising waters went, while watching the emotional impact on those people effected simply meant that this was a drama of major human interest that allowed full use of the medium of television. The judges congratulate Peter Doherty in his efforts under pressure.
Best Photographic Essay
Winner: Brian Cassey, News Queensland, “Yasi”
Finalists:
Harrison Sarogossi, Brisbane Times, “Valley Nights”
Rob Maccoll, The Australian, couriermail.com.au, “State of Disaster”
Judges’ comments: An impressive collection of images, showing the force with which Cyclone Yasi smashed north Queensland, especially the devastated Port Hinchinbrook marina and the collapsed house. Great work to frame the after shot of the Dunk Island pool exactly as the before shot had been taken.
Best News Photograph
Winner: Rob Maccoll, The Daily Telegraph, News Limited, telegraph.co.uk, “Is That All You’ve Got?”
Finalists:
Neville Madsen, Toowoomba Chronicle, “Dent Street rescue attempt”
Brian Cassey, News Queensland, “Cyclone Yasi”
Judges’ comments: There were so many stunning images submitted this year it became a harrowing choice. It finally came down to a disaster picture with a novel twist that simply leapt out of the page. The laconic looks, the laughter and the beer surrounded by total wreckage summed up that “what the hell”, independent streak that is so North Queensland.
Best News & Current Affairs Camera Work
Winner: Jeremy Ward, Seven News Brisbane, “Lockyer Valley Flood”
Finalists:
Dean Caton, Landline, ABC TV, “Desert Bloom”
John Bean: 7.30 Report, ABC TV, “Return to Lake Eyre”
Judges’ comments: Dramatic and disturbing footage of the flood disaster that struck the Lockyer Valley. These shots show the enormous power of the floodwaters, which imperilled many including the cameraman himself and claimed the lives of some. The footage of the family trapped in their car as the floodwaters swirl around them is extremely harrowing. This has very high impact and is extremely newsworthy.
All Media – Best Broadcast Interview
Winner: Annie Guest, PM, ABC Radio National and Local Radio, “Insurers Back Council Flood Maps”
Finalists:
Belinda Sanders, ABC Local Radio, “Frank King’s Amazing Escape”
John Taylor, Correspondents Report, ABC Radio National, “Delhi Interview”
Jessica van Vonderen, 7.30 Queensland, ABC TV, “LNP Fury”
Judges’ comments: The art of the interview is on show in all of the entries this year – and judges were particularly taken with the range – from the quirky to the powerful and the passionate.But the judges gave the award to Annie Guest for her important interview with the Insurance Council – in which it effectively blamed residents for not understanding complex flood-maps and flood risks (a position the Council eventually dropped, in part because of this interview)
Best TV Current Affairs Feature, Documentary or Special
Winner: Peter Doherty, Seven News Brisbane, “The Flood of 2011”
Finalists:
Caitlin Shea and Jennifer Feller, Australian Story, ABC TV, “Shattered”
Peter McCutcheon, 7.30 Report, ABC TV, “Tuberculosis Crisis”
Judges’ comments: The judges felt this was an important record of an unprecedented event in Queensland’s history. With an agile use of graphics, elegant scripting and high production values, it was emotional yet factual. The documentary was seamless, despite the tight turn around.
Best Print/Online Feature Article
Winners: Natasha Bita, The Weekend Australian Magazine, “Virus in the System”
Finalists:
Mike Colman, The Courier-Mail Qweekend, “The Story of a Tree”
Christine Jackman, The Weekend Australian Magazine, “Fishers of Men – or Fishermen?”
Matthew Condron, The Courier-Mail QWeekend, “Brisbane Flood”
Judges’ comments: In a large and highly competitive collection of entries, the standard of writing was consistingly high. However beautiful writing alone was not enough to stand out from this field. Natasha Bita’s combination of doggedress, incisive reporting and empathic writing , as well as her deft handling of medical policies, ensured she was a deserving winner.
Best Radio Feature, Documentary or Special Broadcast
Winner: Stephanie Smail , AM, The World Today and PM, ABC Radio National and Local Radio, “Surviving Yasi”
Finalist:
Annie Guest, AM and PM, ABC Radio National and Local Radio, “Southern Queensland Flood and Aftermath”
Highly Commended:
Ian Townsend, Background Briefing, ABC Radio National, “Trains Do It Better”
Judges’ comment: This was a tough category dominated by disaster coverage, but Stephanie’s entry stood out. The judges felt her 3 radio current affairs stories showed an assuredness, maturity and empathy beyond her years. Her pre and post Yasi reports were confident, incisive and covered a lot of ground. To tell the story of Yasi after it hit she worked in extremely difficult conditions making it to Cardwell by hitching and walking. In her live phoner with PM host Peter Cave she kept her cool vividly described the damage she had seen from the air and on foot. Around the country people wanted to know what happened. She told us and showed that in the right hands radio can indeed paint powerful pictures for its listeners. Particular mention must go to Background Briefing’s Ian Townsend who the judges have Highly Commended for his feature “”Trains do it better.” Ian made the top 3 with an compelling entry that was NOT disaster related. His long form piece was clear, compelling and well-structured and, unearthed a fascinating scoop which other media followed up. The 45 minute piece never flagged and was a fine example of a senior reporter in command of his craft.
Best Radio News Report
Winners: Melinda Howells, Chris O’Brien, Emma Pollard, Siobhan Barry and Kerrin Binnie, ABC Radio News, “Newman’s Switch”
Finalists:
Stefan Armbruster, World News Australia, SBS Radio, “Malu Sara Case”
Natalie Bochenski, Radio 4BC, “LNP Parlimentary Wrap”
Siobhan Barry, ABC Radio News, “Cyclone Yasi”
Best TV News Report
Winners: Erin Edwards, Geoff Breusch, Jeremy Ward, Luke Miers, Seven News Brisbane, “Lockyer Valley Flood”
Finalists:
Cameron Price, Nine News Brisbane, “Grantham”
Leisa Roles, Ten News, “Afghanistan Rocket Attack”
Highly Commended:
Spencer Jolly, Nine News Brisbane, “Newman Exclusive”
Judges’ comments: There was strong competition for this story, with some powerful and moving reporting. The judges were impressed by the ability of the Channel 7 team to combine powerful and disturbing imagery with strong story-telling. The series of reports portrayed the terrible emotions of the disaster without sensationalism or cliche.
Best Print/Online News Report
Winners: Michael McKenna, Jamie Walker, Hedley Thomas, Amanda Gearing and Graham Lloyd; The Australian, “Floodwaters Show No Mercy”
Finalists:
Koren Helbig, The Courier-Mail, “The Waiting Game”
Steven Wardill, The Courier-Mail, “People Power”
Judges’ comments: Queensland’s media dug deep during the state’s summer of sorrow to produce consistently outstanding coverage of the rolling crises and their aftermath. The judges found it extremely difficult to elevate one example among a host of stunning entries. However, we felt The Australian team’s southeast Queensland flood coverage was a superb blend of light and shade that maintained its intensity after the waters subsided.
Best Investigative Journalism
Winners: Tony Koch and Sarah Elks, The Australian, “Model Indigenous College Fights Claims”
Finalists:
Tanya Chilcott and Alexandra Schultz, The Courier-Mail, “NAPLAN Cheating Uncovered”
Chris Allen, A Current Affair, Channel Nine, “Car Yard Raids”
Peter McCutcheon, 7.30 Report, ABC TV, “Asbestos Flood”
Judges’ comments: As always, the judges found this a particularly hard category to adjudicate, given the high standard of entries from all mediums. They felt that particular reference should be made to Car Yard Raids by Chris Allen, as an excellent example of the genre, showing sound ethical judgement (often missing in ‘hidden camera’ stories) and potentially saving lives in its exposition. But the winner was “Model Indigenous College fights claims”, by Tony Koch and Sarah Elks. This was skilfully investigated, well rounded, comprehensive, and well-written. Judges noted the dogged determination in ferreting out details, the continued investigation over some weeks, and that the story achieved the admirable result of ensuring that future students will be treated with dignity and respect.
Journalist of the Year
Winner: Trent Dalton
Most Outstanding Contribution to Journalism
Winner: Tony Koch
All Media – Young Journalist of the Year
Sarah Elks, The Australian, Body of Work
Sponsored by the Department of the Premier and Cabinet
All Media: Most Outstanding Journalism Student – Regional
Alice Campion, The University of the Sunshine Coast, Body of Work
Sponsored by the Queensland Parliamentary Media Gallery
All Media: Most Outstanding Journalism Student – Metro
John Corlett, Jschool, Body of Work
Sponsored by the Queensland Parliamentary Media Gallery
Regional and Community: Best Broadcast Report
Marlina Whop, ABC TV News, “Hendra series”
Sponsored by John Deere & Company
Regional and Community: Best News Photograph
Marc McCormack, The Cairns Post, “Saturday Bloody Saturday”
Sponsored by the Rural Press Club
Regional and Community: Best Feature Article or Opinion Piece
Nathan Evans, The Noosa Journal, “The End for River Hulks”
Sponsored by James Cook University
Regional and Community: Best Print/Online News Report
Brooke Baskin, Townsville Bulletin, “School’s Shout”
Sponsored by the ABC
All Media: Excellence in Rural Journalism
Bianca Clare, Mackay Daily Mercury, “I Survived 15 Days in a Coma with Swine Flu ”
Sponsored by the Rural Press Club
All Media: Best Social Issues & Indigenous Affairs Reporting
Michael McKenna and Tony Koch, The Australian, “Two Speed Justice”
Sponsored by the Queensland Council of Social Service
All Media: Best Multi-Cultural Affairs Reporting
Amanda Watt, The Courier-Mail Qweekend, “Degrees of Difficulty”
Sponsored by the Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland
All Media: Best Business Journalism
Patrick Lion, The Courier-Mail, “Stadiums a Drain on State Finances”
Sponsored by Media Super
Print/Online: Best Three Headings
Trevor Hockins, Sunshine Coast Daily, “Under the weather / Cock-a-doodle-don’t / It’s not GayFL”
Sponsored by Australia Post
Print/Online: Best Cartoon, Illustration or Graphic
Tony Bela and Justin Richardson, The Courier-Mail, “Qldopoly”
Sponsored by Media Super
Online: Best Online Journalism
Elaine Ford, ABC News Online, “Southern Qld Floods”
Sponsored by Queenslanders Credit Union
All Media: Best Sports Journalism
Andrew Hamilton, The Courier-Mail, “Fev Drops the Punt”
Sponsored by Purple Palate
All Media: Best Commentary, Analysis, Opinion and Critique
Craig Johnstone, The Courier-Mail, Body of Work
Sponsored by Three Plus
Print/Online: Best Photographic Essay
David Kelly, The Courier-Mail Qweekend, “The Flag Wavers”
Sponsored by Nikon
Print/Online: Best News Photograph
Rob Maccoll, The Sunday Mail, Sunday Herald Sun, “White Wedding”
Sponsored by the Seven Network (Brisbane)
Television: Best News & Current Affairs Camera Work
Jamie Wilson, Seven News Brisbane, “Runcorn Siege”
Sponsored by The Courier-Mail
All Media: Best Broadcast Interview
Quentin Hull, ABC Local Radio & Grandstand Digital, “The White Windie”
Sponsored by The Walkley Foundation
Television: Best Current Affairs Feature, Documentary or Special
Mark Willacy, ABC TV Foreign Correspondent, “Pet Monsters”
Sponsored by Fosters Group Ltd
Print/Online: Best Feature Article
John Andersen, Townsville Bulletin, “Horrific Fires Still Taking Their Toll”
Sponsored by the Local Government Association of Queensland
Radio: Best Feature, Documentary or Special Broadcast
Heather Stewart, ABC Radio National 360, “A Sense of Duty”
Sponsored by Australia Post
Radio: Best News Report
Kallee Buchanan, ABC Radio Widebay, Queensland and National News, “Trinity Bates Murder series”
Sponsored by Network Ten
Television: Best News Report
Stefan Armbruster, SBS World News Australia, “Torres Strait King Tides”
Sponsored by QUT
Print/Online: Best News Report
Steven Wardill, The Courier-Mail, “Bligh Blitz”
Sponsored by Nine News
All Media: Best Investigative Journalism
Michael McKenna, The Australian,” Betrayal of Trust”
Sponsored by the Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance
Media: Journalist of the Year
Mark Willacy, ABC TV Foreign Correspondent, “et Monsters”
Sponsored by Griffith University
All Media: Most Outstanding Contribution to Journalism
David Sproule
Sponsored by The University of Queensland
Young Journalist of the Year
Thomas Chamberlin, The Cairns Post, “Cash for Comment”
Sponsored by Department of the Premier and Cabinet
Most Outstanding Journalism Student – Regional
Kieran Moran, James Cook University, “Bouncers Behaving Badly”
Sponsored by Queensland Parliamentary Media Gallery
Best News Photograph – Regional & Community Media
Marc McCormack, The Cairns Post, “Dengue Death”
Sponsored by the ABC
Most Outstanding Journalism Student – Metropolitan
Tom Hersey, Queensland University of Technology, “Body of Work”
Sponsored by Queensland Parliamentary Media Gallery
Best Broadcast Report – Regional & Community Media
Megan Woodward, ABC Radio AM, “The Ignored Flood”
Sponsored by John Deere & Company
Best Print/Online Feature Article or Opinion Piece – Regional & Community Media
Nathan Evans, The Noosa Journal, “How Many More? Why it’s Time to Stop Playing Politics over Killer Highway”
Sponsored by James Cook University
Excellence in Rural Journalism
Pip Courtney and Ingrid Just, ABC TV Landline, “Blue Hills – Back to the Future”
Sponsored by Australia Post
Best Coverage of Social Equity and/or Indigenous Affairs
Chloe Cassidy, Network Ten, “On the Ball”
Sponsored by Queensland Council of Social Service
Best Coverage of Multicultural Issues
Amanda Watt, The Courier-Mail QWeekend, “Hell and High Water”
Sponsored by Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland
Best Business or Property Report
Liam Walsh, The Courier-Mail, “The Business of ABC”
Sponsored by Terry White Chemists
Best Three Headlines
Grantlee Kieza, The Courier-Mail, “Three Headlines”
Sponsored by Australia Post
Best Cartoon, Illustration or Graphic
Brett Lethbridge, couriermail.com.au, ” Australia”
Sponsored by Media Super
Best Comment, Analysis, Opinion & Critique
Mike O’Connor, The Courier-Mail, “It’s a Bridge too Far”
Sponsored by Purple Palate
Best Photographic Essay
David Kelly, The Courier-Mail QWeekend, “Man or Mouth”
Sponsored by Nikon
Best News Photograph
Marissa Calligeros, brisbanetimes.com.au, “Thurston Breaks Down at Uncle’s Funeral”
Sponsored by Seven Network ( Brisbane)
Best TV News Camera Work
John Varga, Seven News, “Moreton Bay Oil Spill”
Sponsored by The Courier-Mail
Best Broadcast Interview
Bill McDonald, Ten News at Five, ” Walk Down Disaster Lane”
Sponsored by Griffith University
Best TV Current Affairs, Documentary or Feature (including camera work)
Caitlin Shea and Kristine Taylor, ABC TV Australian Story, “All the Pretty Horses”
Sponsored by Fosters Group Ltd
Best Sports Report
Dan Koch and Michael McKenna, The Australian, “Broncos Under Investigation”
Sponsored by Media Super
Best Print/Online Feature Article
Amanda Watt, The Courier-Mail QWeekend, “Vicious Cycle”
Sponsored by Local Government Association of Queensland
Best Radio Current Affairs or Feature
Heather Stewart, Anita Barraud and Damien Carrick, ABC Radio National The Law Report, ” Queensland’s Child Protection System”
Sponsored by Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance
Best Radio News Report
Stefan Armbruster, SBS Radio World View, “Malu Sara – Coroner’s Findings”
Sponsored by Network Ten (Brisbane)
Best TV News Report
Michael Best and Michael McKinnon, Seven News, “Police Corruption”
Sponsored by Queensland University of Technology
Best Print/Online News Report
Michael McKenna, The Australian, “Shocked to the Core”
Sponsored by The Walkley Foundation
Best Print/Online News Report – Regional & Community Media
Tony Raggatt, Townsville Bulletin, “Storm Drain”
Sponsored by Kingfisher Bay Resort
Best Investigative Report
Michael Crutcher and Matthew Fynes-Clinton, The Courier-Mail, “The Drugs Scourge”
Sponsored by Slater & Gordon Lawyers
Journalist of the Year
Michael McKenna, The Australian
Sponsored by Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance Queensland Branch
Most Outstanding Contribution to Journalism
Albert Asbury, ABC
Sponsored by The University of Queensland
FULL LIST OF WINNERS:
Young Journalist of the Year
Thomas Chamberlin, The Cairns Post, “Cash for Comment”
Sponsored by Department of the Premier and Cabinet
Most Outstanding Journalism Student – Regional
Kieran Moran, James Cook University, “Bouncers Behaving Badly”
Sponsored by Queensland Parliamentary Media Gallery
Best News Photograph – Regional & Community Media
Marc McCormack, The Cairns Post, “Dengue Death”
Sponsored by the ABC
Most Outstanding Journalism Student – Metropolitan
Tom Hersey, Queensland University of Technology, “Body of Work”
Sponsored by Queensland Parliamentary Media Gallery
Best Broadcast Report – Regional & Community Media
Megan Woodward, ABC Radio AM, “The Ignored Flood”
Sponsored by John Deere & Company
Best Print/Online Feature Article or Opinion Piece – Regional & Community Media
Nathan Evans, The Noosa Journal, “How Many More? Why it’s Time to Stop Playing Politics over Killer Highway”
Sponsored by James Cook University
Excellence in Rural Journalism
Pip Courtney and Ingrid Just, ABC TV Landline, “Blue Hills – Back to the Future”
Sponsored by Australia Post
Best Coverage of Social Equity and/or Indigenous Affairs
Chloe Cassidy, Network Ten, “On the Ball”
Sponsored by Queensland Council of Social Service
Best Coverage of Multicultural Issues
Amanda Watt, The Courier-Mail QWeekend, “Hell and High Water”
Sponsored by Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland
Best Business or Property Report
Liam Walsh, The Courier-Mail, “The Business of ABC”
Sponsored by Terry White Chemists
Best Three Headlines
Grantlee Kieza, The Courier-Mail, “Three Headlines”
Sponsored by Australia Post
Best Cartoon, Illustration or Graphic
Brett Lethbridge, couriermail.com.au, ” Australia”
Sponsored by Media Super
Best Comment, Analysis, Opinion & Critique
Mike O’Connor, The Courier-Mail, “It’s a Bridge too Far”
Sponsored by Purple Palate
Best Photographic Essay
David Kelly, The Courier-Mail QWeekend, “Man or Mouth”
Sponsored by Nikon
Best News Photograph
Marissa Calligeros, brisbanetimes.com.au, “Thurston Breaks Down at Uncle’s Funeral”
Sponsored by Seven Network ( Brisbane)
Best TV News Camera Work
John Varga, Seven News, “Moreton Bay Oil Spill”
Sponsored by The Courier-Mail
Best Broadcast Interview
Bill McDonald, Ten News at Five, ” Walk Down Disaster Lane”
Sponsored by Griffith University
Best TV Current Affairs, Documentary or Feature (including camera work)
Caitlin Shea and Kristine Taylor, ABC TV Australian Story, “All the Pretty Horses”
Sponsored by Fosters Group Ltd
Best Sports Report
Dan Koch and Michael McKenna, The Australian, “Broncos Under Investigation”
Sponsored by Media Super
Best Print/Online Feature Article
Amanda Watt, The Courier-Mail QWeekend, “Vicious Cycle”
Sponsored by Local Government Association of Queensland
Best Radio Current Affairs or Feature
Heather Stewart, Anita Barraud and Damien Carrick, ABC Radio National The Law Report, ” Queensland’s Child Protection System”
Sponsored by Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance
Best Radio News Report
Stefan Armbruster, SBS Radio World View, “Malu Sara – Coroner’s Findings”
Sponsored by Network Ten (Brisbane)
Best TV News Report
Michael Best and Michael McKinnon, Seven News, “Police Corruption”
Sponsored by Queensland University of Technology
Best Print/Online News Report
Michael McKenna, The Australian, “Shocked to the Core”
Sponsored by The Walkley Foundation
Best Print/Online News Report – Regional & Community Media
Tony Raggatt, Townsville Bulletin, “Storm Drain”
Sponsored by Kingfisher Bay Resort
Best Investigative Report
Michael Crutcher and Matthew Fynes-Clinton, The Courier-Mail, “The Drugs Scourge”
Sponsored by Slater & Gordon Lawyers
Journalist of the Year
Michael McKenna, The Australian
Sponsored by Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance Queensland Branch
Most Outstanding Contribution to Journalism
Albert Asbury, ABC
Sponsored by The University of Queensland
Most Outstanding Journalism Student
Regional Winner
Tom Haynes, University of the Sunshine Coast, The Sunshine Coast Daily, Seven News
Metro Winner
Kelly Hussey-Smith, Griffith University UNIverse Magazine, the Phnom Penh Post and the Australian PhotoJournalist
All Media Award for Young Journalist of the Year
Meg Palmer, Network Ten
All Media Award for Excellence in Rural Journalism
Pip Courtney, ABC TV Landline
Social Justice/Indigenous Reporting
Tony Koch, The Australian, “Desperate Hours of Island Rape Victim”
Best Business or Property Report
Patrick Lion, The Courier-Mail, “Tanks for Nothing”
Regional and Community Award for Best Broadcast
Stacey Katter,ABC Radio, “Is Mt Isa Mine Poisoning the Children?”
Regional and Community Award for Best News Photograph
Bryan Lynch, The Townsville Bulletin, “Heartbreak”
Regional and Community Award for Best Feature Article or Opinion Piece
Rae Wilson , TheSunshine Coast Dail, “Dirty Cops”
Regional and Community Award for Best Print News Report
Tahnee Watson,The North West Star, “Dajarra Water”
Best TV News Camera Work
Michael Lloyd,Seven News, “City Night Chaplains”
Best Radio Production Work
Ian Townsend, ABC Radio National, “Lost planes, lost men”
Best Radio Current Affairs or Feature
Heather Stewart,ABC Radio National Law Report, “Coronial Inquests”
Best Online Content Award
Jodie Munro O’Brien, The Courier-Mail, “ Iraq and Various stories”
Best Comment, Analysis, Opinion & Critique (All Media)
Tony Koch, The Australian, “Arrant Nonsense – Justice Fails”
Best Three Newspaper Headlines
Geoff Shearer, The Courier-Mail, “Tar Very Much”
Best Cartoon, Illustration or Graphics
Brett Lethbridge, The Courier-Mail, “Political Idol”
Best News Photograph
Brian Cassey, freelancing for the Sydney Morning Herald, “Aurukun Truants”
Best Photographic Essay
Brian Cassey, published in The Courier-Mail & Good Weekend Magazine, “Who’s Sorry Now?”
Best Sports Report
Sean Parnell, The Australian, “A Level Playing Field”
Best Broadcast Interview across All Media
Stacey Katter, ABC North West Queensland, “Is Mt Isa Mine Poisoning the Children?”
Best TV Current Affairs, Documentary or Feature
Joint winners
The Ten News Team, “Flooding Rains” and Mark Willacy, The 7:30 Report, “ Toxic Town”
Best TV News Report
Michael Best, Seven News, “Ocean Rescue”
Best Feature Article
Trent Dalton, The Courier-Mail, “City of Broken Dreams”
Best Print News Report
Tony Koch and Padraic Murphy, The Australian, “No Jail for Rape of Girl, 10″
Cathy Border, Ten News State Political Editor, received the 2007 Most Outstanding Contribution to Queensland Journalism Award.
The lifetime achievement award was announced at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre presentation dinner for the 2007 Queensland Media Awards.
Cathy began her career in 1985 as a researcher with the ABC before working as a reporter for 4AY in Townsville and as a senior reporter and producer for Brisbane’s 4BC.
In 1992, she returned to ABC radio, where she hosted a variety of current affairs programs.
Since May 2000, Cathy has worked for the Ten Network as their State Political Reporter.
Landline’s Sally Sara and Pip Courtney shared the Award for Journalist of the Year for their work “Black Dog” on depression amongst rural Australians.
Freelance Journalist Prize (All Media) – Sponsored by Queensland Council of Social Service
Heather Stewart, ABC Radio National and The Courier-Mail, “Breaking The Silence: Mentally Ill in Regional Queensland”
Social Justice Award (All Media) – Sponsored by Queensland Council of Social Service
Elizabeth Allen, The Courier-Mail, “Suicide Series” Michael McKenna, The Australian, “Betrayed Again”
Excellence in Agri-Business Reporting (All Media) – Sponsored by the Rural Press Club
Tim Collits, Ten News, “Milk”
Best Business or Property Report (All Media) – Sponsored by O’Neil Scott & Associates
Hedley Thomas, The Weekend Australian and The Australian, “Coal Crisis”
Best Coverage of Indigenous Affairs (All Media) – Sponsored by Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance
Brian Cassey, The Australian and The Courier-Mail, “To Be Indigenous – 40 Years On”
Multicultural Media Award (All Media) – Sponsored by Multicultural Affairs
Queensland Suzanna Clarke, The Courier-Mail, “Building Bridges”
Best Road Safety Awareness Report (All Media) – Sponsored by RACQ CARRS-Q
Patrick Lion, The Courier-Mail, “Stop the Carnage”
Most Outstanding Journalism Student (All Media) – Sponsored by the Queensland Parliamentary Media Gallery
Metropolitan Campus: Scott Mackinnon, Griffith University
Regional Campus: Loretta Bryce, University of Southern Queensland
Young Journalist of the Year (All Media) – Sponsored by the ABC
Jessica Grewal, Fraser Coast Chronicle, “The Ice Age”
Excellence in Rural Journalism (All Media) – Sponsored by the Rural Press Club
Sally Sara & Pip Courtney, ABC TV’s Landline, “Black Dog”
Best TV or Radio Report (Regional & Suburban Media) – Sponsored by Kingfisher Bay Resort & Village
Ashley McDermid, Channel Nine Gold Coast News, “The Lacey Brothers”
Best Newspaper Photograph (Regional & Suburban Media) – Sponsored by Kingfisher Bay Resort & Village
Vicki Wood, Caboolture News, “Mal Brough Lets It Out”
Best Newspaper Feature Article or Opinion Piece (Regional & Suburban Media) -Sponsored by James Cook University
Evan Morgan, Townsville Bulletin, “Over the Hump”
Best Newspaper News Report (Regional & Suburban Media) – Sponsored by James Cook University
Carolyn Tucker, Sunshine Coast Daily, “The Club”
Best TV Documentary or Feature Camera Work (Television & Radio) – Sponsored by Quest Community Newspapers
Wayne Hylard, Channel Nine’s Saturday Afternoon, “Take to the Skies”
Best TV News Camera Work (Television & Radio) – Sponsored by Quest Community Newspapers
Damian Leschke, Troy Gordon, Brian Russell & Nick Smith, Channel Nine Gold Coast News, “Runaway Deer”
Best News & Current Affairs Production Work (Television & Radio) – Sponsored by Griffith University
Craig Cooper & Kurt Howard, Channel Nine’s A Current Affair, “Drunk Driving Instructor”
Best Radio Current Affairs or Feature (Television & Radio) – Sponsored by Griffith University
Antony Funnell & Andrew Davies, ABC Radio National’s The Media Report, “Cross Media Changes and the State of Regional Media”
Best Online News Coverage (All Media) – Sponsored by Queenslanders personal banking
Shannon Molloy & Georgina Robinson, brisbanetimes.com.au, “Morgan”
Best Cartoon, Illustration or Graphic (Newspapers) – Sponsored by JUST Super
Brett Lethbridge, The Courier-Mail, “Murder Most Abstract”
Best Three Headlines (Newspapers) – Sponsored by Australia Post
Geoff Shearer, The Courier-Mail, “Love and other Cack-astrophies”
Best Newspaper Photograph (Newspapers) – Sponsored by Seven Network
Eddie Safarik, The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, “Haneef Leaves the Brisbane Watchhouse”
Best Newspaper Sport Report (Newspapers) – Sponsored by Network Ten
Sean Parnell, The Australian, “Sport Politics”
Best TV Sport Report (Television & Radio) – Sponsored by The Courier-Mail
Rohan Welsh, Seven News, “Camp Terrible”
Best TV Current Affairs, Documentary or Feature (Television & Radio) – Sponsored by QUT Creative Industries
Roger Carter, ABC TV’s Australian Story, “A Red Hot Go”
Best TV News Report (Television & Radio) – Sponsored by QUT
Michael Best, Seven News, “North Queensland Floods”
Best Newspaper Feature Article (Newspapers) – Sponsored by The University of Queensland
Trent Dalton, The Courier-Mail’s Qweekend, “Losing Matty”
Best Newspaper News Report (Newspapers) – Sponsored by The University of Queensland
Hedley Thomas, The Australian, “Dr Haneef”
Best Comment, Analysis, Opinion & Critique (All Media) – Sponsored by Three Plus
Tony Koch, The Australian, “Coroner Mistaken on Death”
Journalists of the Year (All Media) – Sponsored by Shine Lawyers
Sally Sara & Pip Courtney, ABC TV’s Landline, “Black Dog”
Most Outstanding Contribution to Journalism (All Media) – Sponsored by Virgin Blue
Cathy Border, Political Editor, Ten News
Most Outstanding Journalism Student (All Media) – Sponsored by Queensland Parliamentary Media Gallery
Regional campus finalists:
Renae Henry, University of the Sunshine Coast
Hannah Klose, University of the Sunshine Coast
Kathryn Young, Griffith University
Special mention: Kathryn Young, Griffith University, for research above and beyond the call of duty, operating undercover as a phone sex worker for a feature on the women involved.
Regional campus winner: Hannah Klose
Judges’ comments:
Hannah worked hard for Channel Seven on the Sunshine Coast this year, producing an impressive array of television news stories, and demonstrating an understanding of what makes good and relevant regional news.
Metropolitan campus finalists:
Bettina Hamilton-Irvine, QUT
Melissa Mallet, QUT
Leysha Penfold, J School
Metropolitan campus winner: Melissa Mallet
Judges’ comments:
Melissa shows a flair for television news reporting which was clearly demonstrated in her award entries, and has a promising career ahead of her.
Best Cadet or J1 Journalist Award (All Media) – Sponsored by ABC
Finalists:
Amy Remeikis, Sunshine Coast Daily, Body of Work
Patrick Lion, The Courier-Mail, Body of Work
Kathleen Donaghey, The Toowoomba Chronicle, Body of Work
Winner: Patrick Lion, The Courier-Mail, Body of Work
Judges’ comments:
The judges were impressed by the standard in this year’s Cadet and J1 category and all finalists are commended for their performance in a consistent body of work. In reaching a final decision the panel considered the journalist’s ability to adapt and report across a wide range of areas whether it is in a regional or metropolitan market. The panel encourages this year’s finalists to vigorously attempt to break news while developing and honing their reporting skills.
Freelance Journalism Award (All Media) – Sponsored by James Cook University
Finalists:
Desiree Duncan, Wynnum Herald, “Wynnum Herald 60th Anniversary Special Edition”
Brian Cassey, The Courier-Mail, “Larry”
Winner: Brian Cassey, The Courier-Mail, “Larry”
Judges’ comments:
Just hours after Cyclone Larry crossed the coast at Innisfail, Cairns-based freelance photographer Brian Cassey was taking some of the first pictures for Australia and the world. The scope and quality of Brian’s images of wrecked houses and lives gave us a mere glimpse of what had happened in far north Queensland. The shock, grief and disbelief on the faces of young couples and elderly residents mixed with aerial shots of the matchstick remains of homes and businesses left us gasping as well. In the very best traditions of the travelling freelancer, Brian immediately reacted to the crisis, got the shots and got them out.
Best Coverage of Indigenous Affairs (All Media) – Sponsored by James Cook University
Finalists:
Greg Reid, Bumma Bippera Media, “Talk Black”
Jeff Waters, ABC, “Palm Anniversary”
Tony Koch, The Australian, “Dirty Big Secret”
Special mention: The judges made special mention of the short-listed entry by Tony Koch. Tony’s ongoing commitment to indigenous affairs over many years has been a shining example of the role mainstream media can play in bringing to the fore the issues affecting indigenous people.
Winner: Greg Reid, Bumma Bippera Media, “Talk Black”
Judges’ comments:
Talk Black showed an ongoing commitment to indigenous affairs. The program enjoys a solid following in the indigenous community and highlights issues which come to the attention of powerbrokers, and invariably sparks wider coverage in the mainstream media. By providing a vehicle to disseminate information to the indigenous community, it is well placed to tap into issues affecting its audience and uses that symbiotic relationship to good effect.
Multicultural Media Award (All Media) – Sponsored by Multicultural Affairs Queensland
Finalists:
Margie Smithurst, ABC, “Asian Seniors”
Kathleen Donaghey, The Toowoomba Chronicle, “People’s Stories”
Clare Atkinson, 4ZZZ, “Harvest Festival”
Winner: Kathleen Donaghey, The Toowoomba Chronicle, “People’s Stories”
Judges’ comments:
Kathleen Donaghey’s Garden of Diversity Project was a fascinating showcase of multiculturalism. She drew the rich colour of their lives with word, picture and narrative. As many journalists would know, it is often difficult to persuade editors of the merits of multicultural reports which do not involve hard news angles. Kathleen produced seven sensitively written profiles on Australians from countries including India, Bosnia, Tibet, Sudan and the Philippines.
Best Coverage of Children’s or Young People’s Issues (All Media) – Sponsored by Commission for Children and Young People & Child Guardian
Finalists:
Jo Herriman-Ariel, Network Ten’s TTN, Body of Work
Jenny Woodward, ABC-TV’s Stateline, “Dimity Dornan: Hear and Say”
Winner: Jo Herriman-Ariel, Network Ten’s TTN, Body of Work
Judges’ comments:
Network Ten’s TTN produced an impressive body of work which showed its ongoing commitment to highlighting issues relevant to young people. The series of programs presented were a well-researched mix of stories. Rather than just presenting the news of the day in a manner which was easily digestible for children, the program went a step further in running stories about youth issues for the young people directly affected. In so doing, they engaged a generation which will in all probability be entrusted with addressing the youth issues of today when they walk the halls of power. In all, Network Ten presented a package which showed a depth of coverage and which reflects the importance of an ongoing commitment to youth issues and educating youth.
Best Road Safety Awareness Report (All Media) – Sponsored by RACQ & CarsQ
Finalists:
Bruce McMahon, The Courier-Mail’s Q Weekend, “United at Random”
Michelle Day, Gympie Times, “Who Helps The Helpers?”
Cameron Atfield, The Courier-Mail, “Road Deaths Rob Families of Christmas Joy”
Winner: Bruce McMahon, The Courier-Mail’s Q Weekend, “United at Random”
Judges’ comments:
Bruce McMahon’s article brilliantly demonstrated the ripple effect of one tragedy on up to 100 people. It was written in a very non-emotional way, but managed to powerfully put over the damage and hurt that follows a road tragedy. It broke the mould in its approach to the difficult issue.
Excellence in Agri-Business Reporting (All Media) – Sponsored by Rural Press Club of Queensland
Finalists:
Kathleen Skene, Herbert River Express, “Sugar Prices Soar”
Tracy Bange, Herbert River Express, Body of Work
MaryLou Costa, Herbert River Express, Body of Work
Winner: MaryLou Costa, Herbert River Express, Body of Work
Judges’ comments:
Working in the heart of the far north sugar cane growing region, MaryLou Costa’s body of work demonstrates the importance of the media’s role in supporting and informing local communities. Her research skills and commitment to giving many voices a chance to be heard impressed the judging panel. The panel noted that although agriculture is a vital element of the Queensland economy and many regional media outlets provide consistent coverage, this category was very poorly supported in the Queensland Media Awards.
Excellence in Rural Journalism (All Media) – Sponsored by Rural Press Club of Queensland
Finalists:
Tracy Bange, Herbert River Express, Body of Work
Sally Sara, ABC-TV’s Landline, “After The Storm”
Kathleen Skene, Herbert River Express, Body of Work
Winner: Sally Sara, ABC-TV’s Landline “After The Storm”
Judges’ comments:
Sally Sara’s experience as an accomplished journalist and her extraordinary ability to tell the story proved irresistible to the judging panel. The devastating effect of the category four cyclone named “Larry” was one of the biggest national stories this year. Sally Sara was among the many Queensland journalists who travelled to the region and brought the unfolding story to the world. In this Landline edition, Sally was among the first to explore the lasting implications for the local farming industries. Long before we were paying $18 a kilo for bananas, Sally stood in the battered plantations and showed us why. But more than that, she showed us what the big storm up north meant for the thousands of farmers, pickers and processors and their families.
Best TV News Report (Television & Radio, Hinchliffe Regional & Suburban Awards) – Sponsored by APN News & Media
Finalists:
Jessica Ross, WIN News Sunshine Coast, “Traveston Dam Anger”
Belinda Sanders, ABC-TV News, “Recycling Referendum”
Rebecca Nardi, Seven News Sunshine Coast, “Need for Speed”
Winner: Rebecca Nardi, Seven News Sunshine Coast, “Need for Speed”
Judges’ comments:
Rebecca Nardi was not content to cover a routine court appearance by a speeding hoon. After being tipped off about a dynamite video that was part of the prosecution’s brief, she made a formal application for its release and proceeded to develop the story into a national headline-grabber. The footage showed the hoon filming himself driving at 180 kilometres an hour while weaving through traffic, prompting another exclusive – his mother’s interview with Rebecca. The story generated enormous public interest about dangerous driving and only came about because of her determination to flesh out information that would otherwise have been buried.
Best Editorial Photograph (Newspapers, Hinchliffe Regional & Suburban Awards) – Sponsored by Foster’s Group
Finalists:
David Clark, Gold Coast Bulletin, “How much Fun Is This?”
Luke Marsden, The Morning Bulletin (Rockhampton), “Life in Woori”
Evan Morgan, Townsville Bulletin, “Hung in the Air”
Winner: David Clark, Gold Coast Bulletin, “How much Fun Is This?”
Judges’ comments:
From an impressive range of entries the judges were struck by the energy and artistic merit in Clarks’ shot of a body-boarder free falling into violent churning surf at Currumbin. David chanced on the scene after going to Currumbin late in the afternoon to prepare for the following day’s Anzac Day dawn service. He had limited time in fading light to set up and spot his target. The fate of the body-boarder is unknown.
Best Feature (Newspapers, Hinchliffe Regional & Suburban Awards) – Sponsored by Kingfisher Bay Resort & Village
Finalists:
Kate McIntosh, The Toowoomba Chronicle, “The Big Dry”
Kate McIntosh, The Toowoomba Chronicle, “Long Way Home”
Rae Wilson & Rebecca Marshall, Sunshine Coast Daily, “Fringes Of Paradise”
Winner: Rae Wilson & Rebecca Marshall, Sunshine Coast Daily, “Fringes Of Paradise”
Judges’ comments:
This story made for a compelling read. Rae Wilson painted a bleak picture of life in Sunshine Coast caravan parks using excellent interviews with residents to illustrate her story. Yet her piece was far from one-dimensional. In this well-researched story, she looked into the reasons behind park violence and even revealed an upside: investigating how another caravan park had turned around its shady image.
Best News Report (Newspapers, Hinchliffe Regional & Suburban Awards) – Sponsored by Queensland Rail
Finalists:
Rebecca Marshall, Sunshine Coast Daily, “US Navy”
Carolyn Tucker, Sunshine Coast Daily, “Hospital Fiasco”
Fiona Hamilton, Gold Coast Bulletin, “Badlands”
Winner: Carolyn Tucker, Sunshine Coast Daily, “Hospital Fiasco”
Judges’ comments:
In this extremely well written collection of articles, Carolyn Tucker exposed the wheeling and dealing behind an expensive and important piece of public infrastructure. This thoroughly researched piece had major political implications: helping to spark a CMC investigation into former Health Minister Gordon Nuttall which in turn played a role in his decision not to contest the recent state election. Carolyn’s piece was the stand out entry in this category.
Best Illustration/Graphic (Newspapers) – Sponsored by JUST Super
Finalists:
Tony Bela, The Courier-Mail, “Beaconsfield Rescue”
Joanne Brooker, The Walkley Magazine, “Capote – In Cold Blood”
Tristan Riguet, Stradbroke Island News, “Slow Road Sign”
Winner: Tony Bela, The Courier-Mail, “Beaconsfield Rescue”
Judges’ comments:
In his three-dimensional graphic Tony Bela depicted the scenes beneath the Beaconsfield mine in Tasmania in a way that no words could adequately describe. It was the first real insight into the difficulties of the rescue operation and how it would need to progress to free the two miners. Tony highlighted the scenes: the trapped miners in a cage among boulders and rubble; the rescuers using a small pipe to convey food and messages; and the heavy equipment of those trying to clear a path to the men. As the rescue progressed and more details of the predicament were revealed, the fundamentals as shown in this illustration were shown to be accurate.
Best Cartoon (Newspapers) – Sponsored by Seven News
Finalists:
Sean Leahy, The Courier-Mail, “Whoopsie Daisy”
Joanne Brooker, The Walkley Magazine, “Going The Biff With Kerry”
Joanne Brooker, The Walkley Magazine, “Glamour”
Winner: Joanne Brooker, The Walkley Magazine, “Going The Biff With Kerry”
Judges’ comments:
Joanne Brooker’s cartoon “Going The Biff With Kerry” captured the essence of the media magnate in a classic fighting stance. Executives who dared to defy the man were depicted as squashed bugs in his boxing gloves. Anyone who has worked with Packer would recognise the glint in his narrowed eyes.
The illustration by Brooker, a freelance illustrator, was a perfect match for the Gary Scully story that went with it.
Best Three Headlines (Newspapers) – Sponsored by Seven News
Finalists:
Geoff Shearer, The Courier-Mail, “Nice try, but no cigar, after Bill tried to play ‘round of golf”, “Oh, tie a yellow ribbon, ‘round that old joke me” and “First it was to the Right, now she’s listing again”.
Steele Tallon, The Sunday Mail, “Short But Sweet”, “Cruise Control”, “121 not out” and “Lives On The Line”.
Winner: Geoff Shearer, The Courier-Mail, “Nice try, but no cigar, after Bill tried to play ‘round of golf”, “Oh, tie a yellow ribbon, ‘round that old joke tree” and “First it was to the Right, now she’s listing again”
Judges’ comments:
Geoff Shearer showed the value of using great headlines to complement a picture and entice the readers deeper into the page. His headline on Pauline Hanson showed knowledge of political history, which when read in conjunction with the photo told the whole story. In his other two submissions, Geoff’s use of subtle twists on well-known themes worked well. The judges lamented the fact that this was the only award open to sub-editors and it was restricted purely to headlines with no avenue open to judge the craft of either subbing copy, or designing pages.
Best Editorial Photograph (Newspapers) – Sponsored by Ten News
Finalists
David Kelly, The Courier-Mail, “Best in Show”
Rob Maccoll, The Courier-Mail, “Nothing Sticks”
Brian Cassey, The Courier-Mail, “Indefatigable”
Winner: Rob Maccoll, The Courier-Mail, “Nothing Sticks”
Judges’ comments:
In capturing the Premier walking through the mud and then wiping it off his shoes, the photographer was able to tell a much broader story. The image encapsulated the story of a Premier who, despite significant crisis within his government, was able to capture the moment, and then the sequence. It was both newsworthy and symbolic. In what many consider to have been a stage-managed election campaign, it captured an unguarded moment with precision and humour. Thus the photograph was the story.
Best Sports Report (Newspapers) – Sponsored by Ten News
Finalists:
Bernie Pramberg & Bart Sinclair, The Courier-Mail, “Makybe Diva”
Andrew Hamilton, The Courier-Mail, “Big Name Exodus From Lions”
David Lems, The Queensland Times, ”Lovely Emotion”
Winner: Andrew Hamilton, The Courier-Mail, “Big Name Exodus From Lions”
Judges’ comments:
The story of Akermanis’ split from the Lions dominated the second half of the AFL season largely due to the stories broken by Andrew Hamilton. His use of contacts within the Club allowed him to set the agenda and ultimately contributed to the demise of the once great “Aker”.
Best Feature Article (Newspapers) – Sponsored by The University of Queensland
Finalists:
Leisa Scott, The Courier-Mail, “Stolen Memories”
Jamie Walker, The Courier-Mail, “ The Caroline de Costa Profile”
Margaret Wenham, The Courier-Mail, “ Helpless In The System”
Winner: Margaret Wenham, The Courier-Mail, “Helpless In The System”
Judges’ comments:
This was an extremely strong field. The judges noted that the brilliant entries came from the old Courier-Mail broadsheet or the freshly born Q Weekend. Margaret Wenham’s piece delved behind closed doors to reveal deep flaws in the social justice system. Her article ultimately led to a Disability Services Queensland review.
Best News Report (Newspapers) – Sponsored by The University of Queensland
Finalists:
Tonia Morton, Michelle Robinson & Cath Fouracre, Caboolture News, “Save Our Hospital”
Jason Gregory, The Courier-Mail, “Chemical Neglect”
Michael McKenna & Tony Koch, The Australian, “Merger Malfunction”
Winner: Jason Gregory, The Courier-Mail, “Chemical Neglect”
Judges’ comments:
In breaking the story about the chemical waste from the industry in the Narangba area, Jason Gregory showed a great deal of persistence, initiative and courage. It required extensive research using primary sources, leaked government material and court documents. The story, although complicated because of the scale of the problem and the scientific elements, was well told.
Its public impact was considerable. A number of the businesses were identified for removal. Residents began legal action, and council and state planning instruments were under the spotlight. The coverage articulated the public policy issues while also clearly showing the strong human impact. The entry encapsulated what a good news story should be about. Good research, which uncovered important information told in a compelling and engaging way.
Best News Camera Work (Television & Radio) – Sponsored by Quest Community Newspapers
Finalists:
Michael Augustus & Mark Chapman, Ten News, “Shooting”
Craig Myers, NBN Television, “Factory Fire”
Winner: Michael Augustus and Mark Chapman, Ten News, “Shooting”
Judges’ comments:
This story was obviously shot under difficult circumstances, given the presence of police, the location and time of day. It was shot well and had great newsworthy shots, for example an injured police officer being tended to by a colleague. It would have been a difficult location to film and could have been dangerous to the crew. Regardless, the Camera Operator had many great shots that told a story with compassion to the injured police officer. There were good telling shots of the police forensic team, on scene action, as well as being well lit. This entry was of a high standard.
Best Cinematography (Television & Radio) – Sponsored by Quest Community Newspapers
No finalists were listed in this category.
Winner: John Varga, Seven News, “Mary Valley Report”
Judges’ comments:
This video was chosen as the winner because of its high quality camera work, on a story that would have otherwise been picture poor. The Camera Operator had well executed shots, a nice use of wide-angle lens, good frame compositions and a good use of soft light and back light. This entry was a high standard for News Cinematography and is a well-deserved winner.
Best Radio News Report (Television & Radio) – Sponsored by Griffith University
Finalists:
Kellie Riordan, 612 ABC Brisbane, “Criminals or Patients”
Conor Duffy, ABC Radio, “Cyclone Larry”
Darren Roberts, 4BC/4BH, “Ministerial Reshuffle”
Winner: Kellie Riordan, 612 ABC Brisbane, “ Criminals or Patients”
Judges’ comments:
In a gripping interview with a woman who had been charged with the attempted murder of a difficult family member, Kellie Riordan explored the difficult themes about mental health. The poignant interview laid bare the torment of mentally ill offenders caught between the criminal justice system and psychiatric institutions. It came hard on the heels of the most recent public frenzy over the day release of a notorious mentally ill offender, Claude Gabriel. The interview presented another compelling side in a debate that is often politicised.
Best Radio Current Affairs or Public Interest Program (Television & Radio) – Sponsored by Griffith University
Finalists:
Conor Duffy, ABC Radio, “Mt Mulligan”
Antony Funnell, ABC Radio National, “Financial Abuse of The Elderly”
Jeff Waters, ABC Radio’s PM, “Palm Island Housing”
Winner:
Jeff Waters, ABC Radio’s PM, “Palm Island Housing”
Judges’ comments:
Jeff waters took the initiative and visited Palm Island to tell a story no other electronic media, nor indeed no other media had been willing to tell. Jeff tried to look beyond Palm Island’s violent reputation to attempt to understand the heart of the community’s many problems. Being on the island, rather than covering the issue over the phone, he connected with his interviewees and the natural sound used in this piece made this story compelling. Jeff’s passion for indigenous issues shined through in this piece.
Best TV or Radio Sports Report (Television & Radio) – Sponsored by The Courier-Mail /The Sunday Mail
There were no finalists in this category.
Winner: Claire Forster, Kirstin Murray, Kristine Taylor, Roger Carter and Angela Trabucco, ABC-TV’s Australian Story, “ A Wealth Of Friends”
Judges’ comments:
The judges were extremely disappointed that in the biggest sporting nation, in a Commonwealth Games year, only one entry was received in this category.
However, they believed that the Australian Story entry was a worthy winner. A wealth of friends uncovered one of Australia’s lesser-known sporting greats and how his friendship with a wealthy benefactor is now underwriting Queensland’s medical research bodies.
Best TV Documentary or Feature (Television & Radio) – Sponsored by The Courier-Mail/The Sunday Mail
Finalists:
Mark Willacy, ABC-TV’s Foreign Correspondent, “Jerusalem Syndrome”
Kirstin Murray & Angela Trabucco, ABC-TV’s Australian Story, “The Lost Boy”
Peter Doherty, Seven Network, “Cyclone Larry”
Joint winners: Kirstin Murray & Angela Trabucco, ABC-TV’s Australian Story, “The Lost Boy” and Peter Doherty, Seven Network, “Cyclone Larry”
Judges’ comments:
In a very strong field of entries two shining lights emerged: Australian Story’s revealing insight into footballer Ian Roberts and the Seven News Documentary after Cyclone Larry. In the Australian Story, Ian Roberts shocked even those closest to him when he revealed his relationship with a paedophile victim who ended up buried in a shallow grave. Seven News’s Cyclone Larry documentary went beyond the story relating to the immediate devastation caused by Larry to examine the wider issues of cyclones in Queensland.
Best TV Current Affairs Over 10 Minutes (Television & Radio) – Sponsored by The Courier-Mail/The Sunday Mail
Finalists:
Matt Wordsworth, ABC-TV’s Stateline, “Police Vests”
Claire Forster, Kirstin Murray, Kristine Taylor, Roger Carter & Angela Trabucco, ABC-TV’s Australian Story, “The Mourning After”
Jeff Waters, ABC-TV’s Stateline, “Palm Anniversary”
Winner: Claire Forster, Kirstin Murray, Kristine Taylor, Roger Carter & Angela Trabucco, ABC-TV’s Australian Story, “The Mourning After”
Judges’ comments:
Australian Story broke the Brimble story, which has continued to dominate headlines. Until this program, few could have recognised the name or been aware of the shortcomings of the investigation that followed her death. It was emotional and compelling viewing.
Best Current Affairs Under 10 Minutes (Television & Radio) – Sponsored by QUT Creative Industries
Finalists:
Jeff Waters, ABC-TV’s Stateline, “Palm Island Housing”
Jenny Woodward, ABC-TV’s Stateline, “Wild Weather”
Commended: Jenny Woodward, ABC-TV’s Stateline, “Wild Weather”
Winner: Jeff Waters, ABC-TV’s Stateline, “Palm Island Housing”
Judges’ comments:
An Insightful tale of poverty in an Australian town, this Stateline report by Jeff Waters continues the great ABC tradition of Today Tonight and Four Corners in telling a story that politicians and bureaucrats would prefer remained untold. Yet it does so using the latest digital storytelling technologies. In one sense it is an all too familiar story – geographic isolation, third world living standards, and bureaucratic culpability. In another sense it is a very timely story, which explains the Palm Island riots that followed the death of an indigenous person in custody, the Coroner’s Report into which was released the day entries were judged.
Best TV News Report (Television & Radio) – Sponsored by QUT Creative Industries
Finalists:
Jeff Waters, ABC-TV News, “Papuan Exiles”
Brett Clappis, Ten News, “Cyclone Larry”
Seven News Team, “Cyclone Larry”
Winner: Brett Clappis, Ten News, “Cyclone Larry”
Judges’ comments:
Coverage of Cyclone Larry – one of the biggest stories of 2006 – was outstanding by all the networks. What set Brett Clappis’ report apart was that he was the only reporter to file from Innisfail during the cyclone. His coverage and that of his Camera Operator allowed Queenslanders too see the devastation of Larry first hand.
Best Online/Wire Report (All Media) – Sponsored by Queenslanders
Finalists:
Chris Griffith & Daniel Hammond, The Courier-Mail, “Multimedia Investigations”
Cameron Atfield, Neil Hickey, Graeme Parks, Chris Griffith, Neale Maynard, Cindy Lord, Paula Doneman & Terry O’Connor, The Courier-Mail, “Steve Irwin Dead”
Australian Associated Press Team, “The Day the Croc Hunter Died”
Winner: Chris Griffith & Daniel Hammond, The Courier-Mail, “Multimedia Investigations”
Judges’ comments:
The winner of Best Online/Wire Report was distinguished in this category by the comprehensive use of technology in supporting the story. The winning report was extensively researched, held newsworthiness, public interest and impact while upholding the Code of Ethics. The panel was impressed by the innovative use of all available technology used to illustrate the story and allow the reader access to a diverse range of supporting references.
Best Business/Property Report (All Media) – Sponsored by O’Neill Scott & Associates Accountants
Finalists:
Kathleen Skene, Herbert River Express, “Coastal Squeeze”
John McCarthy, The Courier-Mail, “Point of No Return”
Liam Walsh, The Courier-Mail, “ The Tunnel Float”
Winner: Liam Walsh, The Courier -Mail, “ The Tunnel Float”
Judges’ comments:
Instead of swallowing the official line about the value of an upcoming float of Queensland’s newest public company, Liam Walsh tunnelled into the true story. He discovered that some of the public statements being released by the RiverCity Motorway Group omitted relevant information that the public had a right to know. Facts including a discrepancy in traffic volume estimates, which would have affected revenues and the benefits to investors, were exposed.
Best Comment, Analysis, Opinion & Critique (All Media) – Sponsored by Three Plus
Finalists:
Tony Koch, The Australian, Body of Work
Dennis Atkins, The Courier-Mail, “Party Games”
Paul Syvret, The Courier-Mail, “Tuesday View”
Joint Winners: Dennis Atkins, The Courier-Mail, “Party Games” and
Paul Syvret, The Courier-Mail, “Tuesday View”
Judges’ comments:
Both winners represent two different styles, equally insightful, revelatory and analytical. Dennis Atkins’ Party Games columns show considerable depth of political knowledge, and diverse and reliable sources. His political memory shows through in his writing, and his ability to see through divergent political manoeuvres. Paul Syvret’s work shows strength of opinion over a diverse range of topics. He has an ability to clearly articulate a complex issue and make it engaging to the broader readership. His frequent use of humour and analogy delivers the reader incisive and thought-provoking public analysis.
Best Investigative Report (All Media) – Sponsored by Shine Lawyers
Finalists:
Matt Wordsworth, ABC-TV’s Stateline & News, “Police Vests”
Amanda Paterson & Lisa Ryan, Channel Nine’s A Current Affair, “Catching Casanova”
Tony Koch, The Australian, “Parliament’s Antiques Fall Into Truck”
Winner: Amanda Paterson & Lisa Ryan, Channel Nine’s A Current Affair, “Catching Casanova”
Judges’ comments:
In an extremely tough category, the judges decided that a riveting campaign about a serial fraudster and his many victims deserved the honours. The exposure of Ben Marks took a massive behind-the-scenes effort. In the face of apathy from Queensland police, Amanda Paterson and Lisa Ryan unearthed facts about his unlawful modus operandi that eventually forced the police to act. The ACA team persuaded more than 30 women who had been conned to tell their humiliating stories about rip-offs totalling hundreds of thousands of dollars. The investigations outed Marks for purporting to be a police officer, a dog handler, a vet, a doctor, a helicopter rescuer and a Brisbane Bronco. The ACA team’s persistence put Marks out of business in two states. It was a story that made you laugh and cringe. It was doggedly pursued, well told, and capped with drama.
Most Outstanding Contribution to Journalism (All Media) – Sponsored by Virgin Blue
Winner: Peter Morley, The Courier-Mail
Most Outstanding Journalism Student (all media)
Metropolitan Winner: Angela Banbury, JSchool College, body of work
Kevin O’Donoghue Award for Best Cadet or J1 Journalist (all media)
Jason Gregory, The Courier-Mail, Body of work
Best Coverage of Children’s or Young People’s Issues (all media)
Kristine Taylor (producer) and Roger Carter (editor), ABC-TV’s Australian Story, “Only in America”
Best Road Safety Awareness Report (All Media)
Phil Willmington, National Nine News, “Safe Drivers”
Multicultural Media Award (All Media)
Jeff Waters, ABC-TV News, “Buddha’s Birthday”
Excellence in Rural Journalism (All Media)
Joanne Shoebridge, ABC-TV’s Landline, “The Blame Game”
Excellence in Agribusiness Reporting (All Media)
Kathleen Skene, Herbert River Express, Body of work
Best Coverage of Research & Technology (All Media)
Ian Townsend, ABC Radio National, “Sick Sperm Syndrome”
Freelance Journalism Award (All Media)
Brian Cassey, “Tsunami Photographic Essay”
Best Radio Report (Electronic Media, Hinchliffe R&S Awards)
Paula Tapiolas, ABC Radio, Townsville, “Palm Riot”
Best News Report (Electronic Media, Hinchliffe R&S Awards)
Samille Muirhead, Seven Queensland, “Terror Tape”
Best Editorial Photograph (Print Media, Hinchliffe R&S Awards)
Evan Morgan, Townsville Bulletin, “Calling the Cows”
Best Feature (Print Media, Hinchliffe R&S Awards)
Fiona Hamilton, Gold Coast Bulletin, “Love Hurts: The Love Letters Scandal”
Best News Report (Print Media, Hinchliffe R&S Awards)
Tenille Bonoguore, Sunshine Coast Daily, “Fatal Flaw: Our Deadly Highway”
Best Cartoon (Print Media)
Brett Lethbridge, The Courier-Mail, “Monster Problem”
Best Illustration/Graphic (Print Media)
Tony Bela, The Courier-Mail, “Formula 1 Grand Prix Car”
Best Three Headlines (Print Media)
Geoff Shearer, The Courier-Mail, “Retirement’s A Fish Called Wander”, “Tough Talker’s Day Was Maiden Heaven” & “Life’s a Cabernet Old Chum”
Best Editorial Photograph (Print Media)
Rob Maccoll, The Courier-Mail, “Tsunami Retrieval”
Best Sports Report (Print Media)
Paul Malone, The Courier-Mail, “Drug Stance Could Cost Sports Millions”
Best Feature (Print Media)
Jamie Walker, The Courier-Mail, “Thai Tsunami”
Best News Report (Print Media)
Hedley Thomas, The Courier-Mail, “Why Didn’t They Check?”
Best Cinematography (Electronic Media)
Glen Armstrong, Ten News, “Rocky”
Best Online/Wire Report (Electronic Media)
David O’Sullivan/News Online Team, ABC News Online, “London Bombings”
Best Radio Current Affairs or Public Interest Program (Electronic Media)
Paul Barclay, ABC Radio National, “Bundaberg’s Dr Death”
Best Sports Report (Electronic Media)
Claire Forster (producer), Kristine Taylor (researcher) and Angela Trabucco (editor), ABC-TV’s Australian Story, “The Comeback Kid”
Best Documentary or Feature (Electronic Media)
Caitlin Shea, ABC-TV’s Australian Story, “Good Morning Mr Sarra”
Best Current Affairs (Electronic Media)
Jeff Waters, ABC-TV’s Stateline, “Care Abuse”
Best News Report (Electronic Media)
Seven News Team, “Palm Island Riot”
Best Business/Property Report (all media)
Liam Walsh, The Courier-Mail, “Sam’s in Dispute over Two Outlets/Sam’s Woes Worsen”
Best Comment, Analysis, Opinion & Critique (all media)
Sean Parnell, The Australian, “The Rise and Fall of Tony Morris, QC”
Best Investigative Report (All Media)
Hedley Thomas, The Courier-Mail, “Exposing a Sick System”
Most Outstanding Contribution to Journalism (all media)
Bob Johnston, ABC News Online
Most Outstanding Journalism Student – All Media
Regional University: Bernie Matthews, University of Southern Queensland, The Crime and Prison Movie Genre Showcase Only Rare True Success
Metropolitan University: Jessica Ross, QUT, Portfolio of work
Kevin O’Donoghue Award for Best Cadet or J1 Journalist – All Media
Nicola McDougall, The Chronicle (Toowoomba), Body of work
Best Coverage of Children’s or Young People’s Issues – All Media
Kellie Riordan, ABC Radio’s Triple J Hack Program, Young Voters and Kill TV Councillor
Best Road Safety Awareness Report – All Media
Craig Johnstone, The Courier-Mail, Southeast’s Road to Ruin
Best Coverage of Disability Issues – All Media
Julian Kennedy, Quest Newspapers’ Northern Times and Caboolture Shire Herald, Children Caged and various other reports on the Care organisation
Multicultural Media Award – All Media
David Kelly & Catriona Mathewson, The Courier-Mail, Happy Mother’s Day
Best Coverage of Indigenous Affairs – All Media
Tony Koch, News Ltd (The Courier-Mail), Mothers Demand Action to Stop Brutal Cycle of Abuse, and Winegate
Best Coverage of Research & Technology – All Media
Jenny Woodward, ABC-TV’s Stateline, The Climate Gamble
Freelance Journalism Award – All Media
Petrina Zaphir, Panda Video/Ten News, Dead Chooks, Chook Charges and Chook Killers
Excellence in Agribusiness Reporting – All Media
Nine News Team, Nine Network, Citrus Canker
Excellence in Rural Journalism – All Media
Peter Lewis, ABC-TV’s Landline, Risky Business – Australia’s Biosecurity Arrangements Challenged
Best Radio Report – Electronic Media, Hinchliffe Regional and Suburban Awards
Brett Judge, ABC Radio News Townsville, Kitten Killers
Best News Report – Electronic Media, Hinchliffe Regional and Suburban Awards
Tamara Henderson, Seven Network Sunshine Coast, Baby Bob Feeds Croc
Best Editorial Photograph – Print Media, Hinchliffe Regional and Suburban Awards
Jodie Richter, Queensland Times, Snuffeluffagus
Best Feature/Colour Article – Print Media, Hinchliffe Regional and Suburban Awards
Karla Pincott, Townsville Bulletin, Paying the Price
Best News Report – Print Media, Hinchliffe Regional and Suburban Awards
Fiona Hamilton, Gold Coast Bulletin, Shonky Kickbacks Rule Surfers
Best Cartoon – Print Media
Highly commended: Sean Leahy, The Courier-Mail, Power Point Pete
Best Editorial Photograph – Print Media
Bruce Long, The Courier-Mail, Kyle Walks Again
Best Three Headlines – Print Media
Ben Vernon, Townsville Bulletin, Oil Crisis To Get Crude, Gored Blimey! He’s Copped a Bum Steer, and Crack Shot
Best Sports Report – Print Media
Mike Colman, The Courier-Mail, Two Weeks in August
Best Feature/Colour Article – Print Media
Hedley Thomas, The Courier-Mail, A Life Cut Short
Best News Report – Print Media
Steven Wardill & Rosemary Odgers, The Courier-Mail, Queensland’s Summer Power Crisis – Body of work
Best Online/News Wire Report – Electronic Media
Bernie Matthews, Online Opinion, Abuse Within Prisons Makes Prisoners More Violent Upon Release
Best Radio Report – Electronic Media
Jo-Anne Youngleson, ABC Radio News, Forde Inquiry – Five Years On
Best Cinematography – Electronic Media
Mark Michalek & Norm Wakerley, Seven Network Brisbane, Little Boy Lost
Best Documentary or Feature – Electronic Media
Pip Courtney, ABC-TV’s Landline, Chilla Seeney – The Old Master
Best Sports Report – Electronic Media
Michael Lund, ABC Radio, Pitch Invasion
Best News Report – Electronic Media
David Salmon, Seven Network Brisbane, Baby Bob’s Crocodile Adventure
Best Current Affairs – Electronic Media
Amanda Patterson & Lisa Ryan, Nine Network’s A Current Affair, Keith Lloyd
Best Business/Property Report – All Media
Pip Courtney, ABC-TV’s Landline, Venture Capital – A Capital Idea
Best Commentary, Analysis, Opinion & Critique – All Media
Craig Johnstone, The Courier-Mail, Power Plays
Best Investigative Report – All Media
Amanda Patterson & Lisa Ryan, Nine Network’s A Current Affair, Keith Lloyd
Most Outstanding Contribution to Journalism
Scott McKinlay, Radio 4BC Brisbane
Most Outstanding Journalism Student
Metropolitan university – Katrina Witham, University of Queensland, body of work
Regional university – Abraham Gubler, Griffith University Gold Coast Campus, “The true story of how Griffith got a medical school”
Kevin O’Donoghue Award for Best Cadet or J1 Journalist (all media)
Joel Dullroy, The Courier-Mail
Best Coverage of Children’s or Young People’s Issues (all media)
The Ten News team, “Schoolies – the inside story”
Best Road Safety Awareness Report (all media)
Kylie Bartholomew, Gladstone Observer, “Drink rite”
Multicultural Media Award (all media)
Jo-Anne Youngleson, ABC-TV’s Stateline, “Sea cucumber venture”
Best Coverage of Research & Technology (all media)
Gerald Tooth, ABC Radio National, “Chuck Feeney: Giving while living”
Best News Wire/Online Report (Electronic Media)
Ainsley Pavey, AAP, Pauline Hanson electoral fraud trial coverage
Excellence in Rural Journalism (all media)
Michael Thomson, Qld Country Life, body of work on land clearing
Best News Report (Hinchliffe R&S Awards, Electronic Media)
Petrina Zaphir and Damian Leschke, Ten News, coverage of the Seaworld sharks
Best Editorial Photograph (Hinchliffe R&S Awards, Print Media)
Jodie Richter, The Queensland Times, “Soldier”
Best Feature/Colour Article (Hinchliffe R&S Awards, Print Media)
Simon Cameron, The Cairns Post, “Balancing the justice scales”
Best News Report (Hinchliffe R&S Awards, Print Media)
Ellen Quinn, The Queensland Times, “Under our noses”
Best Editorial Artwork/Cartoon (Print Media)
Brett Lethbridge, The Courier-Mail, “Signs of life”
Best Editorial Photograph (Print Media)
Wayne Jones, Gold Coast Bulletin, “Indy”
Best Three Headlines (Print Media)
Paul Osborne, AAP, “Qld police beats cut robbery under Brahms”, “Coffee grounds for protest”, and “Talon scout in shock and awe campaign”
Best Radio Report (Electronic Media)
Louise Willis, ABC Radio’s AM, “The downfall of a Governor General” series of reports
Best Cinematography (Electronic Media)
John Bean, ABC-TV’s Australian Story, “With this ring”
Best Documentary or Feature (Electronic Media)
Claire Forster, ABC-TV’s Australian Story, “Against the tide”
Best News Report (Electronic Media)
Neil Warren, Channel Seven, “Spike’s tribute”
Best Current Affairs (Electronic Media)
Chris Allen, Channel Seven’s Today Tonight, “Bar drugs”
Best Sports Report (Print Media)
Mike Colman, The Courier-Mail, “Day at the races”
Best Feature/Colour Article (Print Media)
Hedley Thomas, The Courier-Mail, “Court in crisis”
Best News Report (Print Media)
The Courier-Mail team “Back from the dead: The Natasha Ryan story”
Best Business/Property Report (all media)
John McCarthy, The Courier-Mail, “Profit prophet” and “Dream weavers”
and
Peter Lewis, ABC-TV’s Landline, “Brand and deliver”
Best Commentary, Analysis, Opinion & Critique (all media)
Craig Johnstone, The Courier-Mail, “Greenspace”
Best Investigative Report (all media)
Tony Koch and Kristen Smith, The Courier-Mail, “Funny business”
Most Outstanding Contribution to Journalism (all media)
Spencer Jolly, Nine Network
Best News Report
Amanda Gearing, The Courier-Mail, “Suffer The Children”.
Best Feature Article – Print Media – Hinchcliffe R&S Awards
Leanne Edminstone, Sunshine Coast Daily, “Why Men Rape”.
Kevin O’Donoghue Award for Best Cadet or J1 Journalist
Bercause of the quality of entries, the judges felt the need to divide this into two categories, print and electronic.
Print: Tanya Moore, APN.
Highly Commended: Carrissa Thompson, The Cairns Post.
Electronic Media: Lauren Harte, ABC TV
Highly Commended:Gillian Gout, ABC TV
Best Opinion, Commentary, Analysis
Margaret Wenham, The Courier-Mail
Best On-line Report
Katie Franklin, ABC News Online
Multicultural Media Award
Rosalind Pulley, The Cairns Post
Hinchliffe R&S Awards
Electronic Media Section – Best News/Current Affairs
Petrina Zaphir and Damian Lescke, Network Ten, “Shark Menace”
Electronic Media Best Current Affairs
A Current Affair, Nine Network, “Drug Limos”
Best coverage of Research and Technology (all media)
Craig Johnstone, The Courier-Mail, “Growth Industry”
Best Investigative Report (all media)
Hedley Thomas, The Courier-Mail, “A Law Unto Themselves”
Most Outstanding Journalist Student
Fiona Hamilton, Queensland Independent and The Courier-Mail, various stories
Excellence in Rural Journalism – for body of work (all media)
Mark Phelps, Queensland Country Life, “How to Kill a Community”
Highly Commended: Rebecca Winter, Queensland Country Life, “CMG Saga”
and
Peter Lewis, ABC TV Landline, Selection of stories broadcast over a year
Indigenous Affairs Award (all media)
Leisa Scott, The Weekend Australian, “Dark Secrets, White Lies”
Highly Commended: John van Tiggelen, Sydney Morning Herald, “White Fella Dreaming”
and
Rosalind Pulley, The Cairns Post, body of work
Best News Report – Electronic Media
John Flynn, Network Ten, “Coastguard Drama”
Highly Commended: Tony Fabris, Network Ten, “Paint Sniffers” (series)
Best Three Headlines – Print Media
Wayne Glindemann, The Gold Coast Bulletin, Lew/Fox etc
Comment: The three headlines were snappy plays on words which captured the essence of each of the stories. These headlines were crafted under the pressure of tight deadlines.
Best Editorial Artwork/Cartoon – Print Media
Brett Lethbridge, The Courier-Mail, “More than Words”
Best News Report – Print Media – Hinchliffe R&S Awards
Leanne Edmistone, Sunshine Coast News, “Sex for Food”
Best Editorial Photograph – Print Media – Hinchliffe R&S Awards
John Houldsworth, Tweed Heads Daily, “You’ve got Mail”
Best Sports Report.
Neil Breen, The Courier-Mail, Ben Tune drug cover-up
Best Editorial Photograph, Print Media.
Patrick Hamilton
Highly Recommended: Bruce Long and Jodie Richter
Best Cinematography
Steve O Ferral, Brid Mclennan, Network Ten, “The landing of round the world balloonist”
Best Business /Property Report
John McCarthy, The Courier-Mail, “Oil shale’s ill wind”
Best Radio Report
Peter Mageros, “Lions Hollingworth”
Best feature article – print media.
Chris Griffith
Most Outstanding Journalism Student – sponsored by the Queensland Press Gallery
1. Jason Gregory (University of Queensland) – Various Articles
2. Catherine Prowse (James Cook University) – “Waste Rock Has Volcanic Effect On Crop Soils”
Kevin O’Donoghue Award for Best Cadet or Grade 1 Journalist in Print, Television, Radio or Online/Wire Service – sponsored by James Cook University
Simon Lomax (The Courier-Mail) – “You Bet Your Life”
Best Online Report – sponsored by James Cook University
Brett Bugg (ABC Online News) – “A Bugg’s Eye View”
Indigenous Affairs Award (All Media) – sponsored by the Queensland Government Department of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Policy
Lisa Millar (ABC-TV) – “Family Violence”
Multicultural Media Award – Sponsored by Multicultural Affairs Queensland
Ian Watson (4AAA) – “Diversity In Focus”
Hinchliffe Awards for excellence in regional, rural and suburban journalism Best Editorial Photograph (Print) – sponsored by Media Credit Union Qld
David Clark (Gold Coast Bulletin) – “Home Invasion”
Hinchliffe Awards for excellence in regional, rural and suburban journalism Best News Story / Current Affairs (Electronic) – sponsored by Media Credit Union Qld
Paul Cochrane (Seven Queensland) – “Agnes Double Drowning” & “Nine-Year-Old Boy Found”
Hinchliffe Awards for excellence in regional, rural and suburban journalism Best News Story (Print) – sponsored by Carlton and United Breweries
Murray Hubbard (Gold Coast Sun) – “Investor Fury”
Hinchliffe Awards for excellence in regional, rural and suburban journalism Best Feature (Print) – sponsored by Carlton and United Breweries
Lisa Crawford (Quest Newspapers) – “Thieves Sorry”
Best Editorial Artwork/Cartoon (Print) – sponsored by Kingfisher Bay Resort and Village
Vanessa Hunter (The Courier-Mail) – “Sudden Death”
Best Editorial Photograph (Print) – sponsored by Kingfisher Bay Resort and Village
Rob Maccoll (The Courier-Mail) – “Silent Vigil”
Best Three Headlines (Print) – sponsored by University of Queensland
Ian Oliver (Cairns Post) – “Tony – the Blair Witch Project”, “Disney in the Pooh” & “Santa town is all write”
Best Feature (Print) – sponsored by University of Queensland
Margaret Wenham (The Courier-Mail) – “You Be The Judge”
Best Radio Report (Electronic) – sponsored by Queensland University of Technology
Justine Kerr & Jessica van Vonderen (ABC Wide Bay) – “Dingoes on Fraser Island: At What Risk?”
Best Current Affairs (Electronic) – sponsored by Queensland University of Technology
David Margan (A Current Affair – Nine Network) – “Duty Free” & “Maccas”
Best Business/Property Report (All Media) – sponsored by Queensland Mining Council
Paul Syvret (The Bulletin magazine) – “Our Cheating Heart”
Best Commentary, Analysis, Opinion and Critique (All Media) – sponsored by Shine Roche McGowan
Matthew Franklin (The Courier-Mail) – Various Articles
Best Sports Report (All Media) ) – sponsored by Shine Roche McGowan
Selina Steele (Sunday Mail) – “Push To Outlaw Pregnant Play”
Best News Report (All Media) – sponsored by Shine Roche McGowan
Margaret Wenham (The Courier-Mail) – “Families In Crisis” Series
Best Investigative Report – sponsored by Queensland Mining Council
Hedley Thomas (The Courier-Mail) – “Property Scams”
Most Outstanding Contribution to Journalism – sponsored by Queensland Mining Council
Don Petersen (The Courier-Mail)
For all inquiries, contact: MEAAstateawards@walkleys.com
POSTAL ADDRESS:
MEAA State Media Awards
c/o The Walkley Foundation
245 Chalmers Street
Redfern NSW
2016
PHONE: +61 425 297 082
EMAIL: MEAAstateawards@walkleys.com