A CREATIVE, forceful and authoritative newspaper, the Pakenham-Berwick Gazette has again been named the Best Newspaper at the Community Newspapers of Australia Awards.
Awarded on Friday night, CNA judges applauded the Gazette’s use of quality photography and thoughtful journalism as the reasons for the paper’s success, enabling the real issues of the community to be exposed.
Beating other community newspapers in Tasmania, Victoria, South Australia and Western Australia, the Gazette’s well researched feature stories were described as well-presented and said other areas of the paper including real estate, motoring and classified sections enhanced the overall package.
The Gazette was also named as the national winner in the under 30,000 circulation catetory, topping the community papers in New South Wales, Queensland and the Northern Territory as well.
Editor Garry Howe’s comment piece on the media’s intrusive behaviour towards the Blackwood family after the murder of Pakenham mother of three Kylie Blackwood was also awarded the Peter Isaacson Memorial award for Best Editorial.
Judges said his editorial was both poignant and courageous and deserving of the winner’s title.
The Gazette’s sister paper the Dandenong Journal was named Best Newspaper (circulation over 50,000), with judges commending the paper on its very strong journalism ethic and great commitment to the community.
Judges said that while there is a significant level of commercial support, management have ensured there is still room for the very best journalism and photography that the newsroom can offer.
The Journal’s strong advertising sections, like Journal Property, were also celebrated.
Cranbourne News reporter Bridget Cook of Tooradin won the Best News Story for her front page article on the grubby swingers organised at a children’s play centre.
Judges said Bridget’s story demonstrated the relevance of powerful, incisive reporting.
Another Star product, the Geelong Independent, was awarded with Best Special Publication for its GC magazine, which also won at a national level.
Judges described the magazines as crisp and vibrant as a sunny winter’s day.
The Mail Newspaper Group was also successful, named winner of the Best Digital Publishing category.
Judges described the Mail Facebook page as a one-stop shop for all the happenings in the Yarra Valley and Dandenongs.
Mail reporter Kath Gannaway was also awarded two national awards in the category for Best Feature Story.
Judges said either of Kath’s stories could have won first place, but when considered together it seemed fair to award them joint winners.
