Entries close Tuesday April 3. Eligible entries must have been broadcast/published between January 1 – December 31 2017.
Scroll down and click on the tab below for details of the award categories, and the terms & conditions.
MEAA Media section South Australian president Samela Harris says: “We have just come through a spirited and heartening year of good journalism in South Australia. It is now time to celebrate with another round of our coveted SA Media Awards. Journalists and photographers, flick through the year’s archive files and assemble your entries. Sub-editors, you’ve been thrilling and entertaining with some outstanding headlines. There is an award category just for good headlines. Radio interviewers and television features journalists, there are categories for your stellar works. Young journalists feature prominently with major awards while rural and community journalists, and also PR people have niches under the umbrella of these proud awards. Don’t hold back. Enter now.
“South Australia’s Media Awards recognise the heart and soul and sheer excellence from diverse media state-wide. They recognise the commitment and originality of SA media professionals who continue to inform and enrich South Australians and the nation. Fittingly, the awards are presented at the 2018 SA Media Ball which will be held on Saturday June 2, 2018 at the Adelaide Festival Centre.”
Entries in the 2018 SA Media Awards are made in the following category sections.
ALL MEDIA
The All Media awards recognise all forms of media, including photography, print news and features, radio and television news and documentaries, online publications and/or a collaborative effort by a group of journalists or a media organisation.
GRAPHIC, ARTWORK OR CARTOON
Judges will be looking for illustrations or photo illustrations, graphics or cartoons displaying creativity, innovation and style, combined with artistic technique. The piece entered may have been created in a limited time in relation to deadlines, usually for a news section, publication or broadcast, or for feature stories or sections for which an appropriate amount of time has been allowed. The time frame allowed to create the entries should be specified in the 200 word supporting statement.
Entrants should submit THREE pieces, NOT NECESSARILY RELATED, to be judged as indicative of their work.
COMMENTARY, ANALYSIS, OPINION & CRITIQUE
This category is open to journalists involved in comment and analysis and includes leader writers, reviewers, opinion columnists and bloggers across the spectrum of discussion and debate, including arts, sports, business and politics.
Entrants should submit THREE pieces, NOT NECESSARILY RELATED, to be judged as indicative of their work.
COMMUNITY JOURNALIST
This category is open only to journalists working on community focused media such as local and non-daily publications. The category recognises their role in reporting on and informing their local communities.
Entrants should submit THREE pieces, NOT NECESSARILY RELATED, to be judged as indicative of their work.
RURAL/REGIONAL JOURNALIST
This category is open only to journalists based in regional/ rural centres outside Adelaide. This category recognises their role in reporting on and informing their local communities. The resources available to the entrant in creating the work should be specified in the 200 word supporting statement.
Entrants should submit THREE pieces, NOT NECESSARILY RELATED, to be judged as indicative of their work.
PUBLIC SERVICE JOURNALISM
This award recognises media reporting which addresses issues relating to social and economic equality, human rights and participatory democracy. In addition to the general judging guidelines, judges will have special regard for the public impact and/or benefit of the journalism and also to the size, resources and location of the medium.
Entrants should submit THREE pieces, NOT NECESSARILY RELATED, to be judged as indicative of their work.
SPORTS JOURNALISM
Covering both print and electronic media, this category recognises the contribution of journalists and photographers covering sporting events and issues. Entrants should submit their best coverage of a sport, an event or an issue.
Entrants should submit THREE pieces, NOT NECESSARILY RELATED, to be judged as indicative of their work.
INVESTIGATIVE
Recognising its valuable role, this category will reward well-researched and presented investigations. Works will be judged on accuracy, ethics, tenacity and public benefit.
Up to THREE pieces may be submitted on the SAME issue or subject
PUBLIC RELATIONS CAMPAIGN (GOVERNMENT OR PRIVATE)
This award recognises a government or private sector PR campaign for successfully addressing a client’s objective within the budget allocated. Campaigns may be short or long-term in nature, and may range from public education programs to community relations, issues/crisis management, integrated marketing communication, internal communication or corporate communication. Entries must outline the campaign strategy and delivery and include at least two pieces of evidence demonstrating results (e.g. survey results, phone inquiries, measures of outcomes) in addition to media coverage obtained. The campaign should be carefully researched, planned and implemented. The campaign must have clear goals and objectives which have been benchmarked, with results measured and evaluated
FREELANCE CONTRIBUTION
This award recognises freelance journalists, photographers & camera operators. The entry must show editorial independence, resourcefulness, originality, journalistic ability and newsworthiness as well as commitment to the MEAA Journalist Code of Ethics.
Entrants should submit THREE pieces, NOT NECESSARILY RELATED, to be judged as indicative of their work.
THREE HEADLINES
Sub editors enter their THREE best headlines. Judges will be looking for originality, flair and the headlines relevance to the story it heads.
THE MAX FATCHEN AWARD FOR BEST YOUNG JOURNALIST
Entrants must be aged 25 or under as at 31 December 2017 and must display creativity, research, technical skills, newsworthiness, writing flair and impact. Entries are not confined to reporting of youth issues – any media coverage may be entered in this category providing the entrant is aged 25 or under.
Entrants should submit THREE pieces, NOT NECESSARILY RELATED, to be judged as indicative of their work.
JULIE DUNCAN MEMORIAL AWARD FOR STUDENT JOURNALISM
This category is open to students of the University of South Australia’s Journalism program. Items will have been published or broadcast as part of the Journalism program, and will reflect outstanding initiative and/or newsworthiness and technical skill, and adhere to appropriate ethical and legal standards. Finalists and winners will be selected by the University of South Australia.
RADIO/AUDIO
RADIO/AUDIO NEWS OR CURRENT AFFAIRS OR FEATURE
The criteria include newsworthiness, courage, impact, immediacy and making use of the qualities of the medium in reporting news and pursuing excellence in journalism. High regard will be paid to research, writing, production, incisiveness, public benefit and ethics.
One entry only however up to THREE pieces may be submitted on the SAME issue or subject.
TV/VIDEO
TV/VIDEO NEWS REPORT
In particular, the judges will reward reports demonstrating newsworthiness, courage, impact, incisiveness, public benefit and ethics. Entries in this category may be a single short news report or one or more reports entailing coverage on the same subject.
One entry only however up to THREE pieces may be submitted on the SAME issue or subject.
TV/VIDEO CURRENT AFFAIRS OR FEATURE
This category aims to recognise current affairs, analysis of news events and longer reports. Reports should highlight research, effective storytelling and impact and have been produced ethically. Public benefit and courage in reporting will be considered favourably.
One entry only however up to THREE pieces may be submitted on the SAME issue or subject.
TV/VIDEO CAMERWORK
This category recognises the special role of the camera operator in news, current affairs and documentary. Entrants should submit three samples, not necessarily related, to be judged as indicative of their work.
**Entrants should submit THREE pieces, NOT NECESSARILY RELATED, to be judged as indicative of their work.
PRINT/ TEXT
PRINT/TEXT NEWS REPORT
Judges are particularly looking for courageous journalism, as well as writing excellence, accuracy, storytelling, newsworthiness, ethics, research, impact and public benefit.
Up to THREE pieces may be submitted on the SAME issue or subject.
PRINT/TEXT FEATURE
Keeping in mind the parameters of the medium, creativity, originality and writing flair will be highly regarded in this category, in addition to the conditions. Entries may come from the news or features sections, supplements or special publications.
Up to THREE pieces may be submitted on the SAME issue or subject.
PHOTOGRAPHY
FEATURE PHOTOGRAPH OR PHOTOGRAPHIC SERIES
Images submitted for feature or magazine purposes. They should display creativity, originality and technical excellence.
Entries may be either a single photograph or a series on the SAME subject.
If a series is submitted at LEAST ONE of the photographs must have been published.
Up to FIVE photographs may be submitted.
SPORT PHOTOGRAPH OR PHOTOGRAPHIC SERIES
This category will reward those who capture the emotion and drama of sport. Entries may show action or feature imagery in the sporting arena.
Entries may be either a single photograph or a series on the SAME subject.
If a series is submitted at LEAST ONE of the photographs must have been published.
Up to FIVE photographs may be submitted.
NEWS PHOTOGRAPHY
Newsworthiness, impact, technical superiority, creativity and originality will be looked at in this category.
Entries may be either a single photograph or a series on the SAME subject.
If a series is submitted at LEAST ONE of the photographs must have been published.
Up to FIVE photographs may be submitted.
GOLD AWARDS
HALL OF FAME – CONTRIBUTION TO JOURNALISM
This Award recognises long-term commitment and achievement in the industry. Third party nominations to be submitted with relevant supporting material by close of business, April 30, 2018. Recipient of this award will be chosen by the South Australian Media Awards Advisory Panel.
JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR
The winner of this Award is chosen by the South Australian Media Awards Advisory Panel. Each category winner, excluding Student of the Year, will be a contender for Journalist of the Year.
Best Coverage of Social Equity Affairs
Sponsored by: SACOSS
Winner: Alex Mann: “Body of Work”, ABC 7.30 – Links (one two three)
Judges Comments:
The judges praised Alex Mann’s sensitive and insightful handling of three stories that were highly contentious and very difficult to report. Stories of this calibre are the result of achieving the trust and respect of those at the heart of the issue, diligent research, and carefully considered reporting, where what is omitted is as critical as what is included.
Alex’s exclusive report detailing prominent euthanasia advocate Max Bromson’s suicide required extraordinary deftness to capture the reality of Max’s final moments without compromising Max’s family. Commensurate care was needed to avoid any suggestion of advocacy – for, or equally, against – the suicide. His coverage presented the human face of a contentious legal and political issue and arguably promoted understanding of it complexities.
His story “Never Married” elicited an apology from Premier Weatherill for South Australia’s lack of recognition of overseas same-sex marriages. When a freak accident claimed the life of Englishman David Bulmer-Rizzi, honeymooning in Adelaide with his husband Marco, the trust Alex built within 24 hours enabled powerful reportage that is both a respectful tribute to David and testament to Alex’s prowess.
Similarly, trust built with Adnyamathna people enabled Alex to present precious cultural insights to viewers, to inform their considerations of the nuclear waste dump debate through the lens of one of Australia’s first peoples.
All three pieces reflect a journalist of great skill for whom reporting with fairness and equity is paramount.
Finalists
Graphic, Artwork or Cartoon
Sponsored by: MEAA
Winner: Matt Pike: “100 Unforgettable Olympic Moments”, Adelaide Now – Links (One Two)
Judges Comments:
Matt Pike’s work was well executed and very original. It displays a high level of technical skill as well as many hours of painstaking research. The result is an engaging piece that allows readers to peruse decades of history in a light-hearted and whimsical way. Moments of triumph, scandal, heartbreak and humanity are skilfully captured and presented for readers to consume.
Finalists
Coverage of Sport
Sponsored by: Lion
Winner: Alex Mann: “Body of Work”, ABC 7.30 – Links (one two three)
Judges Comments:
This was an incredibly impressive portfolio of work from a reporter who obviously loves sport and is powerful at communicating that. Alex’s beautiful portrait of the terminally ill Leicester City fan gave the viewer goose bumps. The emotion was beautifully portrayed, never maudlin, and conveyed the unifying aspect of sport that speaks the same language around the world. The basketballer story showed skilful scripting to take this story well beyond the stock standard “player done good” yarn. And he showed his craft again with a great story on Chalmers, touching on what was missing in many other stories about this surprise swimming package – his incredible relationship with his father. Alex Mann knows how to build a compelling sport story.
Finalists
Rural/Regional Journalist
Sponsored by: Stories Well Told
Winner: Kate Hill, Selina Green, Courtney Howe and Alexia Atwood: “Ambulance cover backlash”, ABC South East – Links (one two three)
Judges Comments:
This group effort demonstrates what can be achieved when newsroom journalists work together to cover a story.
The ABC South East team identified a political decision that would impact thousands of residents in their community and persisted in covering the topic, speaking to a wide range of stakeholders and members of the community as the issue evolved over time.
The extensive coverage played a key role in the public debate of this issue and no doubt helped influence policymakers who eventually amended a controversial decision.
Finalists
Commentary, Analysis, Opinion & Critique
Sponsored by: Law Society South Australia
Winner: Michael McGuire: “Three columns”, The Advertiser – Links (one two three)
Judges Comments:
This competitive category features – as it always does – a large number of entries from a range of media and journalists, including freelancers. The breadth of topics and diversity of views submitted was equally wide ranging.
The finalists represent the high standard of work across the category by all entrants.
Michael Maguire’s winning entry stood out for its presentation of clear and incisive arguments in short, sharp, and occasionally – witty – prose. His unequivocal stance on issues in the public interest clearly invites and generates further discussion and debate.
Finalists
Investigative Journalism
Sponsored by: MEAA
Winner: Hendrik Gout: “Chris Fox Camp Gallipoli”, Today Tonight Adelaide – Links (one two three)
Judges Comments:
Hendrik Gout’s forensically researched stories display the best qualities of investigative journalism – thoroughness, meticulous attention to detail, compelling narratives that bring clarity to complicated issues, and dogged determination to reveal the truth. This trilogy of stories divulging the fraudulent activities of purported charity Camp Gallipoli and the false claims of its founder Chris Fox required courage and exceptional care to report, given society’s reverence for the ANZAC legacy. The exposure of Fox’s egregious misrepresentation of the organisation and his relatives’ war service in order to profit at the expense of genuine heroes was rendered all the more potent by Hendrik’s masterful storytelling and distinctive presentation, fittingly resulting in the revocation of the organisation’s charitable status.
Finalists
Best Community Journalist
Sponsored by: MEAA
Winner: Kate Hill: “Shipwreck Hunters, Emergency Gawkers and Biker Church”, ABC South East SA – Links (one two three)
Judges Comments:
Kate Hill’s stories are interesting and consistently well researched, written and presented.
More importantly, Hill’s work in this entry exemplifies the core skill of a good journalist: the ability to observe the world, identify stories worth investigating, and to then pursue them thoroughly, with fairness and an open mind.
Her biker church story was the result of observing motorcycle riders around town and deciding to follow her journalistic nose. The story was clearly based on some hefty leg work, gentle arm twisting and a determination to provide her audience with a rare glimpse inside the life of a Christian motorcycle group.
Similar, her piece on “gawkers” was the result of her observations and subsequent investigations. The piece raised important and timely issues about how social media is complicating the job of first responders in managing emergency situations.
Finalists
Print/Digital News or Lifestyle Feature
Sponsored by: University of South Australia
Winner: Lauren Novak: “Yvette Rigney Wilson – Inside Story”, The Advertiser – Links (one two)
Judges Comments:
In Yvette Rigney Wilson: Inside Story, Lauren Novack pieced together a compelling portrait of woman allegedly killed by her partner.
The reporter has seamlessly combined interviews with people who knew the victim and data on child protection in this newsworthy feature, which also highlights the impact of family violence on the indigenous community.
The writing shows flair and sensitivity, with commendable use of anecdotes and quotes.
The judges also note the reporter produced the feature under significant time and workload pressures, while dealing with the emotional toll of reporting on this harrowing case.
We believe Lauren Novack is a worthy winner.
Finalists
Print/ Digital News Report
Sponsored by: Telstra
Winner: Brad Crouch: “Transforming Health Dramas”, The Advertiser – Links (one two three)
Judges Comments
South Australians worried about the Weatherill Government’s shake-up of the health system, and what it means for their access to hospital and health care, should be grateful for the in-depth, expert reporting of Brad Crouch. Brad’s detailed grasp of the complex issues and well-placed sources were on display with a series of exclusives. His story revealing the possible closure of the Women’s and Children’s Hospital was just one of a series of scoops in an excellent portfolio of work that included fears for the future of the QEH and the resignation of the emergency department chief at Modbury Hospital.
Daniel Wills is highly commended for his impressive revelations about the lawsuits, problems, and counter-claims, behind the mysterious delays and costly stand-off between the government and the builder of the new Royal Adelaide Hospital.
Finalists
TV Current Affairs or Feature
Sponsored by: MEAA
Winner: Alex Mann: “Max Bromson’s Battle”, ABC 7.30 – Links (one )
Judges Comments
The winner of this category took a particularly challenging story and treated it with great sensitivity and respect while at the same time exploring a hugely important issue that can affect each and every one of us. This story was a thought provoking piece that without directly demanding it, encouraged the viewer to re-think their stance on euthanasia and one that had an immediate political reaction.
Finalists
TV News or Current Affairs Camera
Sponsored by: Mosaic Audio Visual
Winner: Andrew Foote: “Flooding Coverage”, Seven News 6pm- Links (one)
Judges Comments
Andrew Foote’s flood coverage was outstanding, taking the viewer right to the centre of the action. He came up with innovative angles under enormous pressure. Andrew demonstrated consistency in his work and a no-nonsense approach to representing natural disaster.
Finalists
TV News Report
Sponsored by: Uniting Communities
Winner: Phoebe Bowden: “Privacy Breach”, Ten Eyewitness News – Links (one two)
Judges Comments
The entries in the Best TV News Story category were particularly strong this year, making it a very competitive category and a challenge for the judges to choose a winner. The journalist who has won best TV News story, conducted a thorough investigation, uncovering a story which highlighted how the public’s trust is not always honoured. The journalist’s persistence to kept on digging until they uncovered the extent of the problem, led to an internal enquiry in SA Health and as a result, a change in public policy.
Finalists
Radio News & Current Affairs or Feature
Sponsored by: Media Super
Winner: Caroline Winter: “Statewide Blackout”, ABC PM program – Links (one two three)
Judges Comments
Caroline Winter’s portfolio is a brilliant example of good old fashioned shoe leather reporting that takes listeners into the heart of the blackout. Caroline could have opted out of this story at any time but instead took it solely upon herself to drive into the blackout and find compelling audio to illustrate the absurdity of a state without power. Tight scripting combined with great talent which she found herself under immense deadline pressure.
Finalists
Sport Photograph or Photographic Series
Sponsored by: MEAA
Winner: Dean Martin: “Body of Work”, The Advertiser – Links (one two three)
Judges Comments
Timing is everything in this action shot, but knowing your craft is anticipating the sports action, which is the essence of this memorable sports photo by Martin.
Finalists
Feature Photograph or Photographic Series
Sponsored by: MEAA
Winner: Simon Cross: “Body of Work”, The Advertiser – Links (one two)
Judges Comments
This is a beautiful eye-catching and arresting image of ‘our best friend’. Cross’ photograph demonstrates that persistence, attention to the details and patience pays off.
Finalists
News Photograph or Photographic Series
Sponsored by: MEAA
Winner: Tom Huntley: “Body of Work”, The Advertiser – Links (one two)
Judges Comments
This image captures the devastating moment a family and police officer realises the death, by drowning, of the family’s child at a suburban beach with significant impact and respect.
Finalists
Julie Duncan Memorial Award for Student Journalism
Sponsored by: University of South Australia
Winner: Kelly Hughes: “Body of Work”, University of South Australia – Links (one two )
Judges Comments
The Julie Duncan Student Journalist of the Year for 2017 is Kelly Hughes. Kelly is studying a double degree in Journalism and Creative Writing with a sub-major in International Relations. Apart from registering a commendably high grade point average, Kelly has worked hard at gaining experience in the industry. She’s done work experience at Fairfax Media and had articles published in The Age, the SMH, and the Financial Review, and admits she’s fallen in love with financial journalism. As a result, she’s the Editor of The Personal Super Investor, where she both writes her own content and reposts that of others. Kelly says she’s an avid believer in women’s rights and equality between the sexes, and is also interested in politics and world news. She says: “I wholeheartedly believe as a journalist one of our most important roles is to give a voice to the voiceless and empower people with knowledge and information.
Finalists
Max Fatchen Award for Best Young Journalist
Sponsored by: Office for Youth – Department for Communities and Social Inclusion
Winner: Bension Siebert: “Body of Work”, Solistice Media/In Daily – Links (one two three)
Judges Comments
Bension Siebert’s reports reveal an admirable capacity for digging beneath the surface of local government events and issues to discover relationships and situations that have the potential to go seriously wrong. After one such story, a group of Adelaide councils withdrew a tender for $50 million worth of street lights. Local government might be where citizens are most likely to come in contact with their representatives, but Bension’s reporting is where they are most likely to encounter clear explanations of what their councillors are doing. His ability to inspect complicated documents and complex situations and explain them in a language all his readers can understand is praiseworthy indeed.
Finalists
Best Print/Digital Journalist
Sponsored by: University of South Australia
Winner: Lauren Novak: “Body of work – sexism, child protection, domestic violence” The Advertiser – Links (one two three)
Judges Comments
Over a number of years Lauren Novak has thrust the issue of domestic violence in SA from the back pages and left hand pages of the daily newspaper, to a regular and rightful position on pages 1, 3 and 5. She has also been at the forefront of reporting as the state continues to grapple with its failures to address child abuse. On domestic violence she has exposed, in a series of exclusive stories, the nature of these dark and often invisible crimes hiding in plain sight, but causing a mounting toll of death and misery in our community. In three works submitted for these awards over the last year she has prised the annual death toll caused by domestic violence from a recalcitrant and ultimately embarrassed South Australian Police force. She has helped expose the appalling treatment of women in that police force, and finally she helped force the State Government to publish regular internal data that quantify the extent of child protection failings in a system under extreme pressure.
Finalists
Best Radio Broadcaster
Sponsored by: MEAA
Winner: Caroline Winter: “Body of work”, ABC- Links (one two three)
Judges Comments
Caroline Winter is a genuine storyteller.
With her naturally engaging style and crafty use of the medium, she produces compelling stories that humanise the issues of the day.
She provides a voice to South Australians dealing with the most difficult of situations and clearly earns the trust of those who open up to her.
Caroline’s winning entry is just a sample of a strong body of work that makes her a deserved winner of this award.
Finalist
Best Photographer
Sponsored by: Serafino Wines
Winner: Tom Huntley: “Body of Work”, The Advertiser – Links (one two three four five)
Judges Comments
The calibre of photographs across the board in this category, meant to come out as the winner, took something truly special. The judges were impressed by the breadth of Tom’s work, and by his ability to capture small ordinary moments, and make them extraordinary. That skill, best demonstrated by his image Leon and the Mummy. The drummer boy spoke to Tom’s ability to create a piece of art with his lens, while his technical skill was on full display in the image of women in science. And his photograph on Glenelg beach of a police officer with a hand on his heart, as he spoke to a mother who’d lost her son to drowning, was a fine example of the photographer as news gatherer: that image alone, told the entire story in a single frame.
Finalists
Best Television Broadcaster (Presenter, Reporter or Camera Person)
Sponsored by: Media Super
Winner: Alex Mann: “Body of Work”, ABC 7:30 – Links (one two three)
Judges Comments
Alex has shown an exemplary ability to handle complex and sensitive narratives within the broadcast medium. His piece on the Leicester City fan staying alive for his team, is extraordinarily moving – Alex found the joy and celebration, rather than the sadness. In a media landscape full of stories about Cy Walsh, Alex’s is beautifully crafted and utterly compelling. His piece on the euthanasia death of Max Bromson is insightful, balanced, and deftly navigates a legal and ethical minefield. That story alone, is worthy of the highest praise.
Finalists
Hall of Fame for Outstanding Contribution to Journalism
Sponsored by: MEAA
Winner: Samela Harris
Judges’ comments:
Samela Harris, the 2017 SA Media Hall of Fame inductee is described by colleagues as possessing “restless energy”, delivering “innovative and witty reporting”, and having “very wide perspectives on the world”.
While Adelaide had a long tradition of social and society notes in newspapers written by women, it had few women who worked at the hard end of news reporting until Sa came along.
She was the first non-social pages female writer at Rupert Murdoch’s, The News, and broke ground on stories such as the banning of women from front bars, the moratorium marches, and opposition to the death penalty. She was also the first female football columnist, not just at The News, but so far as is known, anywhere in Australia.
An early adopter of new technology, Samela was out in cyberspace when no one knew what it was. Out in virtual communities when no one had heard of them and became the inaugural online editor of The Advertiser. She created a ground-breaking Internet column that continued weekly for seven years called Net Adventures, created a website for it and even introduced Twitter to her peers (and taught them how to use it).
Samela Harris is one of the pioneering examples of female professional journalists in Australia.
2017 Journalist of the Year
Sponsored by: University of South Australia
Winner: Alex Mann, ABC 7:30
Judges Comments
If ever a journalist held a judging panel hostage to their emotions, it was this entrant in the 2017 Awards.
Exceptional versatility and insight, patience with research and well-honed presentation characterise this extremely worthy Journalist of the Year.
A highly controversial and very difficult subject to cover, in an exclusive report, this journalist delivered a sense of intimacy and immediacy which drew hearts and minds of judges and public alike, into the depths of an agonising human dilemma.
A superbly researched and edited feature – it was just one of their stories recognised this year.
The degree of excellence was so outstanding, they were awarded first place in four different categories this evening.
The same compassionate insight and delicacy of touch that told the euthanasia story of Max Bromson, came to bear in a fastidiously-researched analysis of the Cy Walsh Verdict and yet again, on the coverage of a dying Foxes Fan willing himself to stay alive, for just one more victory by his team.
The 2017 Journalist of the Year… is Alex Mann.
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The Nine Network’s Ben Avery was named Journalist of the Year at the 2016 South Australian Media Awards. In 2016, there were a record 184 entries over 22 categories.
Avery’s award was for a body of work which included his coverage of the investigation of the murder of young Mannum mother Jody Meyers in August 2015, for which he also won Best TV News Report. It was a big night for Avery, who took home a third award for Best Television Broadcaster, the second consecutive year he has won this award.
The judges said Avery was “one of the best story breakers in the business”. They noted that he has “a naturally engaging style as a TV broadcaster – not only in his delivery but also in how he gathers news, demonstrated by his ability to break stories by forming strong contacts”.
Margaret Ralston AM was inducted into the SA Hall of Fame for Outstanding Contribution to Journalism. A genuine trailblazer, Ralston began her career as a journalist with the now-defunct Adelaide afternoon daily paper The News in 1972 and was later appointed as Sports Editor, a position she held until 1992. She was the first woman to hold this position at a major metropolitan Australian newspaper.
Ralston’s citation says: “Marg was a great encourager to young journalists, including providing advice to women reporting on SANFL games which required them to speak to coaches and players after the games in the change rooms.
In a new category, Hendrik Gout of Network Seven won the award Best Investigative Journalism for his coverage of the collapse of the Interfert network of fertiliser companies. The judges commented: “His skilful unravelling and articulate account of a complex financial scandal with significant ramifications in three states ensured it was accessible and easily understood by a broad audience . . . While foot-in-the-door journalism has its detractors, this series of reports showed it at its effective best and displayed a balance and impartiality that stands out within the genre.
The ABC’s Natalie Whiting was named Best Radio Broadcaster, with the judges commenting: “Natalie Whiting does a top notch job of telling compelling original stories for people who don’t have a voice -on topics that affect the lives of vulnerable South Australians . . . It’s not easy to shed light and make a difference on topics that aren’t the headline grabbing news of the day, but Natalie Whiting does this with accuracy, sensitivity, strong writing and solid broadcast skills.
Other big winners included The Advertiser’s Lauren Novak, who was named Best Print/Digital Journalist for a body of work including her agenda-setting and forensic coverage of South Australia’s dysfunctional child protection system and domestic violence epidemic over a number of years. Best Photographer in a high-calibre field was Dean Martin, also of The Advertiser.
The Max Fatchen Award for Best Young Journalist went to Bension Siebert of Solstice Media/InDaily, while Ashleigh Pisani from the University of South Australia won the Julie Duncan Memorial Award for Student Journalism.
Commentary, Analysis, Opinion & Critique
Sponsored by: Law Society SA
Winner: David Washington, InDaily: Body of Work
Finalists
Links to view submissions (one, two ,three)
Judges’ Comments:
Increasingly, in this category, journalists are required to make sense of an avalanche of information, while “speaking truth to power”, articulating public concerns and producing entertaining, thought-provoking content. At the same time, there’s increasing competition for attention with many more avenues for comment, analysis, critique and opinion. Not only does everyone have an opinion but they have the means to express it. Commentary Journalism has probably never been more challenging, so standing out in this category is a major achievement!
With a large number of entrants, the judges were confronted with the difficulty of selecting only one winner. In a high calibre field the three finalists were exceptional in demonstrating the critical qualities of newsworthiness, thorough research, incisiveness, originality and public benefit.
The winning entry expressed all of these qualities in a diverse and eloquent body of work that was engaging, entertaining and informative.
Best Community Journalist
Sponsored by: Stories Well Told
Winner: Kate Hill, ABC: Body of Work
Finalists
Links to view submissions (one, two ,three)
Judges’ Comments:
Kate Hill’s entry canvassed some fascinating human interest stories specific to her regional patch. All were covered with sensitivity and compassion and written in a highly skilled and engaging manner.
Best Rural/Regional Journalist
Sponsored by: MEAA
Winner: Elise Fantin, ABC: Palliative care saved
Finalists
Links to view submissions (one, two ,three)
Judges’ Comments:
With rural and regional newsrooms particularly under threat by a shrinking media landscape, it is heartening to see the high quality of entries in this important category.
Elise Fantin’s series on palliative care showed dedication to a difficult topic and undoubtedly contributed to the public pressure that saw services restored. Her focus on rural health and services for critically ill patients gave voice to a community who may not always be able to speak for themselves.
However, all three entrants displayed skilled and creative reporting, and the outcome was certainly close. The judges particularly appreciated both Peri and Elizabeth’s clear desire to seek out unique stories and tell them in an engaging way, as evidenced by the tie for second place.
Best Coverage of Social Equity Affairs
Sponsored by: SACOSS
Winner: Natalie Whiting, ABC News 24: Body of Work
Finalists:
Links to view submissions (one, two)
Judges Comments:
The production values in Natalie Whiting’s body of work are impressive – her balanced treatment of such difficult and disparate topics showcased a high level of skill. Natalie enabled her talent to articulate their stories in challenging surroundings, and overcome their social circumstances in doing so. She allowed those at the heart of the story to tell it their way, and clearly gained their trust over a number of days and weeks. Natalie carefully reported on the many complexities to these difficult stories, treating the subjects with a great deal of dignity. Beautifully executed.
Best Coverage of Sport
Sponsored by: Lion
Winner: Richard Earle, The Advertiser: Trailblazers
Finalists
Judges’ Comments:
The sports category was hotly contested one and the judges found it very difficult to separate the entries. Richard Earle was selected as the winner for three stories across three different sporting codes that dug deeply into his subjects and their lives. His stories were captivating and well-written.
Best Investigative Journalism
Sponsored by: MEAA
Winner: Hendrik Gout, Seven Network : Interfert
Finalists:
Links to view submissions (one, two )
Judges’ Comments:
In the highly contested category of investigative journalism, the judges’ minds were exercised by an extremely high calibre of entries, confirming the merit of this new category. Hendrik Gout’s winning entry faced stiff competition in a field that provoked extended debate. He prevailed on some compelling counts, foremost amongst them the extended, dogged and thorough research conducted into the collapse of a network of fertilizer companies. His skilful unravelling and articulate account of a complex financial scandal with significant ramifications in three states ensured it was accessible and easily understood by a broad audience. A huge work with tentacles reaching internationally, Hendrik displayed fearlessness and flair to expose the myriad failings that brought a series of rural agricultural suppliers to the brink of failure – while the instigators, the bank and the government regulator seemingly did little to remedy the situation. While foot-in-the-door journalism has its detractors, this series of reports showed it at its effective best and displayed a balance and impartiality that stands out within the genre.
Best Freelance Contribution
Sponsored by: Media Super
Winner: Max Opray, Schwartz Media, Guardian News and Media: Body of Work
Finalist
Links to view submissions (one, two ,three)
Judges’ Comments:
Max Opray’s entry saw a wide range of diverse issues tackled impressively and intelligently, with energetic and captivating writing. A highlight for the judges was his eye-opening expose on an underground network of illegal sun bed.
Best Radio News or Current Affairs or Feature Report
Sponsored by: Anglicare SA
Winner: Carl Smith, ABC: Energy Futures
Finalists
Links to view submissions (one, two ,three)
Judges’ Comments:
The judges were unanimous in agreeing that Carl’s series on Energy Futures was the strongest radio feature, in terms of depth of coverage and high-level production values. This series is especially pertinent to a South Australian context at the moment, given the closure of the Northern Power Station in Port Augusta and new recommendations that the state host a nuclear waste disposal facility. Carl featured a wide range of talent to provide an in-depth analysis of energy choices available in Australia, placing the listener on the scene in many occasions through strong use of radio production techniques.
Best TV News Report
Sponsored by: Media Super
Winner: Ben Avery, Nine News Adelaide: Jody Meyers Murder
Finalists
Judges’ Comments:
This category drew a high standard of entries making the judging process very hard. The judges would like to commend all the journalist in this category for their strong entries.
The winner researched for over two weeks in order to break this story. The journalist showed their commitment to being where the news was, and this is how they managed such a breakthrough. Their persistence was rewarded with exclusive interviews and details. It was a story that every media outlet in Adelaide was following and he lead the pack. This journalist produced a narrative that was clear, insightful and had great impact.
Best TV Current Affairs or Feature
Sponsored by: MEAA
Winner: Alex Mann, ABC, 7.30 Report: On The Run
Finalists:
Judges’ Comments:
Another category which drew a very high standard of entries.
The work of this journalist was followed up by other media, and fed into a national discussion about exploitation of workers. The journalist’s bravery was highlighted when he went up against a very influential business in SA, in the face of legal threats. The journalist uncovered an important issue, got good talent to talk to him despite concerns about repercussions, and explained a complicated issue well.
Best TV News or Current Affairs- Camera
Sponsored by: Mosaic Audio Visual
Winner: Scott Perry, Nine Network Australia: Sampson Flat Bushfire Coverage
Finalists
Judges’ Comments:
In a field of entries dominated by natural disasters, Scott Perry’s work stood out. Working alongside a reporter, they were the only crew on frontline of the fire ground as the blaze changed direction and double backed. In a difficult and dangerous workplace environment, Perry filmed up close the elements for the report to paint a comprehensive picture of the battle on the ground to save Kerbrook. He captured the urgency and confusion of the remaining residents, closely following them as they tried to douse the flames with hoses and buckets of water. He did this in isolation from other media crew, in an environment with rapidly changing risks and among people who were clearly highly stressed. His work demonstrates courage and a high level of commitment to his craft.
Best Print /Digital News Report
Sponsored by: Telstra
Winner: Penelope Debelle, Advertiser Newspapers: Chemotherapy bungle exposed
Finalists:
Judges’ Comments:
A top-notch expose from a reporter with a strong contact list, a keen eye for news, and an ability to think on her feet as the story developed. The page one pieces led to a state inquiry and once again underscored pressures on the health system. The scoop revealed how the health of cancer patients had been potentially compromised by inadequate doses of chemotherapy due to a typographical error. Worse still was the follow-up revelations that the doses continued for some patients even when the problem was supposed to have been fixed. A great exclusive which benefited the victims of the bungle, the broader public interest, and kept the health system under scrutiny.
Best Print /Digital News or Lifestyle Feature
Sponsored by: University of South Australia
Winner: Verity Edwards, The Australian: Chloe Valentine
Finalists:
Judges’ Comments:
Verity Edwards’s piece on the death of four-year-old Chloe Valentine brings the detachment of the professional journalist to an intensely emotive issue. Chloe’s mother Ashlee Polkinghorne and her partner Ben McPartland were both jailed on charges of manslaughter by neglect, and Edwards’s account of that neglect makes for harrowing reading. She documents the numerous occasions where Families SA failed to act, the missed opportunities where intervention by Families SA would have saved Chloe’s life and – through it all – the heartbreak of Chloe’s grandmother Belinda Valentine, who sought in vain to adopt Chloe and so keep her safe. Edwards doesn’t spare her readers the anguish, but this nevertheless is an empathetic article, told with great sensitivity. Most importantly, it reminds us of our collective responsibility to protect the vulnerable.
Best News Photograph or Photographic Series
Sponsored by: MEAA
Winner: Kelly Barnes, The Australian: John Lush – Pinery Fires, at son’s burnt-out home
Finalists:
Links to view submissions (one, two ,three)
Judges’ Comments:
This is a powerful human interest photograph which depicts the personal loss and devastation from the Pinery fires. Kelly has conveyed the power of Australian bush-fires through the quiet emotion of a father standing in the ruins of his son’s home.
Best Sport Photograph or Photographic Series
Sponsored by: MEAA
Winner: Ryan Schembri, SMP Images/Australian Baseball League: Twilight pitching – Baseball
Finalists:
Judges’ Comments:
Ryan has brought us three images that illustrate the course of a baseball series – Adelaide Bite v Melbourne Aces. This important encounter was the decider for minor premiership. The photographs show off Ryan’s technical skills as well as an understanding of the game and the ability to adapt in various situations to make best use of available light and action. The before, during and after-game photos from this four-game encounter tell us a story and bring us closer to the players, the event and ultimate victory for Adelaide.
The judges were pleased to see in this category the wide range of sports being covered and many entries displayed the photographer’s passion for the contest.
Best Feature Photograph or Photographic Series
Sponsored by: MEAA
Winner: Simon Cross, The Advertiser: Sky-high wind power
Finalists:
Links to view submissions (one, two)
Judges’ Comments:
Again this winning photograph is a unanimous decision by the judges. Embodying the strong concepts of photojournalism, Simon showed a fearlessness in climbing the wind turbine. The unusual angle shows careful planning, creative thinking and an eye to capture new technology from a different perspective.
Julie Duncan Memorial Award for Student Journalism
Sponsored by: University of South Australia
Winner: Ashleigh Pisani, University of South Australia
Finalists
Judges’ Comments:
Ashleigh Pisani is a journalism and international relations student at the University of South Australia, who dreams of becoming a political journalist one day.
Ashleigh, who’s edited UniSA’s student publication On The Record, says she “wants to be in the thick of it in our nation’s capital, reporting on all the important goings on, as well as the often colourful invective and drama that dominates the Australian political landscape”.
As well as reporting for On The Record and publishing her own blog, Breakfast at Parliament, Ashleigh has an eye-wateringly high grade point average. She is a recognised leader in the university’s journalism program and her lecturers predict a bright future for her in the news industry.
Max Fatchen Award for Best Young Journalist
Sponsored by: Office for Youth — Department for Communities and Social Inclusion
Winner: Bension Siebert: Solstice Media/InDaily
Finalists:
Links to view submissions (one, two ,three)
Judges’ Comments:
The Max Fatchen Award for Best Young Journalist is open to young journalists working in any media. The judges were encouraged by the breadth and strength of the entries submitted in this category this year
The winner is Bension Siebert from InDaily for a series of articles on the new South Road Superway
Bension reported serious allegations about construction practices on the Superway, the most expensive road project in the state’s history.
His dogged persistence investigating claims by workers and structural engineers led eventually to a state parliamentary committee inquiry.
The judges considered that Bension’s carefully crafted and balanced articles reflected an impressive depth of investigation and succeeded in raising serious concerns without either sensationalising or trivialising the subject matter.
The judges highly commended the entry of the ABC’s Elise Fantin for her reports that Country Health SA was going to reduce palliative care services in the state’s south-east.
Elise’s impressive and balanced reports followed the issue through from the initial announcement of the cuts through a funding dispute between the federal and state governments to the state government’s eventual decision to reinstate the positions.
Best Radio Broadcaster
Sponsored by: MEAA
Winner: Natalie Whiting: ABC
Finalist
Links to view submissions (one, two ,three)
Judges’ Comments:
Natalie Whiting does a top notch job of telling compelling original stories for people who don’t have a voice -on topics that affect the lives of vulnerable South Australians. In this winning entry it’s the Stolen Generations, Kidney Disease and Disability. The fact her stories have contributed to change speaks for itself. It’s not easy to shed light and make a difference on topics that aren’t the headline grabbing news of the day, but Natalie Whiting does this with accuracy, sensitivity, strong writing and solid broadcast skills.
Best Print/Digital Journalist
Sponsored by: University of South Australia
Winner: Lauren Novak: The Advertiser
Finalists:
Links to view submissions (one, two ,three)
Judges’ Comments:
For a number of years Advertiser reporter Lauren Novak has led the Adelaide media in her forensic coverage of South Australia’s dysfunctional child protection system and domestic violence epidemic, while also as a young journalist furthering her studies in Europe and participating in a media exchange to Cambodia.
In the current judging period she again displayed news-breaking excellence by revealing in her piece ‘Urgent pleas put on hold’ that pressured Families SA call centre workers were being directed as an efficiency measure to deliberately leave calls for help on hold, potentially putting children at risk.
Further, her Freedom of Information investigation titled ‘Abusing the system’, quantified the extent to which offenders are breaching court protection orders to get at their victims.
In her final exclusive titled ‘SA police officer’s racism disgrace’, Lauren revealed Police Commissioner Gary Burns had allowed an officer to avoid serious punishment despite the officer telling an Aboriginal man he would like to tie a hose around his neck and then quote; “set you on fire and drag you around the streets attached to our car”.
The judges paid tribute to Lauren’s courageous efforts to expose these issues to the South Australian public.
Best Photographer
Sponsored by: Serafino Wines
Winner: Dean Martin: Advertiser Newspapers
Finalists:
Links to view submissions (one, two ,three, four, five)
Judges’ Comments:
It was a matter of the agony of the ecstasy for judges assessing the entries in this category of the 2016 Media Awards.
To say they were of high calibre is an understatement. All the 2016 entrants impressed. Some dazzled.
Hours were spent. Judges had images up for days, looking at the glories of light and composition, the quick reflexes of those photographers who captured historic moments and emotions in lightning-fast action candids, those who snatched action from a sporting fray and froze it in sharp death-defying precision, those who touched the heart with pathos and melancholy in the aftermath of tragedy…
Those, also, who took a tired old theme and breathed new life into it. Let us not forget the media has to cover so many classic stories and predicaments over and over again.
This year’s winner is an old hand at all of this.
Decades in the job have not wearied his artist’s eye or jaded his view of the world. They have just further honed him as a great exponent of his art.
He is DEAN MARTIN, veteran ‘Tiser ‘Tog.
He wins for his body of work, from sport to on-the-spot hard news, from eye-catching sparkle to sweet, timeless humanity.
His photograph of the new tomato economy of Port Augusta is a feast for the eye. HIs shot of the firefighters aloft in a pall of smoke as the city Kung Fu Academy burned down is unforgettable. He saw St George fighting the dragon in that scene. His imagination is always working. And when he came to illustrate what could be a pretty ordinary Anzac Day story about buglers, he brought in a 3-year-old boy and lifetime’s expertise with light and produced a work of art, one of the great shots of the year and any other year.
Dean Martin. Master of his art.
Best Television Broadcaster (Presenter, Reporter or Camera Person)
Sponsored by: Media Super
Winner: Ben Avery: Nine News Adelaide
Finalists:
Links to view submissions (one, two ,three)
Judges’ Comments:
The judges were impressed with Ben’s naturally engaging style as a TV broadcaster – not only in his delivery but also in how he gathers news, demonstrated by his ability to break stories by forming strong contacts.
His live crosses are flawless yet conversational – a difficult balance to master.
Ben’s entries showed deftness in covering major news events with calm authority and an ability to hit the right tone in a variety of situations, from the urgency of an unfolding bushfire, to the shock death of Phil Walsh, including breaking the news to South Australians on morning radio before updating through a series of live crosses and a comprehensive evening news package.
His script writing blends simplicity with a fine turn of phrase – all while detailing the facts and letting the stories speak for themselves.
But some stories are only able to speak for themselves because of strong investigative reporting, and in Ben’s standout work covering the Jody Meyers murder case he broke many exclusive elements, including a breakthrough arrest.
Hall of Fame – For Outstanding Contribution to Journalism
Sponsored by: MEAA
Winner: Margaret Ralston AM
Judges’ Comments:
The 2016 inductee to the South Australia Media Hall of Fame, Margaret (Marg) Ralston AM began her career as a journalist with Adelaide’s afternoon daily paper The News in 1972 and was later appointed as Sports Editor, a position she held until 1992. She was a trailblazer, being the first woman to hold this position at a major metropolitan Australian newspaper.
Margaret was awarded the Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the Australia’s Day Honours List in 2001 for service to amateur and professional sport, particularly in South Australia, as a journalist and administrator.
Marg was a great encourager to young journalists, including providing advice to women reporting on SANFL games which required them to speak to coaches and players after the games in the change rooms.
Journalist of the Year
Sponsored by: University of South Australia
Winner: Ben Avery
Judges Comments:
The Journalist of the Year for 2016 is one of the best story breakers in the business, and they certainly proved that over the past twelve months.
They have the natural flair to earn the trust of people from all walks of life, and the determination to keep asking questions to find out the truth.
They have proven they can hold to account those people, who are clearly trying to conceal the truth.
Their story telling is done with a natural ease and warmth, and has given people dealing with the most dreadful of situations a voice.
Not only do they have the ability to doggedly pursue a story over days or weeks, but this year’s journalist of the year, has shown repeatedly the skill to react to breaking news, whether that’s human tragedy or natural disaster, and bring live rolling coverage to the people of Adelaide, while also discovering what others didn’t.
This was exemplified in their coverage of the biggest story of the year, the death of Phil Walsh, when they were the first to deliver the news of the stabbing of the Crows coach, that left so so many in disbelief.
This year’s winner is a compassionate, and determined and versatile reporter, and also a great bloke.
The journalist of the year for 2016… Is Ben Avery.
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The SA Media Ball, incorporating the SA Media Awards is a non-profit entity with all the monies gained from sponsorship invested into the Gala Event and Awards program. Four types of sponsorship are available: Gold, Silver, Bronze and Media Partnership.
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Anna Magnus, National Manager, State Media Awards
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