What is your role and what does it entail?

I’m based in Hobart and lead a team of ten full-time journalists and editors. As part of my role, I oversee the creation of the 130 local news updates that go to air across our 13 markets in regional Victoria, southern New South Wales and Queensland each weekday. I also present the updates for regional Victoria and write updates for Gippsland.

What sort of stories are important to regional communities?

I find the stories that tend to matter most to regional communities are often the ones that hit close to home – things that impact people’s daily lives likes health, cost of living, jobs, and weather. It’s important to shine a light on the issues that don’t always get attention, like local infrastructure, education, and the environment while also sharing the wins and milestones that bring people together.

What stories have you covered that have stuck in your memory and why?

Two of the stories that have really stood out for me have been the Gregory Lynn trial and the current mushroom murder trial. They were both high-profile, complex stories that drew national (and international) attention, but what made them especially memorable was how deeply they affected the local community. There was a real sense of shock, grief, and curiosity, and as a journalist I felt a strong responsibility to cover them with accuracy and sensitivity – especially given the short amount of time we have to cover stories like these in our updates. These kinds of stories stay with you – not just because of the headlines, but because of the people behind them and the impact they have on the region.

Are there any misconceptions people outside of your field have about your job?

I think often when people hear I present news updates they assume we have hair and makeup staff to get us ready for camera. In reality, it’s all DIY with us getting ready with a mirror propped up in a storeroom or at our desks! On a more serious note, there are oftentimes when people complain about ‘fake news’, which can be frustrating. We’re doing our absolute best every day to produce news that’s important, relevant, and accurate for our regional communities.

Do you know Queen Mary?

I don’t know Queen Mary personally, but in classic Tasmanian fashion I did go to high school with a few of her relatives.

If you could be part of one show on any Paramount, what would it be and why?

I love to watch Have You Been Paying Attention?every week – I just wish I were funny enough to join the panel!  

Where would we find you on the weekends?

Usually hanging out with my golden retriever, Mack. I’m also a big lover of good food and wine, so I love an afternoon at one of the city’s great wine bars.