What is your role and what does it entail?

I’m the state political reporter for 10 News First in Queensland. No day is ever the same! Some days we’re starting off in the office – making calls to contacts about any political stories that are brewing, or we could be on a construction site with the Premier or Minister who is making an announcement. On weeks when parliament is sitting, I’m in the halls of power, as bills are debated, ready for whatever political scandal pops up, especially during Question Time. Otherwise, I’m helping out in the office helping produce our nightly bulletin chasing other non-political stories.

What do you love most about the world of journalism?

Two big things that I love about journalism in news is firstly, there’s never a dull day. You might start your morning chasing a story about the latest housing data and by 5pm you’re doing a live cross at a crime scene or you’re scrambling together a story about a politician resigning. You really can’t predict when and where and even how news breaks. Secondly, everything to a degree, resets. Once your story goes to air, tomorrow is (on most days) a clean slate. There might be a follow up, or more developments but ultimately, if you’re not having a great day, you always know you’ll be able to try again tomorrow. 

What is the vibe in the newsroom when there’s a major, unpredictable event unfolding such as Cyclone Alfred?

Ask any journalist and they’ll all say the same thing – they live for breaking news. Cyclone Alfred is the perfect example. While we knew a few days ahead that the cyclone was coming, our newsroom essentially mobilised with crews spread out across South East Queensland covering all angles. That feeling never gets old. I was lucky enough to be in the newsroom as my colleagues got very wet while chasing and gathering information and seeing all of those interviews with people, being able to craft the best story and seeing it go to air is always satisfying. Yes, it is very stressful at times! But we’re at our best when big breaking news happens. There’s no other workplace like it. Being in the front seat to tell the first version of history.

How do you handle the stress of making sure you’re across all the breaking news stories, and making sure all your facts are correct when you need to get to air quickly?

On some days it isn’t easy. But we have an awesome team in Brisbane, and a big shout out to our chief of staff Dick Butler who is the first point of call. He’s very often the first to hear if big news is breaking. Otherwise, we might see a post on social media from a local neighbourhood group or we get a call from a member of the public. Regardless, we check and triple check. The first calls we make are to police, firefighters and Queensland Ambulance to make sure what we’re hearing is accurate. Otherwise, we don’t run the story. For political stories we check with our sources at parliament. The priority is making sure what we put to air is correct, even if that means not always being first compared to our competitors.

What do you consider to be your proudest moment both personally and professionally? 

Personally, I know it sounds cliche but being able to travel the world. I try and visit at least a few new countries every year, making lifelong friends along the way and so far, so good! It’s also a great way to switch off from the news cycle!

Professionally, interviewing my mum live on television for Mother’s Day is up there! It also won’t be only time we see her. Hint: Keep an eye out on the upcoming season of The Dog House!

Who is Matthew Karstunen outside of work? What do you love to do on weekends?

Like everyone at the moment, I’m trying to get into running! Otherwise, you’ll find me doing some long walks along the Brisbane River, catching up with friends for brunch or dinner, going to the movies (solo or with people – don’t judge!) or planning my next holiday. 

What are your Top three favourite Instagram accounts to follow?

I hate to say it but I’m a severe doom scroller! Not just on Instagram but TikTok as well. I’m very well versed in the latest meme/online trends! 

But you can never go wrong with the Betoota Advocate. A good Brisbane account to check out is @Jon.Wyeth, a local influencer who shows you all the newest and best food spots. @whtmakesyou is a small account with a few thousand followers interviewing people about what makes them happy and sad. Very raw but very real.