At the moment I am in the process of compiling information for my final journalism assignment. I am writing a feature article on the importance of local news sources for regional areas, with particular attention on answering whether or not a comprehensive local news source is a thing of the past.
From the information I have sourced thus far, a general consensus seems to be that the quality of locals news, particularly in rural areas, is diminishing. In July this year, Triple J's Hack program ran a feature titled 'Is Regional Media Losing Touch with Regional Communities?'. Their findings revealed that in many instances, local news is not actually being produced locally. For example, a Prime 'local' news broadcast for the Manning area, may actually be broadcast from Canberra. Further, some regional areas do not even have access to a comprehensive local news source.
So why is a comprehensive local news source important? Regional Manager for the Manning River Times (Taree), John Bulmer, said that "apart from word of mouth, local newspapers are the best and most comprehensive source of local news." David Ellery, editor of the Northern Daily Leader newspaper in Tamworth believes a comprehensive local news source is indispensable. "It particularly helps to form a real sense of community and plays an advocacy role for that community," said Mr Ellery.
But how can they guarantee this comprehensiveness, ensuring local newspapers keep in touch with the local people?
"We deal with the community every day. The journalists live in the community and I make sure I get feedback on our product on my rounds. From time to time we conduct community surveys gathering perceptions on the paper. If we didn't listen to the people, we would not have survived this long," said Mr Ellery.
So that is what the professionals have to say, but what about the local people? John Rawson of Port Macquarie, says the quality of local news in his region varies, but says he can only get good local television news coverage on one channel, NBN.
Mr Rawson was also able to point out a significant movement for local news in his area.
"We have just received news that the Port Macquarie papers, owned my Fairfax media, will no longer be printed in Port Macquarie, but will be printed in Newcastle and shipped to Port. This will have a negative effect on local news as it takes the local element away from the area. It will also have a negative effect on the Port Macquarie economy as many local businesses will be affected by this decision. Local areas are becoming no more than 'shop-fronts' for local news. It is a very disappointing decision," said Mr Rawson.
Tamworth resident, and town planner, David Maclean is content with the standard of news in his region.
"The standard of locals news in the New England North West area is very good, with excellent coverage in the printed and electronic media. The only criticism is the lack of weekend coverage by the TV stations. We have to wait till Mondays to catch up, although NBN TV may have some sports news on the weekend evening news something," said Mr Maclean.
Mr Maclean further exemplified the need for quality local news.
"Reliable local news is very important. Not only do we need to hear about local events and issues, but it gives people a means to voice their concerns, inform their community and record important stories in the lives of the local population," said Mr Maclean.
As I delve further into this assignment, I hope to uncover some specifics about what sells local papers, how local institutions benefit from having a good local news source and the threats towards local media. Please note, this is a very rough draft with a couple of key points placed haphazardly.
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