THE Mail Newspaper Group’s strong connections to its readers were celebrated at the Community Newspaper Awards on Friday night.
The Mail walked away with three awards, after being named a finalist in nine categories.
The first award of the night was scooped by the Mail, 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.
Her stories, one on the road toll and another about a dodgy car salesman were celebrated on the night despite Kath being home fighting a cold.
Judges said either of Kath’s stories could have won first place, but when considered together it seemed fair to award them joint winners.
Mail Editor Melissa Meehan said while awards weren’t everything, it was nice for others to recognise the hard work of her team.
“Kath Gannaway has been a major part of our team for a number of years, and to see her hard work rewarded is wonderful,” she said.
“We have a small team, but we work hard to bring our community quality journalism highlighting important issues that affect our readers.”
Sister papers also did well at the awards including the Pakenham Gazette, named the Best Newspaper (circulation under 30,000).
Awarded on Friday night, judges applauded the Gazette’s use of quality photography and thoughtful journalism as the reasons why the paper was so successful.
Beating other community newspapers in Tasmania, Victoria, South Australia and Western Australia, the Gazette’s well-researched features were described as well-presented. Real estate, motoring and classified sections enhanced the overall package.
Gazette editor Garry Howe’s piece on the media’s intrusion at funerals was also awarded first place in the Best Editorial category.
Judges said his editorial was both poignant and courageous and deserving of the winner’s title.
The Dandenong Journal was also awarded 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 was a significant level of commercial support, management had ensured there was still room for the very best journalism and photography that the newsroom could offer.
The Journal’s strong advertising sections, like Journal Property, were also celebrated.
Cranbourne News’ Bridget Cook was also awarded Best News Story for her front page article on the grubby swingers party planned for a children’s play centre.
Judges said Bridget’s story demonstrated the relevance of powerful, incisive reporting.
Sister paper Geelong Independent was also awarded Best Special Publication for their GC magazine; it was also awarded the National Award.
Judges described the magazines as crisp and vibrant as a sunny winter’s day.
