Tuesday, 18 November 2025

 Gaelle BROAD (Northern Victoria) (13:57): I was delighted to see journalists from across Northern Victoria celebrated in this year’s Rural Press Club of Victoria Rural and Regional Journalism and Photography Awards. There were more than 250 entries spanning newspapers, television, radio and online. I would like to congratulate the winners from our region, including photographer Darren Howe from the Bendigo Advertiser, who was crowned Photographer of the Year; and Chris Earl at the Loddon Herald, who was awarded Journalist of the Year and received the Community Champion Award. The award for coverage of a breaking news event went to the Bendigo Advertiser news team – well done. Congratulations to all those recognised in the awards, including Paula Mastrippolito of the Sunraysia Daily, Shannon Schubert of ABC Central Victoria, Dale Webster of the Regional, Andrew Mole of the Riverine Herald, Darren Chaitman of the Euroa Gazette and Alastair Finlay of the Sunraysia Daily. Accurate, independent reporting helps people make informed decisions, holds government to account and ensures local voices are heard in statewide debates. Quality journalism is vital to a healthy democracy, especially in regional communities. Keep up the great work.