An extremely tough category to judge with such a wide variety of quality entries. A very small margin separated those at the top. The best of the best entries used clever design and contained strong, creative and relevant advertising. Engaging the reader is vital to the success of an advertising feature and the best entries used well produced visuals to keep the reader interested, encouraging them to return to the feature over and over for another read. Advertisers benefit from this readership, and they are more likely to support the feature again next year.

First - The Courier – Christmas feature

This 24-page Christmas feature ticks all the boxes for me. Strong and well produced advertising and a mix of quality editorial and photos of locals in their businesses make this a must-read for everyone in the hills at Christmas time. The centre spread calendar is easy to read and encourages locals to hold on to the feature and refer to it again and again. The standout for me was the magazine style layout and use of a bright white stock. The cartoon of Santa on the front page reading an edition of The Courier also shows extra creative flair. Well done to the team at The Courier.

Second – Murray Pioneer – Loxton Light Up Day

This 12-page feature uses many elements to engage the reader. Advertising is strong and creatively produced with the accompanying advertiser staff photos always a hit with readers who like to see who is working where. Editorial is relevant and cleverly laid out. The colouring competition engages readers, as does the ‘make your own salt dough’ section. The clean and easy to read event map and creatively produced front and back page add to this feature’s appeal. This feature would be an essential read for those attending the Loxton Light Up Day. Great work from the team at The Murray Pioneer.

Third – Murray Valley Standard – RMFL 2025 Grand Final

Football grand final features can be difficult to sell and produce due to time constraints and the team at The Murray Valley Standard have done a great job with this 12-page grand final guide. Solid advertising supports very strong editorial content covering all grades in the River Murray Football League. Photography is excellent and the inclusion of the league awards photos is a great addition. The easy-to-read centre spread with the senior teams is well produced and gets the reader emotionally involved as they picture the match ups for the big day. An excellent feature from the team at The Murray Valley Standard.