The quality and number of entries this year reveal that the standard of young regional Journalists in SA is very healthy. All entries exhibited good work and the difference between most individuals was relatively small. The better entries were not only well written, but they exhibited good photographs which not only complimented their work, but strengthened it. Similar to last year, it was difficult to separate the top four, and several others were very close behind. The entries reflected an understanding of the communities which the individual Journalists serve and the issues which affect those communities. Stories were well written and offered clear perspectives and insights into the issues they covered. Given the challenging media environment in which most Journalists operate and the expectations they carry to produce a quantity of work each week, it’s encouraging to see the standards being achieved. It will be that commitment to higher standards which will continue to separate the best young Journalists from their peers, as their careers develop.

Alexandra Bull and Gretal Mead were strong contenders in the final four this year. Alexandra is from the Murray Pioneer and is clearly committed to uphold the reputation of this paper. She has a strong work ethic and has been given the responsibility of a senior role with the paper’s special publications. Her entries were diverse and covered subjects from health, to emergencies, agriculture, sport and special features. Gretal writes for The Leader and she demonstrates a good news sense and versatility in her work. Her entries reflected a capacity to report on diverse subjects, in a comprehensive and nuanced way. Her writing revealed insight and it had impact. Both Alexandra and Gretal were hot on the heels of the two Journalists who led this year’s field on entrants.

Patrick Goldsmith is this year’s runner-up and produces strong work. Patrick works for the Yorke Peninsula Country Times and like many of his fellow entrants, covers a diversity of stories and sets high standards. His interest in Politics was clear from a series of articles he produced about the visit of ‘Country Cabinet’ to the region. He capably interviewed a range of Ministers and the Premier about key issues. Patrick excelled in his coverage of sport, producing a Grand Final lift-out feature, of a standard which would have looked at home in a metropolitan paper. He appears passionate about sport, writing engaging match reports, with insights from coaches, and supported by his own good photography.

The best Young Regional Journalist this year is Imogen Evans from the Gawler Bunyip. She is a genuine local who grew up with what she describes as a passion for storytelling. That was clearly demonstrated in her entries, which showed a strong sense and belief in the power of localism. Her stories reflect a keenness to explore key subjects areas and to follow up as those stories develop. Imogen says she wants to make a difference, with her articles on subjects like first responders, reconciliation week and road safety revealing that good storytelling can raise awareness and lead to meaningful change. Her stories had impact, driven by strong examples, revealing quotes and compelling writing. Imogen demonstrates a standard of work which makes her a very worthy winner of Young Journalist of the year for 2023.