Natasha Griggs (Solomon, Country Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Thank you, Mr Deputy Speaker, and congratulations on your new position. As all members of parliament know, our local media are an important part of our community, although relationships between our two groups are sometimes strained. I have not always enjoyed a good relationship with the iconic Northern Territory Newsbut, regardless, recognition must be given for outstanding achievement.

Recently, the Northern Territory Newswon the Pacific Area Newspaper Publishers' Association, PANPA, marketing branding section with its innovative Obama hat promotion, which coincided with President Obama's visit to Darwin. Northern Territory Newseditor, Matt Cunningham, won the PANPA Hegarty award, recognising young newspaper executives. This award provides a bursary of $10,000 to him for an overseas trip, to build his knowledge of the global news business. Matt is a hard-working, modest editor who gave credit for his win to the whole of his Northern Territory News team. I congratulate Matt and trust he will continue his good work.

To top it all off, the Northern Territory Newswas named Brand of the Year at News Limited's annual awards. This award replaced the Newspaper of the Year award, as it now includes newspapers, websites and magazines. The general manager of Northern Territory News, Scott James, said that this award is recognition of the tireless work of the entire Northern Territory Newsteam. Congratulations to you all. Once again, the Territory leads the way. (Time expired)