The program provides a six-month paid fellowship for a budding young journalist to experience the dynamics of the McPherson Media newsroom, with the Melbourne Press Club providing mentorship with an established and experienced journalist.
To date, three local young people have participated in and benefited from the program and have built their skills, experience and knowledge around basic interviewing, reporting, writing, working with photographers, collaborating and understanding community issues.
The most recent fellow, Pip Turton, said the following about her experience with the fellowship:
“The Regional Youth Journalism Fellowship has been the most rewarding experience.
It’s given me real-world newsroom experience, the chance to report on meaningful local stories and the confidence to pursue journalism long-term.
From meeting the Victorian premier to covering community issues, every day has offered something new, and it all started with taking a chance on this opportunity.”
Pip has also recorded an informative and inspirational podcast regarding her experience learning from McPherson Media journalists to deliver local news.
I encourage anyone interested in this opportunity to listen to this podcast, which can be found on our website at greatershepparton.foundation/regional-youth-journalism-fellowship
For the final candidate for this year, we are looking for a young person with a passion for writing and an interest in journalism.
The fellowship can be flexible with starting dates — the successful candidate may wish to commence later this year or at the beginning of 2026.
If this sounds like an opportunity for you, or a young school leaver you know, please reach out via email at info@greatershepparton.foundation for more information.
Until next time.
Amanda McCulloch
Greater Shepparton Foundation executive officer
