Ms Allison's series of stories and podcasts entitled ‘Homelessness: A 21st Century Tragedy’ detailed Greater Shepparton's homelessness crisis, speaking with a number of affected individuals along with support services and local politicians to illustrate the true scope of the issue.
Quill judges referred to her "meticulous attention to evidence based research" in their citation.
“This is great advocacy journalism, dealt with sensitively and highlighting the need for increased social housing in regional Victoria,” the citation read.
“A worthy winner of the Father Bob Maguire Foundation Cobberwealth Award, which recognises and encourages reporting that contributes to social inclusion.”
The prize includes a return ticket to San Francisco - COVID-19 permitting - to visit The Glide Foundation, which works to curb suffering and breaking cycles of poverty and marginalisation.
Ms Allison was also highly commended for her entry in the Regional and Rural Journalism Quill for her series ‘Her Voice, Our Voice'.
The series ran across the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, telling a string of heart-breaking stories of women who had suffered from such violence.
Ms Allison gave the credit for her prestigious award to the people who had so openly shared their stories with her.
“I’m so honoured to receive this award and thankful to the Melbourne Press Club and the Father Bob Maguire Foundation for seeking to highlight homelessness reporting,” she said.
“This wouldn’t have been possible without the incredibly supportive Shepparton News team and, above all, the Shepparton people who shared their stories with me with courage and honesty. Voices like these are so crucial in bringing an end to Victoria’s homelessness crisis.”
McPherson Media Group director content and audience Christine Anderson was full of praise for Ms Allison.
“The McPherson Media Group is so proud of Charmayne and the rich, thought-provoking and sensitive work she produces for the entire Goulburn Valley,” she said.
“The community is so lucky to have such a committed journalist set on exploring the major challenges currently facing society. Charmayne is the perfect example of the McPherson Media Group's commitment to outstanding journalism in the region.”
