Regional talent recognised

Harding was one of five finalists for the prestigious Journalist of the Year award, while Zammit was among five finalists for Canon Photographer of the Year.

The awards attracted 200 entries from journalists and news photographers across 60 newsrooms throughout rural and regional Victoria.

While neither took home the top prize, both were recognised for their work across their respective categories, with Harding receiving two Commended recognitions and Zammit receiving one Highly Commended and one Commended recognition.

Harding said the night was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the talent and dedication of journalists and photographers working across regional Victoria.

“The Melbourne Town Hall was packed with so many talented reporters from across the state; we were in highly esteemed company,” she said.

"I feel honoured to have been named among the top five for Journalist of the Year, particularly when I saw the calibre of journalists and their work that I was up against, and also to be one of five finalists for Best Sports Story, particularly because I’m not a sports journalist.

“That’s the beauty of a regional newsroom; you aren’t confined to one beat or one genre of storytelling, you get to spread your wings, which means the job is never boring.”

Zammit agreed, saying it was an an honour to be up against some of the best photographers in Victoria.

“It was a lot of fun catching up with other nominees after the event and being able to network with like-minded people,” she said.

“It was also lovely to share this special occasion with my fellow colleagues and friends.”