A Trip To Murray Bridge Proves Independent Media Is Telling The Stories From Your Backyard
Local and independent publishers from across Australia, including yours truly, made their way to Murray Bridge last week for the Local & Independent News Association (LINA) Summit, hosted by LINA and co-hosted by Murray Bridge News.
With Murray Bridge News managing editor Peri Strathearn part of the hosting team, the event brought together publishers from across the country, and one thing was clear – local news is far from dead. If anything, it’s growing.
More than 170 independent newsrooms are now part of LINA, with many run by small teams, or in some cases, a single person reporting on their entire community.
It was a refreshing change to step out from behind the home-office keyboard, pop on a pair of bras, slap on some lippy and sit alongside so many passionate publishers from across the country. Even better, was the reminder that we’re all working towards the same goal – keeping local voices strong in a media landscape largely dominated by big players like News Corp Australia.
More Than Just Media Talk
Across three days, conversations focused on how to keep small newsrooms sustainable, how to build audiences, and how to make sure regional communities aren’t left behind. But the biggest takeaway wasn’t about tech or trends, it was about people.
It’s about the people telling stories in small towns. The people showing up to community events. The people making sure local wins, challenges and voices are seen and heard – because without independent media, who’s telling those stories?
LINA Executive Director Claire Stuchbery said many independent publishers are working in isolation, often as the only journalist in their region.
That’s where LINA jumps in, providing support, resources and a network that helps outlets like us at Greater SA keep going. And that support is crucial, because independent media is more than news, it’s about connection, accountability and community.
Backing The Stories That Matter
So next time you see a local story, a community post, or a small publication pop up online, or appear in your local shop or letter box, give it a read, share it and support it.
There are a lot of small operators out there doing some incredible work, and they’re worth backing.
For more information about LINA and its initiatives, visit lina.org.au.
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