What was your first job as a journalist?
A cadet at the Armidale Express. It was a fantastic opportunity at a regional newspaper in an interesting town.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes, once, as part of an autumn festival float.
How is social media changing news?
It provides audiences with access to more outlets and information than ever before, while also failing to adequately moderate misinformation.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
I don't really have one. I try to stay away from work-related fiction!
What does it mean to be a journalist?
It's hard, but a privileged role to be in, something we often take for granted in the industry.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
Via email rather than cold calls.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Office and Google suites, DeepL for translation, and a Sony voice recorder.
What's your favorite social network?
Twitter.
Who do you wish followed you?
I just hope I'm interesting enough for my current followers!
Why did you become a journalist?
A general interest in the world and desire to write about it.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
My high school did not have a newspaper.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
Coverage of the 2014 North Stradbroke Island bushfires. It was tough, but I hope it provided vital information to those in need.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
I don't feel qualified to offer any; entering the industry now compared to when I did is very different! All I can say is good luck.
When's the best time to pitch you?
Early in the week during office hours.
What's the best pitch you ever got?
I'll be forever thankful to those who trusted me with their stories about a priest accused of child abuse.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
My city in Queensland shared the named of a city in California. I appreciated the invite to a new bar in Hollywood, but had to decline.
What's your favorite drink?
It's not very fun to say water, but there it is. After that, probably a cold Bentspoke beer on a hot summer day.
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
In front of the TV, walking or cycling around the neighbourhood.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
CBC, Brisbane Times or The Guardian.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
How much of it boils down to "hurry up and wait".
