Young journalists set to experience the Ekka

UQ journalism students will report the fun, sights and stories of the 2010 Brisbane Exhibition alongside Nine News television professionals.

Under an exciting new internship partnership, students will be based at the purpose-built RNA newsroom and work with the network's reporters and producers.

Final semester Bachelor of Journalism students applied for the opportunity, which includes three weeks of intensive skills training before the Ekka gates open on August 5.

UQ students Philippa Coore and Sarah Greenhalgh, with the support of Alexandra Taylor, will join the Channel Nine News crew to report the sprawling event at the specially built Nine newsroom.

The students will be supervised by experienced producers and reporters and will create stories for broadcast and online purposes.

School of Journalism and Communication Journalist-in-Residence, John Austin, said the agreement took UQ's industry partnerships to a new level.

“Nine News is a great supporter and has provided many students with a genuine television news experience. However, the Ekka placements enable these interns to learn by doing the job of video reporters working to real production deadlines and requirements,” he said.

Nine News Director, Lee Anderson, said the network was looking forward to having the students on board.

“We are delighted to welcome the UQ interns to our broadcast centre. We are looking forward to having them give our reporters some fresh ideas on daily coverage, and hopefully give them some experience of what’s involved in reporting the news.”

The students said they couldn't wait to get their "hands dirty".

"I am so excited to be able to work with the Channel 9 team at one of Queensland’s biggest events of the year," Ms Coore said.

"This opportunity enables me to utilise my skills that I have learnt during my time at UQ."

For Ms Greenhalgh, the placement came as an unexpected surprise.

“I had planned to go to Europe, but due to unforeseen circumstances was unable to go, which actually worked out for the best. Instead of running with the bulls in Pamplona, I will instead be hanging out with the bulls at the RNA showgrounds.”

The Ekka runs from August 5–14 at the RNA Showgrounds. For more information, visit www.ekka.com.au

Media: John Austin (07 3346 8237, j.austin@uq.edu.au)