An Ekka-ordinary experience

Three young UQ journalists experienced the other side of this year’s Ekka after a successful stint as reporters for Channel Nine.

Final-year Bachelor of Journalism students Sarah Greenhalgh, Philippa Coore and Alex Taylor filed dozens of stories as interns for the network during the 10-day event.

“We were very much accepted as part of the Nine team and our footage was often used for their main bulletin,” Ms Greenhalgh said.

Based in the purpose-built RNA newsroom, the group was supervised by UQ Industry Consultant Bruce Redman who shot the stories and assisted with editing and post-production.

Mr Redman, a 30-year television industry veteran, was impressed with the standard of work the students produced.

“They were right in there among the crowds, the cows and even the political celebrities. Some nights we worked until almost midnight just to get the story done,” he said.

The stories were uploaded to the Ekka’s official website, ninemsn.com, YouTube and the School of Journalism and Communication’s own digital news site.

“It was truly an invaluable experience – we had the opportunity to engage in practical work and experience daily deadline pressures. As a result, I gained a real insight into the world of online and TV
news broadcasting,” Ms Greenhalgh said.

In addition to the antics of sideshow alley and entertainment in the main ring, the students received a surprise lesson in political reporting courtesy of the Federal Election.

Former Labor leader Mark Latham confronted Prime Minister Julia Gillard on the campaign trail, sending the media into a frenzy.

“We were right in the middle of the media pack with the PM and Mark Latham, which became the story of the day,” Ms Coore said.

Mr Redman said the school hoped to extend the Ekka experience next year to include radio, print and online internship opportunities.

Media: Bruce Redman (07 3346 8254, b.redman@uq.edu.au)