BREAKING: The Newcastle Herald has just been recognized with multiple prestigious awards at the 2025 ACM Excellence Awards held in Sydney on December 9, 2025. Notably, crime reporter Anna Falkenmire was named Young Journalist of the Year, while the publication also clinched News Story of the Year and Photo of the Year among other accolades.
This recognition underscores the exceptional journalism that resonates deeply within the community, a crucial achievement in today’s fast-paced media landscape. Falkenmire earned her award for her gripping crime and court reporting, which has given a voice to victims and their families, demonstrating the profound impact of human-centered storytelling.
Photographer Peter Lorimer received News Photo of the Year for his poignant capture during the memorial service for shooting victim Ekampreet Singh Sahni. The judges highlighted how Lorimer’s work brought viewers close to the raw grief of the moment without intrusion, showcasing the skill required in visual journalism.
Journalist Gabriel Fowler took home News Story of the Year for her investigative reporting on illegal boarding houses, revealing exploitative practices and prompting governmental action. The judges remarked that her thorough investigation “shone a light in a dark and legally complex place,” reflecting the essential role of journalism in holding power accountable.
Additionally, journalist Sage Swinton was highly commended for her heartfelt feature on a local hairdresser’s battle with cancer, illustrating the human side of news that connects communities. Real estate reporter Jade Lazarevic also received commendation for her coverage of the $30 million Whale Beach mansion owned by former Miss Universe Jen Hawkins and her husband, Jake Wall.
Lisa Allan, editor of the Newcastle Herald, expressed pride in the team’s achievements, stating, “These honours reflect the depth of talent across the entire team.” Allan emphasized the importance of journalism in driving meaningful change within the community and thanked subscribers and advertising partners for their ongoing support.
ACM’s editorial director Rod Quinn praised the winning journalists, stating, “In these days of robots and fakery, our journalists put themselves in places where our readers cannot go.” He highlighted the vital role of journalism in democracy, emphasizing its importance now more than ever.
With these accolades, the Newcastle Herald not only celebrates individual accomplishments but also reaffirms its commitment to high-quality journalism that serves and informs the community effectively. As the media landscape evolves, these awards signify a dedication to excellence that resonates with readers seeking reliable and impactful news.
Expect more updates as these talented journalists continue to shape the narrative of their community. Share this incredible recognition and celebrate the power of journalism today!
