OPINION
The primary aim of The Greater Springfield Times is to advance “public interest journalism” – that is, to regularly publish stories that invigorate broader discussion topics important to the local community. And that matters.
Dr Jay Thompson of The University of Melbourne says this kind of journalism is “integral to a healthy democracy” by promoting public awareness of the actions of government and business.
The Greater Springfield Times does just that – every day.
Since relaunching post-COVID in September last year, the magazine has routinely covered essential subjects: health, disability support, education, environment, housing, infrastructure and roads, emergency services, technology, business, media, data, government funding, and even politics.
Speaking personally, we have a passion for uncovering truth in our ever complicated world – especially in an era of widespread misinformation and increasing distrust in responsible, credible journalism – and so reporting facts is paramount.
That said, our motto is to help celebrate what makes Greater Springfield a great place to live. And we certainly do that, by highlighting the positive actions of community members wherever possible.
And there is a very good reason we do this.
The media landscape is, as one would expect, full of bad news – and at its worst, extremely negative and sensationalised (i.e. “clickbait”) – which drives audience engagement and thus revenue. This tends to make people feel increasingly helpless and resentful.
But it also completely misses half the story: the good news.
Greater focus needs to be given to good, constructive efforts of residents that are making a real difference, and which in turn inspire others.
And that, in our view, is equally important to a healthy democracy.
Here are some recent examples of our public interest journalism:
Health
Plot twist resolution for growing family
Car lovers revved up about men’s health
Sweet support for strong-willed mum
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Disability support
Special focus on desperately needed schooling
The ability to inspire
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Education
Building up Springfield’s education network
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Environment
Endangered glider populations need new homes
Lure of competition has environmental angle
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Housing
Tall order for looming boom
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Infrastructure and roads
Potholes… there’s an app for that
Bus service expands coverage for Indigenous students
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Emergency services
Baptism of fire for emergency services site
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Technology
Biotech facility a big boost for Springfield
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Business
‘Field’ of dreams: our city turns 30
‘Catalyst’ for exchange
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Media
Springfield now has its own radio station
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Data
Greater insight: Springfield’s Census 2021 results
Mixed takeaway from food waste trial
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Government funding
It’s a slow road to a better, safer city: 2022-2023 Council budget
Greater transparency in development
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Politics
Councillor Jonic opens up about alleged cannabis incident in her youth
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