‘Real-life’ portrayals of older people win media awards

Queensland media figures were recognised for their positive portrayal of older people at the 2006 Older People Speak Out Media Awards.

Communities Minister Warren Pitt said the prestigious awards identified the achievements of a number of Queensland media workers who accurately portrayed the contributions that older people made to their communities.

“The Older People Speak Out awards applaud media professionals who have demonstrated excellence in portraying older people positively and accurately,” Mr Pitt said.

“Some media outlets present out-dated stereotypes of older Queenslanders as individuals who have been somehow diminished by ageing.

“In fact, older people often play an enormous role in their communities but this is not always obvious, at least not from media coverage.

“That’s why I’m delighted to congratulate those journalists, columnists, photographers and camera people who have been nominated for awards for their fair and balanced portrayal of older Australians.”

The Older People Speak Out media awards were presented in Brisbane by Mr Ronan Lee, Member for Indooroopilly and Parliamentary Secretary to Mr Pitt.

Mr Lee said Older People Speak Out was a community organisation that promoted positive ageing and the contributions that older people made to the community.

The Queensland Government sponsored the awards which featured national and Queensland categories. OPSO Queensland award winners for 2006:

Queensland regional and bi-weekly newspapers: Jocelyn Watts; “More sex please, we’re older”, Fraser Coast Chronicle; Kathleen Skene, “Bush memorial”, Herbert River Express.

Queensland television news and public affairs: Chris Pace, “Stunned mullets”, Seven Local News, SevenSunshineCoast.

Queensland print media photography: Robyne Cuerel, “Gender War”, News Mail (Bundaberg).

Queensland senior-specific newsletter articles: Lockyer Valley National Seniors, “Henrietta’s birthday”, NSA Gatton & Lockyer Valley Branch Newsletter; Burdekin Community Association, “The value of struggle”, Round-a-Bout for Seniors.

Queensland inter-generational journalism – print, electronic or photo: Brooke Falvey, “Bionic woman wants wishes to be heard”, Westside News – Quest Community Newspapers.

Queensland radio news, interview and current affairs: Pat Morrish, “Callum and Kate’s – and a determined 76-year-old”, ABC Radio Far North.

Queensland daily newspapers: Peter Morley, “From suicide bid to Samaritan – the big dry”, The Courier Mail

Media contact: Joe Begley 3235 4286