Sunshine Coast papers to close; Maroochy Journal, Caloundra and Noosa Journals

[Fares_Fair]

Weekender magazines go as well.

News Limited today announced that it will cease publication of three community
newspapers and three weekly magazines on Queensland's Sunshine Coast.
The Noosa Journal and Weekender were acquired by News Limited in 2006 and 2007
respectively and extended to include local editions in Maroochydore and Caloundra
subsequently. The stable also includes two property magazines.
Next week's editions will be their last.
News Limited's managing director of newspapers and digital products Jerry Harris said:
"It is with regret that we are closing these titles, but with continuing slow trading
conditions on the Sunshine Coast the reality is that they are no longer commercially
viable.

I have received much support from these papers in highlighting Sunshine Coast rail issues over the years.
It's very sad to see the loss of 30 odd jobs.

Thank you to the Maroochy Journal journalist who has done so much for Sunshine Coast commuter rail issues.
Some things are priceless.

[ozbob]

Sad day for the Sunshine Coast, and wider journalism generally.  The progressive movement of some of the main players behind paid firewalls (as has happened with some publications ) means that access to current regional news will be further restricted.  As the present main agencies become more focussed on the buck I do think that new publications will begin to arise and fill the gaps left.  The ABC must be laughing as firewalls appear.

[Stillwater]

The competition among the three Journal newspapers and the rival community publications produced by the Sunshine Coast Daily made for lively coverage of local issues and a drive to get a better story.  The Journals had good stories prepared by talented people.  I wish them well.

[ozbob]

Blog comment --> here!

I too would like to publicly thank Sherine and all the team at the Maroochy Journal for their ongoing support of community issues, including the appalling situation with public transport and the Sunshine Coast railway line. Thanks. The battle continues ... Robert Dow RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

[Fares_Fair]