27 August 2012

Two students in UQ's School of Journalism and Communication, Carl Smith and Alison Francis, have won prestigious Clarion Awards.

They were named the Most Outstanding Journalism Students at a presentation ceremony on Saturday 25 August, celebrating journalistic excellence in Queensland.

In extending her congratulations to all of the nominated students, Acting Head of School Rhonda Breit commended the outstanding dedication of both staff and students.

"We have an outstanding cohort of students here at UQ and a very dedicated staff, who are committed to quality journalism.

"It gives us great pleasure to see our students receiving recognition for their hard work and creativity.

"Over the past few years, the staff at SJC have worked very hard to develop a program of study that provides creative students with the opportunities and support to do excellent work.

"I am incredibly proud of the students and honoured to work with such a hard-working staff who are committed to producing the future leaders of journalism."

Carl Smith won the Most Outstanding Journalism Student – Metropolitan category for his radio program Humans, Robots and the Future.

Judges comments were effusive.

The comments were: “Carl Smith’s 30 minute documentary for ABC Radio National’s 'Future Tense' program was an original, sophisticated and insightful piece of journalism. He combined impressive international research, engaging writing and polished production to cover the topic. Carl shows a great understanding of the medium by using music and natural sound, in addition to interviews, to tell the story. His conversational delivery was perfect for the piece. He has a promising future ahead of him.”

Alison Francis won the Most Outstanding Journalism Student - Regional for her article entitled Refugee Problem Becomes Solution for Regional Employer.

Comments were: “Alison Francis' article succinctly explored the skills crisis in Biloela and the opportunities it presented to Burmese refugees with depth and care. The maturity in the writing from a student journalist covering a potentially divisive topic was also noted by the judges. Comments from refugees were paired with solid research to illustrate a view on an often-overlooked part of regional Queensland.”

Alexander Tamayo was highly commended in the Most Outstanding Journalism Student – Metropolitan for his radio program Hitting a full stop: The Protests of the 'Truth Truck for Children' and LGBT activists held in Brisbane

“Alexander Tamayo’s … vibrant long-format radio story captured a protest about same-sex marriage in Brisbane’s CBD. By combining great natural sound and strong interviews he delivered a balanced, timely and engaging piece of journalism.”

Five SJC students - Alison Francis, Leah White, Carl Smith, Rhian Deutrom and Alexander Tamayo—were nominated for their quality journalism, and commitment to excellence in media coverage.

Media: Siena Perry, telephone 07 3346 8285 or email: siena.perry@uq.edu.au