Sunday Mail Reporter named SA's Journalist of the Year

Hunt had been honoured earlier in the night as Best Print Journalist, judged by the awards’ new Advisory Panel of senior journalists working in SA. The judges acknowledged Hunt’s extraordinary body of  work, which included an exclusive report on corruption within the SA Jockey Club, and recognised his extensive network of contacts and old-fashioned nose for a good story.

The ABC’s Kerry Staight was named best TV Broadcaster, while freelancer Sharon Mascall-Dare was named Best Radio Broadcaster.   Regional journalist Melissa Van der Haak, of Southern Cross Television, was named Young Journalist of the Year, also winning the Best Coverage of Rural/Regional Affairs.

The late Murray Nicoll was inducted into the SA Media Hallof Fame. The revered all-rounder and Dual Walkley Award winner, who died just weeks ago, was remembered in a moving tribute. His life’s work included some of the state’s most memorable moments, such as when he reported live for Radio 5DN from the 1983 Ash Wednesday bushfires in front of  his own burning house. He worked in newspapers, television and radio. His contribution to the industry and to young journalists was acknowledged by his Channel 7 colleagues and the journalists, young and old, gathered at the awards. His widow Franke accepted the posthumous award.

Twenty-eight bronze, silver and gold awards were presented at this year’s SA Media Awards, with winners coming from a wide range of media outlets, including The Sunday Mail, The Advertiser, ABC, Messenger Community News, The Islander, AAP, Network 10, Channel 9 and Southern Cross Television.

For the full list of winners click here. 

Journalist of the Year Nigel Hunt with Professor Kerry Green from sponsor the University of South Australia, at the 2010 SA Media Ball

Murray Nicoll's widow Franke accepting his Hall of Fame award from Chris Ward of sponsor Bank SA  

To view more photos of the evening go to the SA Media Ball page.