The Avon Valley and Wheatbelt Advocate has come a long way to become the weekly local paper we know it as today.
In November we will celebrate the publication’s 125th anniversary which initially operated as the Central Districts Advertiser.
After all those years we are still going strong to keep the community up to date with local news and events.
When applying for the position of journalist at the paper in November last year I often wondered how it was possible to fill a whole paper a week about a small community.
This thought quickly disappeared as I soon discovered all that was happening in not only Northam but the greater Avon Valley region.
I’ve met hardworking individuals and businesses that work tirelessly to better themselves and their community.
These are the stories our paper prides itself on; the stories of those who may be overlooked in the metropolitan area but are achieving things that are often hard to fathom.
Working at a regional newspaper was a no-brainer.
Although the digital news age has approached, people still appreciate holding a physical paper in their hands as they sit down in the morning with their cup of coffee.
At the Avon Valley and Wheatbelt Advocate we cater for both markets; those who see value in a physical paper and those who want the latest news at their fingertips.
The paper recently hit 5,000 followers on its Facebook page, an achievement that allows our readers to keep up to date with emergency situations but also share events happening within the community.
As journalist at Avon Valley and Wheatbelt Advocate I am looking forward to being a part of the 125th anniversary celebration.
It will give readers the chance to look back on the history of the area and recognise the growth that has taken place over that time.
This celebration is extra special considering the current news climate.
The recent announcement that Community News will be closing papers in the Northam district now means the Avon Valley and Wheatbelt Advocate, run by Fairfax Media, is the only Northam-based newspaper servicing the area.
Northam-based sales consultant Cheryl Wood and I thank you for your support of the paper and look forward to celebrating with you.
Opinion by journalist Eliza Wynn.