General News
2 March, 2023
New era for Cairns Local News
Cairns Local News is undergoing a major transformation that includes a new masthead, a paper and website re-design, new business premises, and a new editor.
Managing director Carl Portella said the community was buzzing with excitement about the changes that were taking place, including the new look of Friday's edition, and what they could mean for the future of the publication.
“The new masthead is a modern, eye-catching design that represents the paper's commitment to providing its readers with the latest news and information,” he said.
“The design of the new look weekly publication is bold, fresh and contemporary, and it reflects the paper's determination to remain at the forefront of the industry.
“The new masthead will also be accompanied by a refresh of its website, making it easier for readers to access the latest news and features on the go.
“The new business premises are in the heart of the city in The Conservatory building, 12-14 Lake Street Cairns and are a testament to the paper's continued growth and success.”
Mr Portella said the appointment of new editor Nick Dalton was a significant part of the make-over.
“The new editor brings with him a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective that is sure to bring a new energy to the paper.
“Nick has a passion for journalism and a commitment to delivering the highest quality content to readers. He is also eager to build on the paper's growing reputation and continue to provide the community with the latest news and information in an engaging and accessible way.
“The make-over of Cairns Local News is an exciting step forward for the publication and a reflection of its commitment to remaining at the forefront of the industry.
“The new masthead, business premises, and editor are all part of a larger plan to deliver even more value to readers and to ensure the paper remains an important source of news and information for years to come.”
Mr Dalton said he was "delighted to part of a new era for the weekly newspaper and online presentations".
"I am looking forward to using my decades of journalistic experience, knowledge and understanding of the Cairns region to build on the success of Cairns Local News," he said.
"The essence of the publication is local news, not Townsville or Brisbane stories. There are so many great Cairns' stories we will share with our valued readers and advertisers.
"I thank Carl and his team for giving me the opportunity to return to a newspaper, where my grassroots are, and its associated digital reach across greater Cairns."
Paper manager Kathrine MacLean said the staff were “very excited about the new look of the paper and having Nick come on board as new editor to grow the team”.
“He brings a huge amount of experience and local knowledge and will bring extra depth and focus to our stories and allow us to be more proactive across the region,” she said.
“Having started out during COVID, it is especially pleasing to see the paper going from strength to strength and this new branding will help us to stand out and be more recognised as the independent local paper we are.”
