Finding a story

A journalist is always gathering news, “hungry” and curious about pursuing stories. I’m totally aware of my small appetite.

This semester I’ve learnt that good contacts are the best source of news, and this was emphasized by Illawarra Mercury’s Paul McInerney who encouraged us to take care of our contacts, continually messaging them by keeping in touch.

Tiffen (1989, p. 31) cites four main channels of news:
1. ‘tip-offs’ from social agencies and the public about ‘spot news’ (accidents, fires, natural occurring events)

2. the promotional activities of sources

3. pre-scheduled public events (from sport, court hearings, demonstrations)

4. following up stories that have already appeared in media, especially by gathering reactions through interviews

However 64% of stories are said to originate from media releases and PR activity.

Sniffing out stories was difficult. I quickly learnt that the ability to be able to write a story doesn’t count for much if you haven’t got anything to write about. In able to find stories I had to be well read and on top of current affairs. Shawn made a point of this by quizzing us on the week’s headlines. My contribution was woeful.

Memo to self: start watching the ‘7.30 Report’.