Sharon Claydon (Newcastle, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise to congratulate Matthew Kelly, senior journalist with the Newcastle Herald, for winning a Walkley Award in the community and regional affairs category for his impactful series on the enigmatic Alwyn Craig. Alwyn spent 30 years on Newcastle streets, lost to his family and friends, struggling with PTSD following the Vietnam War. Matthew Kelly's coverage of Alwyn's life was compassionate and compelling, exposing the reality of homelessness and putting a human face on those too often overlooked. Remarkably, the Kelly series led to Alwyn Craig being reunited with his family after three decades of heartache. Matthew Kelly's work exemplifies journalism at its best. In an age where local stories are often overlooked, he consistently highlights the voices of regional communities like mine. I was delighted to recently host an afternoon tea with Alwyn Craig, his brother Ronald, his sister-in-law June, Hayley Catford from RSL LifeCare veterans' services and John Cross from City Sleep Safe. I had the privilege to present Alwyn with two certificates of appreciation as part of the Australian government's Saluting Their Service program, belatedly recognising his military service in Vietnam and Singapore.

This Walkley Award celebrates Matthew's exceptional journalism. It serves as a reminder of the vital role regional journalism plays in our communities and Australia's democracy in ensuring that every voice is heard. Congratulations, Matthew Kelly. Your Walkley Award is very well-deserved.