Our local journalists Jennie Lenman and Chris Guscott are off to the 34th Australian Commercial Radio & Audio (ACRA) Awards this October as finalists for ‘Best Local News Team’ with ARN’s 5MU and Power FM.
The award category recognises the work of journalists, news writers, readers and publishers in non-metro markets, involved in news or sports journalism across all platforms. It also acknowledges outstanding and engaging daily coverage of news at a local level.
The pair, both born and raised in South Australia, work out of Murray Bridge office, broadcasting to the significant provincial region in the growing Adelaide Hills, Murraylands and South Coast of the Fleurieu Peninsula.
They are in the running for a national prize, against three other teams; Canberra’s amplifyCBR team with Mix 106.3 (ARN) / Hit 104.7 (SCA); Mudgee (NSW)’s 2MG team (Super Radio Network) and Newcastle’s Triple M team (SCA).
General Manager Dave Shearer said its a well deserved recognition.
“I can’t overstate the importance our local news team in making 5MU and Power FM a fundamental part of the regional community. Jennie Lenman and Chris Guscott are tireless professionals who care deeply about that which effects their communities,” Dave Shearer said.
Content Director Adam Connelly said he is also thrilled for the station’s small but industrious newsroom.
“Teams don’t get smaller than two, but what we lack in number we more than compensate for with the incredibly talented Jennie Lenman and Chris Guscott,” Adam Connelly said.
Jennie and Chris work together to ensure the region is covered from Breakfast right through the day, in up-to-the minute police, crime and traffic stories, community issues and campaigns, politics, sport, events and arts.
Jennie takes the lead as Breakfast journalist and newsreader for 5MU and Power FM, while also co-hosting 5MU Breakfast show ‘Up & Adam’ with Adam Connelly.
She said she is excited to be invited to Sydney for the award ceremony this year.
“After passionately working in radio for 13 years, it’s such an honour to be recognised on the national stage along with my clever and supportive colleague Chris,” Jennie said.
Chris is a journalist, sports reporter and host of the State-wide Drive program ‘Around SA’ as well as 5MU’s Saturday Sports Show who provides support in producing news and sports stories.
He is also chuffed with the recognition.
“It’s a real joy to be recognised nationally for the work behind the scenes to keep locals up to date with what’s happening. Jennie is one of the most talented people I’ve worked with, and I’m lucky to be learning from her,” Chris said.
The 2023 ACRA Awards are being held at Sydney’s ICC on Saturday 14 October.
Ford Ennals, CEO of ACRA Award organiser Commercial Radio & Audio has congratulated all finalists.
“You’ve been acknowledged by your peers as being the best and the brightest in a thriving and creative commercial radio and audio industry,” Ford Ennals said.
“The 34th ACRA Awards will celebrate 100 years commercial radio in Australia. And while we honour a century of music, news, entertainment and connection, we crown those who are ensuring commercial radio’s continued vibrancy and relevance across Australia.”
