ABC journalists, photographers, and camera operators have emerged as the standout winners at the Quill Awards for excellence in Victorian journalism throughout 2025. The media organization secured victories in more than a dozen of the 30 categories, showcasing the breadth and depth of its reporting talent.
Among the notable honorees was veteran journalist Heather Ewart, who was awarded the Melbourne Press Club Lifetime Achievement award. Ewart’s illustrious career spans roles as a political reporter and overseas correspondent, and she is currently known for presenting the ABC TV series Back Roads, which highlights stories from rural Australia.
Breaking News and Investigative Triumphs
Regional reporter Ashlee Aldridge was recognized for her outstanding work in breaking news, winning the Best Breaking News or Live Coverage award. Her swift and comprehensive reporting on the fatal shooting of two police officers by alleged gunman Dezi Freeman in Porepunkah was a standout moment in Victorian journalism for 2025.
“Her coverage spoke to the frantic and unpredictable nature of the incident, to the fear gripping locals, and to the profound sadness and shock experienced once it became clear two police officers had been killed,” the judges commented.
In the realm of investigative journalism, Adele Ferguson and Chris Gillett were awarded for their 7.30 investigation into childcare failures at daycare provider Affinity. Their meticulous reporting, which also involved Ben Butler and Lara Sonnonschein, earned them the Grant Hattam Quill for Investigative Journalism. Ferguson’s contributions were further recognized with the Graham Perkin Australian Journalist of the Year award.
Spotlight on Social Issues
The Quill Awards also highlighted ABC’s dedication to covering pressing social issues. Marnie Vinall was honored for her coverage of women in sports, specifically focusing on the challenges faced by the Kyneton Women’s Football Team. Similarly, Sarah Lawrence received accolades for her work on Indigenous Affairs Reporting. Her story, Crisis on Country: Inside the Neglected Village of Cummeragunja, shed light on the housing challenges faced by Aboriginal communities in Victoria and New South Wales.
In the Science, Medical, and Health Reporting category, Rachel Carbonell, Loretta Florance, and Ninah Kopel were recognized for their investigation into whistleblower evidence on zinc sunscreen products. Their work exemplifies the critical role of journalism in public health and safety.
Impactful Regional and Disability Reporting
Reporters Bec Symons and Danielle Pope were awarded for their impactful reporting in Regional and Rural Journalism, which directly led to state government action and changes at LaTrobe Regional Hospital. Meanwhile, Jessica Longbottom, Ben Butler, and Danielle Bonica’s investigation into the National Disability Insurance Scheme highlighted systemic failures and gave voice to vulnerable participants.
“Their multi-platform series challenged stigma and highlighted systemic failures to detail the real-life experiences … faced by some of the most vulnerable people in our society,” the judges noted.
Excellence in Audio and Visual Media
ABC’s prowess in audio media was also celebrated, with Rachael Brown winning the Podcasting award and the 774 ABC Melbourne Mornings team securing the Radio Current Affairs prize. Their impactful segment addressed the issue of squatters moving into a Melbourne woman’s property after her address was posted online.
In visual media, Elise Kinsella, Rachael Brown, and Ben Knight were recognized in the News Story — TV and Video category. Simon Winter’s outstanding camera work for an Australian Story episode about Louisa Ioannidis, who was found dead in a creek in 2011, was also honored.
Emerging Talent and Other Notable Wins
Charlotte Wilkes was named the 2025 Victorian Student Journalist of the Year for her investigative story on misconduct allegations against two male massage therapists. ABC journalists who were highly commended in multiple Quills categories included Gillian Aeria, Lachlan Bennett, and several others, showcasing the network’s depth of talent.
Outside of ABC, Herald Sun reporter Robyn Riley won the prestigious Gold Quill for her exclusive story about an IVF mix-up, while Selina Zhang from 9News was named Young Journalist of the Year.
The Quill Awards once again underscore the vital role of journalism in society, highlighting stories that challenge, inform, and inspire change. As ABC continues to set a high bar for excellence, the impact of these stories resonates far beyond the awards themselves, influencing public discourse and policy.
