Guardian Australia’s Ben Smee and a team from SBS have been named joint winners of the prestigious Journalist of the Year award at Queensland’s annual media awards, the Clarions. The accolade was awarded for their compelling investigation titled In the Box: Inside the Isolation Cells where Australian Kids are Imprisoned, which shed light on the harrowing conditions faced by children in Queensland police watch houses.
Smee, the Queensland state correspondent for Guardian Australia, collaborated with SBS journalists Jennifer Luu, Jodie Noyce, and Chloe Angelo to produce this groundbreaking documentary. The investigation revealed the plight of children, some as young as 11, detained in facilities designed for adults. The documentary featured exclusive footage of these children enduring harsh conditions in tiny, freezing-cold isolation cells lacking basic amenities such as mattresses, toilets, or windows.
Investigative Journalism at Its Core
The Clarion judges praised In the Box for embodying the fundamental principles of investigative journalism. They stated,
“This groundbreaking investigation into children being locked-up in Queensland watch houses combined compelling vision and high production values with well-researched and impactful storytelling. It showcased the value of developing contacts over a long period to source exclusive material and interviews.”
The documentary not only won the top award but also secured the prize for social issues reporting. Judges commended Smee’s dedication to exploring the complexities of youth crime and systemic failures in Queensland over the past few years.
Acknowledging Excellence in Journalism
Smee’s exceptional work extended beyond In the Box. His insightful analysis of the Queensland election earned him the award for commentary, analysis, opinion, and critique. The judges highlighted his ability to balance factual journalism with engaging opinion writing, describing his style as “clear” and “elegant.”
Meanwhile, Guardian Australia reporter Ella Archibald-Binge was recognized for her reporting on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander issues. Her work on Queensland’s truth-telling inquiry and stolen wages, conducted during her tenure at the ABC, earned her this significant accolade.
The Significance of the Clarion Awards
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Clarion awards, organized by the Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance. The awards celebrate “fearless reporting, innovation, and a deep commitment to public interest journalism,” drawing over 330 entries across 28 categories. The recognition of Smee and his colleagues underscores the importance of investigative journalism in addressing critical social issues.
Implications and Future Directions
The revelations from In the Box have sparked discussions about the treatment of young offenders in Queensland and the need for reform in the justice system. The investigation has highlighted systemic issues that require urgent attention from policymakers and advocates for children’s rights.
As the conversation continues, Smee and his team remain committed to uncovering stories that hold power to account and advocate for those without a voice. Their work exemplifies the impact of journalism in driving social change and ensuring accountability.
The Clarion awards not only celebrate individual achievements but also reinforce the vital role of journalism in society. As Smee and his colleagues continue their investigative work, they set a benchmark for excellence and integrity in the field.
