Meet new Southern Free Times journalist Jess Baker…

New Free Times journalist Jess Baker.

The Free Times is delighted to welcome our new journalist, Jess Baker, who commenced with us last week – and she has well and truly hit the ground running. Jess will soon become a familiar face as she moves around the region covering all aspects of local news and events along with editor Jeremy Sollars. We’re sure the community will extend Jess a warm welcome, as does the Free Times team!

Jess writes…

“I was 12 years old when I decided I wanted to be a journalist.

I was – and still am – completely obsessed with words and the way they fit together to tell stories.

One of my fondest childhood memories is from Grade Six, when my Dad (an ex-journalist) helped me produce an elaborate documentary about the history of television. We spent hours researching, writing, filming and editing – I learned to love the way information could be sculpted into stories.

Upon discovering some people actually make a living out of storytelling, I knew I wanted to pursue it. After graduating high school, I dove into a four-year course at university studying both a Bachelor of Journalism and a Bachelor of Business (Economics). Whilst studying, I worked several jobs and interned at a number of different TV and radio stations, writing all the while.

I am thrilled to say that I am, as of last week, a journalist at the Free Times.

Though originally from Brisbane, I have now relocated to Warwick with my partner Jack. I am excited to learn more about the Southern Downs and its community, to get to know more people, and to grow as a journalist. I have only been in Warwick a short while, but I have noticed a wonderful sense of community spirit here that makes for a really friendly welcome.

Having spent time writing and presenting for a community radio station in Brisbane, I understand the importance of being a strong voice for the community. I care passionately about celebrating the good, highlighting the bad and providing essential news and information to residents of the region. I am grateful to be joining a team that holds the same values to be true.

I look forward to discovering more about my new home, and getting to know the faces of Warwick and Stanthorpe.”

Jess