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