A dinner was held on December 7 to formally farewell Ian and Wanda Dunnet, former proprietors of The Courier, Gunnedah Times, Wee Waa News and North West Magazine.
The function, held at the Tourist Hotel, was organised by colleagues Sue Newton and Robyn Collett and attended by present and some former staff members.
Managing editor Dylan Smith, gave a speech acknowledging the Dunnet family and the role Ian and Wanda have played in serving the community over the years, continuing the tradition of Ian’s forbears, since his grandfather, John Shearer Dunnet purchased the business in 1920.
Ian and Wanda both responded thanking those present and former colleagues, saying newspaper life is unique and requires a special type of commitment.
It is indeed people who make the papers what they are.
Methods, mediums and technology have revolutionised the business in recent times, however, the uniqueness of the newspaper is that they are produced by people, for people, especially at the local level, and no amount of technology can replace the personal dedication and engagement the papers’ staff provides.
Ian and Wanda spoke of their immense gratitude to their colleagues, and their pride in what they as a team, had produced, and continue to do so.
New owners, Collective Media proprietors, Mark and Susie Slack-Smith, along with the staff are dedicated to continuing the tradition.
In retirement Ian and Wanda will remain in Narrabri, their home town.
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