It is with mixed emotions I write this letter to be printed in this, the last edition of The Courier that is published by the Dunnet family. The paper has not always been my life, however, I have known and appreciated its value since my earliest days.
For three generations, the Dunnet family has been involved in their community through ownership and management of The Courier.
When I married Ian, I said “I do” to more than I knew. Our marriage has been a great fit in every way not least because of our association with the paper and the way in which we have worked together putting out the paper come what may. The Dunnet family leaves a true legacy through the pages of The Courier. Since May 20, 1920 their dedication and commitment to the community is obvious. I know of no family more skilled in writing, reporting on all aspects of community life, often experiencing problems no one outside the industry would appreciate. It was not an easy life.
The newspaper does not suddenly appear. It is a process involving real people at every level, and it is wholly local. You only have to look at the staff photo on page 2 to see that putting out papers is a real team effort. And it is an expensive business to run. Wages, production and printing costs are enormous. Many papers have closed but ours will keep on, thanks to the belief and commitment of Mark and Susie Slack-Smith.
The paper is a chronicle of history. There is a place for social media, however, try finding out what happened in Narrabri on July 7, 1956 or May 13, 1995 or even last week, on Facebook or Instagram or whatever is trending. The papers have the local news all in the one place and are kept for posterity. At some stage everyone will think about putting something in the paper, look for something in the paper, or cut something out of the paper. Someone, somewhere reads every word in every paper. It’s astounding and it’s true. We know, as someone will always tell us if we make a mistake!
We urge you to support the new owners by buying the paper. It’s such good value at $3, when you consider what goes into its production. We employ clerical, editorial, advertising, production and distribution staff. We also employ paperboys and papergirls, though it’s getting harder and harder to find kids who want to work. Having a paper run is a great introduction to the world of business and it pays well, it’s like having your own business when you’re 11! Many have started in year 6 as little kids and finished in year 12 as young adults and are special people in our lives. We’re always on the lookout so if you know somebody who’s interested in a paper run call 6792 1011 or come into The Courier office. It’s a great job for a pensioner as well!
Businesses, your investment in the paper thorough advertising is vital to its ongoing success. Advertising pays the bills! When you advertise you are not only investing in your paper, you are investing in the community. Advertising is a great way to let people know what you do, what you sell and where you are. Advertising in the paper gives your business authority, credibility and consistency.
And it’s good value. Our rates are cheap compared to other media options and they have not increased in 10 years.
It’s our belief that every town deserves its own paper. And it is your paper. When you think about The Courier, it’s part of Narrabri’s fabric, it’s hard to know when the town starts and the paper ends, so enmeshed have they been.
I am going to miss so much in retirement. Owning the paper has been gratifying and satisfying in so many ways. I love that everyone has a story, it’s the people who make our lives, who bring us pleasure, who appreciate the paper.That everyday connection that the paper gives us has been uplifting.
Thank you to our wonderful staff who over the years have been a tower of strength, many becoming good friends, to our advertisers who have supported the paper and to you, each and every one of you valued, loyal and kind readers, we are sincerely grateful.
It’s been a privilege and a pleasure to serve you.
But wait, there’s more! In the coming year, my sister-in-law Robyn Dampney (nee Dunnet – writing is in her genes) will be publishing a book titled “A Family, a Newspaper and a Country Town – a Shared Journey” Keep an eye out for it!
Wanda Dunnet OAM
Narrabri
