Strong future for ‘papers like Indy’

Editorial
VICTORIAN regional newspaper like the Independent are “alive and very much kicking”, according to their industry association.
Victorian Country Press Association said the papers’ relevance to communities meant they were avoiding “gloomy predictions” for metropolitan cousins.
The association was commenting following Fairfax and News Limited announcing major restructuring of their companies.
Victorian Country Press Association president Paul Thomas, whose family company publishes the Independent, said newspapers had a “long and strong future in community and regional areas”.
“Country newspapers are most often the only source of local news. They help bind communities and continue to be their voice,” Mr Thomas said.
“In Victoria, country newspapers enjoy diverse ownership with passionate proprietors believing in the industry and its future. Despite recent economic difficulties, our membership and its newspaper circulations remain high.”
Mr Thomas used the recent investment of “the world’s most successful investor” in American country newspapers as an indication of the industry’s strength.
Warren Buffett spent $142 million on 63 papers but turned down offers to invest in “big city” titles.
“That’s where he sees the long-term survival of print newspapers,” Mr Thomas said.
“Contrary to the widespread assumption of the impending death of print newspapers, country newspapers reflect the strong sense of community spirit and pride country people have for their regions.”