Geelong’s favourite newspaper has a new look and more to read.
And it also has a new name with the introduction of the Geelong Indy masthead.
The changes are part of a new direction for the paper, with refreshed design and more space for community involvement.
Managing editor Tony Galpin said that this week marked the paper’s biggest shakeup since it was launched in 1986.
The change from Independent to Indy reflected community sentiment, he said.
“Everyone affectionately called us the Indy anyway, so it made sense to make the change,” Mr Galpin explained.
“The name Indy complements our place in the community as a warmly regarded local paper with a strong, close relationship to our readers.
“It’s also a contemporary rebranding, acknowledging the thirst for immediacy in local news, whether in presentation or dissemination. Indy still means Independent, it’s just easier, more casual.”
Mr Galpin said other changes included more opportunities for community input.
Readers could submit pictures to new Favourite Photos and Hot Shots sections, while additional editorial space allowed room for more stories on local people and issues.
Mr Galpin said the Indy’s digital focus would also increase.
“I encourage readers to like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for alerts to breaking news on our website, geelongindy.com.au.
“And don’t forget the free subscription to our epaper for a link to be delivered to your email inbox every Friday.”
Mr Galpin said some aspects of the Indy would remain the same despite all the changes.
“We’re still Geelong’s family-owned, truly independent newspaper. We’ll always give all sides their say and keep doing the best we can for our readers and community.”
Mayor Darryn Lyons was impressed when he inspected the changes at the Indy’s Moorabool Street office this week.
The makeover mirrored Geelong’s transition to a “21st Century smart city”, Cr Lyons said.
Community papers like Indy would continue to play an “incredibly important role”, he said.
“Such papers offer us a stable, reliable and reputable medium to responsibly report on and record the daily local events that shape our lives. The Geelong Indy will continue this great tradition – especially as it wisely adapts its content, layout and approach to deliver news and information that its current and future readers truly want.
“This is a great innovation and I congratulate all at the Geelong Indy for having the foresight and courage to move in this great new direction.”
