The John Curtin Prize for Journalism: Winner and Shortlist 2008

The judges were a little disappointed in the number and, in some instances, the quality of the entries for the prize. But there were some outstanding entries.

Judges: Michael Gawenda (Convenor), Greg Hywood and Richard Watts

Winner

The winner of the 2008 John Curtin Prize for Journalism is:

• 'Out of Control: The Tragedy of Tasmania’s Forests'
  by Richard Flanagan (The Monthly)

Shortlist

	The Search for Edna Lavilla Eurydice Aroney and Sharon Davis (Radio Eye, ABC Radio National) This is an excellent example of what a radio documentary can do so well. It is full of memorable voices and startling twists and turns as it explores the life and mystery of the death of Edna Lavilla Haynes, who died after a backyard abortion in 1942. The mixture of readings of research documents and the memories of her daughter and grand-daughter and others who were part of Edna’s story is affecting and engaging. It is a well-edited and gripping radio documentary.
	Shame Job: Circle of Abuse Nick Farrow and Sarah Ferguson (Sunday Program, Nine Network Australia) This is outstanding journalism on a sensitive and controversial subject - the Howard Government’s Northern Territory intervention. The reporting from several communities which will be impacted by the intervention is compelling and unflinching. This is journalism that does not simplify a complex issue, but rather illuminates just how just how complex and difficult the intervention is likely to be. The interviews with local people are the highlights of this report, done with great sensitivity and skill.
	Out of Control: The Tragedy of Tasmania’s Forests - WINNER Richard Flanagan (The Monthly) This is a wonderful piece of advocacy journalism with no pretence at `balance’. It is very clear where Richard Flanagan stands on the issue of logging Tasmania’s forests. But it is a fact-rich piece, very well written and argued, full of great anecdotes and telling details. Flanagan writes with a controlled passion - even rage - but the reader does not feel in any way bullied by the writing. It is a great example of excellent magazine journalism.