The Prom Coast News (PCN) working group and Manna Gum Community House (MGCH) are pleased to announce the signing of an auspice agreement, paving the way for the establishment of a community-owned local newspaper for the Coastal Promontory ward. The agreement will establish a community-based governing body to provide administrative and financial management support to the working group for the initial 12 months.
“The auspice agreement with Manna Gum Community House provides us with the credibility, insurance, and most importantly a bank account,” says Mohya Davies, one of the working group founders. “Now we have a solid foundation, we can commence applying for grant funding and complete our comprehensive business plan.” Preparing a timeline for the first edition is now also a reality thanks to the new agreement.
“ We are hoping the first issue will be published in September to showcase our region over the school holidays and the local football and netball finals. If all goes to plan, a second issue is scheduled before the local council elections in October. “It’s an ambitious timeline and very much contingent upon our successful fundraising through grants, donations, and advertising revenue,” adds Davies.
“We were very excited to see a strong working group form so quickly after the Mirror announced its closure. Having a local newspaper strengthens the community and is such an important factor in community resilience. We are committed to supporting the Prom Coast News working group to achieve their vision,” says Rebecca Matthews, manager of Manna Gum Community House. Next steps for the working group also include planning for the upcoming community engagement session at Manna Gum Community House on Saturday 24 August .
Communities are encouraged to attend the drop in session to share their ideas for the future newspaper. First drop in community session Follow the PCN on Facebook Saturday 24 August 10am – 12 noon Manna Gum Community House 33 Station Rd Foster Image of the Prom Coast News working group and Manna Gum Community House representatives with the signed auspice agreement.
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