The Bugle is celebrating after being recognised at the 2025 Country Press NSW Awards of Excellence for our coverage at the Combined Country Press NSW and Victorian Country Press Association (VCPA) awards night.

Showcasing exactly how regional journalism can make a lasting impact, The Bugle enjoyed a successful night at the awards ceremony held at the Sebel Resort, Yarrawonga, as part of a joint conference with the Victorian Country Press Association.

The newspaper earned recognition in three major categories, including the coveted Best Editorial Campaign.

Bugle reporter Lleyton Hughes on the MV Signa with John and Sandra Hansen.

The winning MV Signa series by reporter Lleyton Hughes celebrated the delightfully restored wooden boat, connecting the community through storytelling across print, video and social media.

With the help of The Bugle, the boat travelled from Kiama to Hobart with six local crew members manning the ship for the trip to the International Timber Boat Festival.

Judge Andrew Manuel praised the series, saying it “inspired pride and excitement among readers and demonstrates how a local newspaper can strengthen its brand while celebrating stories that truly matter.”

In the NSW Best Sports Story category, Hughes received a Commended award for “Like father, like son”, which followed Gerringong Lions junior Tyran Wishart’s journey to the NRL grand final, following in the footsteps of his famous father Rod’s legacy.

Manuel noted, “The piece captures Tyran Wishart’s personal and professional journey, linking it to his father’s legacy. With strong quotes and detail, it balances local pride with national significance.”

Hughes was also Highly Commended in the NSW Young Journalist of the Year category, with judges highlighting his versatility and engaging storytelling.

These accolades underline The Bugle’s ongoing commitment to quality journalism that resonates with the community - from celebrating local heritage and culture with MV Signa to capturing the human spirit through sport.

Regional newspapers, the awards demonstrate, remain essential to local life.

Award-winning investigative journalist Nick McKenzie, who spoke at the conference, knows firsthand the power of regional journalism.

In a compelling address, McKenzie reflected on his early days reporting in Wagga Wagga, where local stories and personalities shaped his reporting skills, and shared how those foundations led to high-stakes investigations into organised crime, political corruption and war crimes.

“Regional journalism is not just a stepping stone,” McKenzie said.

“It teaches you to know people, understand local dynamics, and earn trust - skills that are essential for investigative work anywhere in the world.”

The CPA NSW contingent.

His message resonated strongly with the audience: small-town newspapers do more than inform communities - they safeguard democracy and build the groundwork for reporting that can reach national and international audiences.

The conference also marked a period of transition for Country Press NSW.

Lucie Peart retired after eight years as president - the longest tenure in the association’s history.

Edward Higgins of The Cowra Guardian was elected NSW President, with Mark Griggs of the Wellington & District Leader taking on the role of Vice-President.