I write in order to recognise the work of Sam Woods as editor of the Gunnedah Times.
I note from his letter entitled ‘Thanks for the Memories’ in last week’s Times that Sam is about to leave his present role. I therefore feel it timely that he be acknowledged for his outstanding role as editor for the last few years.
I also remember the “inspirational stories of love and hope, courage and kindness-stories which bring pure joy and happiness to all involved” – as well as those news stories about local events, council decisions, community and cultural events and sporting news.
However, I realise that these news stories were provided for us by a Times news team led by an editor who wanted to proudly depict our community and its activities and achievements, together with the challenges that we face in Gunnedah, as fairly and objectively as possible.
This was the work of Sam Woods, and in the tradition of previous editors such as Ron McLean, he should be recognised and thanked for his contribution to providing us with a country newspaper second to none-as shown by the article ‘Highly commended’ recognition for Gunnedah Times award nominations” in last week’s edition of the Times where we see that the Times received a number of awards – as many would have anticipated.
Therefore, I say to Sam, thank you for the work that you have done and the standards that you have set for the Times team, and I hope that your new role will be both as challenging and rewarding as your role as editor has been.
May I express my best wishes to you and your family for your next career move – at least you will remain in Gunnedah.
Owen Hasler, Gunnedah
