A final reminder that the deadline for entering Democracy’s Watchdogs’ award for investigative reporting is tomorrow, Friday, November 17, at midnight. Extensions don’t exist in this award.

I encourage students who are in two minds about entering to do so. You may think your story isn’t good enough, but it’s not what you think that matters; it’s what the judges think. The judges are veteran reporters and editors with decades of journalism behind them and they know a great story when they see one.

It only takes a few minutes to lodge your entry. It’s good practice anyway. There’s a long-held culture in newsrooms for reporters each year to enter their best stories, whether or not they truly believe they can win a prize.

Speaking of prizes, Democracy’s Watchdogs’ winners will receive $1000 and a trophy that the judges will personally give them. (See it as a networking opportunity). Finalists will get a specially designed highly commended certificate.

So click on the link, get your story in and let the judges decide. Best of luck.

Cheers,

Bill