Meet the new editor of the Sorell Times, Tasman Gazette and East Coast View

In November 2021, during a job interview that would ultimately lead to my first journalism position, I was asked about my long-term career goals.

Not knowing what to say, I panicked and replied with “I’d like to be a newspaper editor one day”.

Almost exactly four years later, I have achieved that goal and am now responsible for overseeing three newspapers as the new editor of the Sorell Times, Tasman Gazette and East Coast View.

There is one extra level of synchronicity, though.

My partner and I are moving to Sorell in December.

Landing a property at Sorell was not an intentional choice.

Like many prospective first home buyers, we were looking all around the Greater Hobart area in the hope of finding a home where we could raise our future children. 

But my links to the region date back to 2019 when I started playing soccer at South East United Football Club.

When I joined the team, it had just been accepted into the Southern Championship after years of fielding sides in the social leagues.

As an incredibly average goalkeeper, I regularly conceded goals that season as our seniors’ team finished bottom of the ladder after losing every single game.

But by the time I left the club in 2021, South East United had turned into a mid-table team that was competitive against any side in the league.

I would have stayed for longer had I not got my first journalism job – the one where I said I wanted to be a newspaper editor in the interview.

It has been beautiful to see South East United thrive on and off the field over the last three years.

The club now boasts exceptional facilities following the construction of the South East Sports Complex, which also benefits the wider Sorell community.

Seeing the team go undefeated in the Southern Championship this year, finish runner-up in the Lakoseljac Cup and be accepted into Tasmania’s National Premier League for 2026 has been inspiring.

It’s stories like this that make me proud to be taking charge of Font Publishing’s three monthly eastern newspapers.

Now that I can call myself a local in a month, we punch above our weight despite being overlooked in favour of bigger population centres.

I want to highlight the achievements of the fantastic people and organisations in the beautiful, scenic communities that we call home.

In preparation for my new role, I have been speaking to key figures in our communities and the pride they have for these regions is incredible to see.

Telling the stories of the Tasman, East Coast and Sorell is something I know will give me pride.

My predecessor, Martine Haley, deserves so much credit for all the work she has done over the past six years.

She has turned our three eastern newspapers into a vital part of the regions they inform.

Our readers, many of whom have featured in these pages, have a high level of trust and pride in the publications – something that I will do my utmost to maintain.

I’m sure all of us will agree that Martine has earned the opportunity to retire and relax.

If you have a story idea or want to have a chat with me, don’t be afraid to reach out on 0436 024 318 or simon.mcguire@fontpublishing.com.au