Community Journalism Day 2017 saw journalists, advertising representatives, editors and more get away from their desks and out into their communities. 

Staff from the paper and members of the public had a chance to meet each other face-to-face and form stronger community bonds. 

The people of Ballarat took the opportunity to ask questions about how the paper worked, where stories came from and share their memories of The Courier being a part of their life. 

One Ballarat resident shared the tale of how her father, a fitter and turner by trade, became Mr Fix-it for the paper’s printing presses during the war, when the German made parts for the presses were unavailable.  

Members of the public also contributed to online discussions via Facebook live videos and provided staff at The Courier with thought-provoking questions and comments. 

Volunteer at the Ballarat Library Yvon Davis said she greatly enjoyed meeting the people who work behind the scenes at the paper. 

“It’s been good, I have got to meet some people I have had contact with in the past before,” she said. 

“I’ve spoken to people at the paper online or by phone but it’s great meet you all face-to-face.”

Ms Davis also spoke highly of The Courier’s new online presence and some of the updates made to the website. 

“I saw the changes to the website and I’m very interested that as a community we can post photos and short stories,” she said. 

“For me the local content in the paper is the most important thing.” 

Many people also took up the opportunity to pick up a free copy of the paper as well as enjoying a bite to eat or a coffee with members of The Courier’s staff. 

Ms Davis said she is hoping to see staff from the paper in more community spaces in the future. 

“You should do it more often at events and things like that; it would be amazing,” she said. 

The day was also broadcast across various social media channels with the hashtag #CJDVIC2014. 

Thanks to our dedicated and engaged readers for making the day a great success.