Thursday, May 26, 2022

A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Local Paper/Melbourne Observer Editor
Ash Long writes to readers, advertisers

We are an old-fashioned newspaper company.
Our 53-year traditions, as one of the few remaining truly independent publishers of weekly community newspapers in Victoria, serve our readers well.
We prize the truth, we go the extra mile for accuracy, and we strive to work around all types of logistical obstacles to be dependable news providers.

We have a proud history of delivering local news, on time, every time.
However, against our will, the COVID pandemic has temporarily changed that for us.
Since March 2020, COVID lockdowns meant that we were unable to publish/distribute hard copies of our newspapers for 17 issues.

I am afraid to confirm that we must add two more issues to that tally.
This week, we started to print our newspapers as usual.
Of the 38 areas that we serve, we were able to complete print and distribution for areas including Bayside, Boroondara, Cardinia, Casey, Frankston, Greater Dandenong, Glen Eira, Kingston, Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula, Port Phillip, Stonnington and Yarra.
We were able to complete all issues by way of Digital Editions, which can be viewed at www.LocalPaper.com.au

A number of our key personnel tested positive to COVID-19, and each of us are in a minimum of seven-day lockdown.
We were unable, legally or physically, to complete the printing or distribution of the remaining issues for May 25.
With huge regret, and against our values, we must cancel the publication of all June 1 editions next week.
Of course, all advertisers will have their accounts adjusted. There will be no charges to any clients for May 25 or June 1 editions.

As our team members recover, we plan to be back to our regular weekly publishing schedule for our June 8 edition.
Then every week until Christmas, and resuming in early 2023.
We recognise that we have responsibilities to many in the community. We are eager to return to our jobs.

COVID has been tough for many businesses.
Missing issues is not good for your business. Or our business.
We thank our many friends – readers and advertisers alike – for their support during these unique times.

Sincerely,
Ash Long
editor@LocalPaper.com.au