Judges’ Report

Amy McQuire eviscerates the approach of mainstream journalism in Australia in Black Witness: The Power of Indigenous Media. Writing from her experience as a Darumbal and South Sea Islander journalist, McQuire argues that too often journalists and media outlets privilege the ‘White Witness’, marginalising anyone who does not conform to that preferred stereotype, especially First Nations peoples. Black Witness takes the reader back to pivotal moments in recent Australian history, including the Palm Island uprising and the Bowraville murders, and demonstrates the bias and injustice implicit in much contemporary media coverage. The collection also honours the sheer courage and deep resilience of Black Witnesses. McQuire notes that ‘a voice in the media is undeniably powerful’. With rigorous research, she ensures that Black Witness is also a deeply powerful collection. McQuire’s debut non-fiction is a must-read for all engaged citizens, especially journalists who want to represent the fullness of contemporary Australia.