The Phillip Island and San Remo Advertiser won the award for Overall Newspaper Excellence at last week's Victorian Country Press Awards.
The Advertiser also won Best Special Publication for The Island Magazine.

These are the judges comments in full.

Overall Newspaper Excellence Over 2,500 – Judge Margaret Easterbrook 
 

Overall Comments 
The standard of entries was high and choosing a winner was difficult. Our regions are well served by good journalism often produced with very limited resources. 
Ultimately, The Phillip Island and San Remo Advertiser’s entry was the standout. 

Winner 
Phillip Island & San Remo Advertiser 

Comments
This is a strong, newsy and attractive paper serving the Island and surrounding region. It provides detailed coverage of significant local events including the January surf drownings, the channel challenge and Australia Day. 

The paper knows how to engage its readers, not just through its news coverage but through its photography of local events and individuals. The paper’s appeal is confirmed by the strong presence of classified and display advertisements. Well worth its $1.80 cover price.

Best Magazine/Special Publication – Judge Josh Stephens
 

Overall Comments 
Hard not to dish out more awards in this category with so many excellent entries. The standouts delivered on all fronts - a compelling theme, crafted and inviting design, unique and easy to read format, original and captivating editorial, along with lots and lots of ads - all relevant to the theme with considered art direction and copywriting. The winners stood out from the crowd with the most distinctive and considered overall design, thoughtful editorial, valuable advertising that added to the overall experience for the reader, and the highest quality execution. Well done to all. 

Winner 
Phillip Island & San Remo Advertiser 
The Island - Summer 2023/24

Comments
'The Island' has it all. Clean modern design. Lots of air and space throughout inviting readers to relax and enjoy the insightful editorial. Big, beautiful, full-bleed photography. Considered and crafted typography (the art of kerning is not lost after all), relevant & effective advertising, and lovely stock in a format that feels as good as it looks. Combined, these elements create a magazine that not only exudes quality but adds style and depth to Phillip Island itself. 

Winner 
Phillip Island & San Remo Advertiser 
The Island - Autumn 2024 

Comments 
Captivating cover. Modern, well-crafted design and typography. Quality editorial. Beautiful photography. Well balanced advertising. Overall, a pleasure to flick through and a very well put together publication. Happy to leave this one out on the coffee table.