Winner: Danny Tran, ABC News, “Olympic coach investigation”

Judges’ citation:

“Tran was a unanimous choice among judges for his exceptional ‘Olympic coach investigation’.

Tran showcased the finest elements of journalism for these pieces; a determination to pull a thread and see what would be uncovered, a doggedness to hold not just people but organisations to account and a thoroughness to keep attacking the story from beginning to end despite myriad roadblocks..

His exhaustive investigation brought about tangible change and was especially relevant considering the governance failures that have been exposed in gymnastics in Australia and abroad in recent years.

The impact of Tran’s work was significant and far-reaching; not just for the people and organisations involved, but the sport’s governance and safeguarding, its athletes and the parents who trust those charged with guiding their young athletes in a safe, secure and respectful manner.

Tran’s investigative skill, the relevance of the articles and quality of writing were of the highest quality.”

Highly Commended:

Tom Morris, 9News, “Christian Petracca stories”

Michael Warner, Herald Sun, “White Line Fever - AFL illicit drugs crisis”

Shortlisted:

Gerard Whateley, SEN and Fox Footy, “The Petracca Nightmare”