Winner: Peter Washington, 9News Melbourne, “Sam Murphy Phone Find”

Judges’ citation:

“Shot of the year is awarded to Peter Washington who stood out in the icy cold Ballarat wind all day as he had an inkling that due to the way the police were reacting that this search had a different feeling about it. He found a great elevated vantage point and was able to use his years of experience to protect his camera from the elements. He was the only news crew which captured the image of police finding Samantha Murphy’s phone.

The significance of this shot is that it brings hope to both Sam’s family and the Ballarat community where Peter resides. The shot continually gets used whenever any story regarding Samantha Murphy appears and will do so for many years to come. Congratulations Peter.”

Highly Commended:

Jason Conduit and Ross Barker, 9News, “Derrimut Fire Aerials”

Shortlisted:

N/A