BY JOY OFASIA
A group of eight media professionals from the Solomon Islands recently completed a week-long visit to Australia as part of the International Media Visit Program, held from March 23 to 30, 2025.
The trip aimed to deepen their understanding of Australia, its media ecosystem, and strengthen bilateral ties through shared journalistic experiences.
The delegation included reporters, editors, and media entrepreneurs representing a wide range of Solomon Islands media outlets. Among them were Assumpta Buchanan (Solomon Star and Island Sun), Ned Gagahe (Island Sun), Charley Piringi (In-depth Solomons), Allan Raymond Tarohania (Deputy Press Secretary, OPMC), Joy Ofasia (Sunday Isles), Lanieta Nimelea (PAOA FM), Jeremy Gwao (Tavuli News), and Benjamin Malao Afuga (Media Island & YUMI TOKTOK FORUM).
Throughout their visit to Canberra and Brisbane, the journalists were immersed in Australia’s vibrant media environment through tailored briefings, newsroom tours, and engagements with senior officials at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). A key highlight of the trip included a visit to the Australian Parliament House and media institutions where participants gained insight into how Australia supports freedom of the press and sustains independent journalism.
The initiative, supported by the Australian Government, reflects a growing commitment to strengthening the Solomon Islands–Australia Media Sector Partnership.
“We were pleased to host our colleagues from the Solomon Islands and offer a program that not only informs but builds lasting professional connections,” said a DFAT representative who accompanied the group.
For Island Sun journalist Ned Gagahe, the experience was transformative. Speaking to the SUNDAY ISLES, Ned reflected on the significance of direct engagement with Australian media professionals.
“My biggest takeaway from this trip was the opportunity to engage directly with media professionals and learn firsthand how they are navigating the digital transformation driven by rapid technological change,” he said.
“Hearing their experiences—both successes and struggles—provided deep insights into the evolving global media landscape. Their strategies for long-term sustainability—balancing declining print revenue with digital growth—were especially enlightening.”
Ned stressed the relevance of these lessons for the Solomon Islands, where local media face similar pressures but on a smaller scale.
“This experience has given me valuable ideas to explore, such as alternative revenue models, strengthening digital storytelling, and advocating for media literacy. Moving forward, I aim to apply these insights to improve my own work and contribute to a more sustainable future for journalism in our country.”
The visit featured the role of international collaboration in building resilient and forward-thinking media sectors. It also served as a platform for cultural exchange, networking, and fostering dialogue between journalists from both nations.
As the Solomon Islands continues to navigate its own media challenges, such initiatives help build bridges, exchange innovation, and equip journalists with the tools they need to inform, inspire, and empower their communities.
