Entries open for Queensland’s richest journalism prize

Published on 31 August 2026

Queensland’s richest reporting prize, the Bean Lockyer Ticehurst Award for Excellence in Regional Journalism has opened for entries with judges keen to celebrate the work of journalism across all platforms.

The Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) launched the annual $15,000 prize in honour of ABC cameraman John Bean, journalist Paul Lockyer and helicopter pilot Gary Ticehurst, who tragically died in a helicopter crash while on assignment in 2011.

The award aims to recognise and encourage the work of professional journalists across all media, including reporters, photographers, producers and camera operators, with the first prize to worth $10,000, second place $3000 and third place $2000.

LGAQ Chief Executive Officer Alison Smith said the ABC team of John Bean, Paul Lockyer and Gary Ticehurst were recognised and respected throughout regional communities for their dedication.

“The LGAQ’s annual award commemorates the work of John, Paul and Gary to encourage journalists to adopt the doggedness and professionalism for which they were widely known and respected,” Ms Smith said

“The way journalists can tell the stories that matter is always evolving but their dedication and professionalism continues to be a proud path for others to follow.

“They provided an example of the sort of journalism that ensures regional Queensland communities are given a voice, locally and in the offices of decision-makers in the city, no matter what the platform is used to deliver it.

“That’s why we are particularly keen to see as many entries as possible from the traditional print, television and radio arenas but highlight how journalists are using new techniques and platforms to tell the stories that matter to Queensland communities.”

The award is open to professional journalists in print, television/video, online and radio, with judging criteria including newsworthiness, incisiveness, public benefit and impact on the understanding of the issues and challenges facing regional Queensland.

The winner will be announced at the 130th LGAQ Annual Conference in Cairns in October.

For entry, terms and conditions, visit the award information page here.

Entries close Monday 28 September 2026.

For more information, please contact:

Dan Knowles, Media Advisor
Phone: 0432 681 664
Local Government Association of Queensland