University of Southern Queensland (USQ) journalism alumni Davina Smith is living her dream of covering some of the nation’s biggest news stories.
Ms Smith studied a Bachelor of Mass Communications majoring in Journalism at USQ before beginning her successful career at WIN News where she worked as a reporter and presenter in Rockhampton, Toowoomba and the Sunshine Coast.
The award winning journalist is currently based in Brisbane for Nine News, but she’ll soon head to Sydney to take over as the news network’s daytime presenter. “I still can’t believe I have this job – it’s what I dreamed of when I was at USQ,†she said. “I’ve reported in London, New Zealand, Singapore, Malaysia, the Solomon Islands, Canberra, Sydney and Brisbane.
I’ve covered everything from natural disasters, to politics, fashion shows, President Barack Obama’s Australian Tour, and met Prince William and Kate while covering their royal tour through the Asia Pacific. “Every day is intense, but rewarding.â€
Ms Smith said she wouldn’t be where she is today without USQ. “My first lecture was with Dianne Jones, who told a group of fresh faced high school graduates if they planned on being the next Jana Wendt, they had enrolled in the wrong degree – this was about telling stories, not being TV stars,†she said. “Every student got hands on experience, opportunities and individual attention.
“Through the University’s contacts, I lined up work experience and eventually jobs that gave me the best start to my career.†Ms Smith said she tells every university journalism student she meets to start their career in a regional newsroom because it’s where you learn to be a great reporter.
“Regional newsrooms are a local community’s voice and they know what is going on their backyard,†she said. “When I’m back home visiting family in Toowoomba, I always buy the local paper, and I always take time to listen and watch the local news – Toowoomba is still my home and I want to know what’s going on in the community.â€
Submitted by:
Rhianwen Whitney
USQ Toowoomba
