A recent piece published by South Burnett Online titled “A New Direction For SBO” sparked important reflections about the future of local media and the role it plays in our community.
Looking Back: A Legacy of Community Spirit
The South Burnett region has always thrived on the strength of its community. From the pioneering days of South Burnett Online (SBO)—born in 1999 as a government-backed initiative to bridge the digital divide—to its 2025 transformation into a not-for-profit, community-owned news platform, our region’s story is one of resilience, adaptation, and shared purpose.
SBO’s journey mirrors the broader South Burnett ethos: when faced with change or challenge, we come together. Whether it was local councils, passionate individuals like founder Dafyd Martindale, or business leaders, each chapter in SBO’s history has been written by people willing to contribute their time, skills, and resources for the greater good.
As current editor Anne Miller noted, “SBO was truly Dafyd’s baby… We had discussed handing it back to the community from whence it came.” That moment has now arrived—and it’s up to all of us to take it forward.
Present Goals: Building on Strong Foundations
Today, South Burnett stands at a crossroads. Our challenges—economic, social, and environmental—are real, but so are our opportunities. The recent pivot of SBO to a membership-driven, not-for-profit model is more than a business decision; it’s a call to action for every resident, student, business, and community group.
- Sustain and grow local journalism as civic infrastructure, ensuring everyone has access to reliable, relevant news.
- Foster regional economic development by supporting local businesses, promoting events, and attracting investment.
- Protect our heritage and environment through informed advocacy and community projects.
The Power of Participation: How We All Make a Difference
The future of South Burnett will not be shaped by a single organisation or leader—it will be built by all of us. Here’s how everyone can play a part:
1. Volunteering and Membership
Join local organisations—whether it’s SBO, a heritage society, or a sports club. Your time and skills are invaluable. Membership isn’t just about voting rights; it’s about belonging and having a voice in our region’s direction.
2. Community Journalism
Are you a student, retiree, or anyone with a story to tell? Submit articles, photos, or tips to platforms like SBO. Community journalism ensures our news reflects our lives, not just headlines from afar.
3. Business and Philanthropic Support
Local businesses can sponsor events, donate to community projects, or provide in-kind support. Philanthropy—whether from individuals or organisations—helps fund initiatives that might otherwise struggle.
4. Active Citizenship
Attend council meetings, join public consultations, and support regional development plans. Informed, engaged citizens are the backbone of any thriving community.
Looking Forward: A Shared Vision
Imagine a South Burnett where:
- Our local news is robust, independent, and truly reflective of our community.
- Our economy is buoyed by local enterprise, tourism, and innovative environmental projects.
- Our heritage is celebrated and preserved for future generations.
- Every resident feels empowered to contribute—because they know their efforts matter.
This vision is within reach. But it requires all of us—students, business owners, retirees, newcomers, and lifelong locals—to step up.
We commend South Burnett Online for their transparency and continued commitment to independent journalism. Their recent editorial direction, outlined in A New Direction For SBO, reflects a spirit of renewal many in the region can rally behind.
A Call to Action
Let’s not wait for someone else to secure the future of South Burnett. Let’s do it together. Volunteer. Join. Contribute. Share your stories. Support local initiatives. Your involvement is the key to a stronger, more vibrant South Burnett.
Together, we can ensure our region remains not just a place to live, but a community to be proud of—today and for generations to come.
Ready to get involved? Reach out to your local community group, submit an article to SBO, or attend the next Chamber of Commerce event. The future starts with you.
About the Author
With a passion for storytelling and a deep commitment to community, Michael Vaughan is an experienced journalist, public historian, and advocate based in South Burnett, Queensland.
Read more about Michael
Drawing on more than 20 years of experience documenting Australia’s changing social landscape, Michael offers a distinctive perspective that blends historical depth with contemporary relevance.
Rooted in a family history dating back to 1910, he brings an intimate understanding of the region to his work.His expertise in advocacy journalism, civic reporting, and social history allows him to craft compelling narratives that inform, engage, and inspire diverse audiences.
His articles have been featured in notable publications such as Horizon and Cultural Reflections, where he explores themes of community resilience and social justice.
Michael’s debut novel, Echoes of the Past, is set to be released in 2025, further showcasing his dedication to weaving rich narratives that resonate with readers