By Tahlia Facer
Over the past 12 months Bundaberg Today has enjoyed watching our online engagement with the community grow to new heights.
While our weekly printed newspaper is our main commitment, we are mindful that most people are online as well.
We love hearing positive feedback about our work and social media is a fantastic way to see what stories are connecting with Bundaberg residents.
This year we’ve seen a few spikes in engagement, with some very popular faces gaining the most attention.
Most recently, Gary Ostrofski the TriCare waver blew up our socials with hundreds of people recognising the friendly face.
On 9 and 10 December Gary’s photo and story were collectively liked almost 500 times and totalled some 60 comments with his story repeatedly shared by our readers.
Another highly recognised face, former teaching principal Jeff Searle was congratulated on his service of 28 years at Kolan South State School.
Our story received almost 400 reactions and 60 comments, and was shared by people near and far.
Other notable online content that connected with the community included the sod turning at the Royal Flying Doctor world-class aviation training facility, Lighthouse Rock, Bundaberg Brewed Drinks winning big at the Export Awards, and SSS Strawberries taking out gold at the 2022 International Business Awards.
Hard news stories that our online readers responded to included the demolition and redevelopment of Anzac Pool, the $80m Bundaberg Aquatic Facility, development content at Bargara, and the homelessness crisis gripping the region.
On the sports front, who could overlook the NRL Bulldogs’ visit as they took on the Cowboys in August.
From fundraising efforts to business awards, we thank our readers for engaging with our stories in all forms.
Have a Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year, and we look forward to bringing our community more of what it loves in 2023.
