By Azulie Von Dayme
I AM 14 years old, doing a work experience program at Glasshouse Country and Maleny News. I am sitting at a desk, mind swirling with words, writing this to the soft symphony of suburbia and the gentle murmur of office voices. How did I get here?
Since I first learnt my letters, I have loved reading. I devour books, newspapers, even song lyrics until I fall asleep with words, magic, and music spilling through the streets of my mind.
Five weeks ago, my school asked me a terrifying question. ‘What do you want to do for work?’ Instantly, my mind blanked of all thoughts and ambition. What do I want to do… What will be my path in life? What is the meaning of life?
I quickly went down a philosophical spiral, a swirling maelstrom dragging me from one thought to the other. Seeing my confusion, my mum threw me a lifeline. ‘What about writing?’
Writing. That’s it! So, a purpose holding me steady, I surfed the perilous waves of the web. Authors? Not a shadowing role. Hinterland Times? They all work from home.
After much thought, I found myself at GC&M News, and for that I am grateful. I’ve been afforded a glimpse into the whirring gears and the hard-at-work mechanics of the newspaper world. Journalists, editors, admin staff – all working together seamlessly to find and write stories for the community.
Working here has been an enlightening experience, and I have certainly gained an immense respect for those who take spools of abstract ideas and community emails, and weave them into an intricate embroidery of information and engaging stories.
Newspapers are masterpieces, and never will I forget that.
