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Who and What is Spark?

Who and What is Spark?
Through 2025, Cat Holloway will produce a series of environment-focused stories supported by a LINA Environmental Reporting Grant. Contributions on any subject are very welcome.

Spark is Shoalhaven's independent, public-interest newsletter and website that aims to amplify community efforts and stimulate debate on local issues.

Sparking curiosity. Kindling conversation. Igniting change.

We welcome written or multimedia contributions from throughout the Shoalhaven on any topic - provided your take is accurate and clear. Don't hesitate to pitch Spark a story. This email newsletter, website and our associated Instagram and YouTube platforms are places to share your ideas and creativity.

Spark was launched in 2024 by Cat Holloway, a freelance journalist with a background in news reporting, magazine editing, photography and citizen science.

Spark produces and curates constructive and critical coverage of issues in our region through articles, podcasts, video and social media.

Spark publishes reader-driven content without affiliation or obligation to business or religious institutions. It provides independent, politically progressive perspectives as an important counterpoint to the established commercial media.

Knowledge is power. Everyone should have free access to reliable information about decisions, events and trends affecting our future. We want our audience to be 'in the know' without scrolling, trolling or paywalls creating barriers.

Subscribe for FREE to get full reading/commenting access to the Spark website and content emailed directly to you. Join our Spark community on Instagram.

Spark so far...

March 2024 - Launched as a platform for community news and commentary.
June 2024 - Shoalhaven Council and Local Government election coverage
Sept-Dec 2024 - Detailed, critical coverage of the new Mayor and Council
January 2025 - Summer break, Spark Change reels on Instagram ramp up
February 2025 - Awarded a LINA Environmental Reporting grant for 2025
March 2025 - Environment reporting kicks off alongside the Federal campaign
April 2025 - Gilmore election campaign reporting and commentary
May 2025 - Spark wants YOU! Seeking contributions from all Shoalhaven voices

How to get involved in Sparking Shoalhaven?

  1. Subscribe to the Spark email newsletter and rally your friends to sign up too. We are nothing without an audience. Join our Instagram community too!
  2. Send us your tips, ideas, interests. What topics would you like to see covered in Spark? Which local issues and happenings do you want to understand better?
  3. Submit your own story - words, pictures, video or podcast. We'd love to publish quality work from local journalists, photographers, creatives, knowledgeable commentators and community groups. That's the platform's purpose.

Spark up a conversation when you subscribe. Email me: spark@catholloway.com

Thank you!

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