Who, What, Why & How

Spark is Shoalhaven's independent, public-interest newsletter and website.

Sparking curiosity. Kindling conversation. Igniting change.

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

Through 2025, Spark will produce a series of environment-focused stories supported by a LINA Environmental Reporting Grant.

Freelance writers, photographers, podcasters or video producers creating work on other Shoalhaven subjects are VERY welcome to submit to Spark. Get in touch spark@catholloway.com Please!

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

Spark publishes reader-driven content without affiliation to political, business or religious institutions. It provides a progressive perspective as an important counterpoint to the established conservative, commercial local media services.

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

Spark is a proud member of Australia's Local & Independent News Association.