General News
30 January, 2025
After 65 years... Newspaper returns to family ownership
THREE long-standing regional Victorian newspapers are set to change owners at the end of February. The proposed sale of Horsham-based The Wimmera Mail-Times, The Ararat Advertiser and The Stawell Times-News was announced this week.
The mastheads are currently owned by Australia’s largest independent media company, ACM.
Wimmera Mallee News, which publishes titles including The Horsham Times and Warracknabeal Herald, is buying The Wimmera Mail-Times and West Vic News, publisher of The Ararat Advocate and The Pyrenees Advocate, will be the new owner of The Ararat Advertiser and The Stawell Times-News.
ACM managing director Tony Kendall said the company had engaged with the consortium of publishers after they expressed interest in purchasing the three mastheads.
“This decision to sell was not made lightly. These publications have been with us for many years and we are proud of them, the people who staff them and the excellent work they do for the communities and customers they serve, “ Mr Kendall said.
“We felt strongly that the Wimmera Mallee News and West Vic News would be best placed to support these mastheads going forward, for the sake of the mastheads themselves and their employees, customers and communities.”
Mr Kendall said editorial and advertising staff working on the titles had been briefed on the proposed sale, would be offered roles with the new owners and all entitlements will be preserved.
Andrew Ward, from Wimmera Mallee News, said the purchase of The Wimmera Mail-Times reflected a commitment to securing the future of local journalism in the region.
“This acquisition is a significant step for us. The Wimmera Mail-Times has long been an important part of our community since 1959 and we are determined to build on its legacy by continuing to deliver relevant, engaging, and timely news to readers,” he said.
Mr Ward emphasised the importance of supporting both readers and advertisers.
“Our focus is on producing high-quality content that resonates with the community while also ensuring strong outcomes for local businesses through effective advertising opportunities.
“Local journalism plays a vital role in connecting and empowering communities, and we’re committed to its sustainability for years to come.”
Publisher Craig Wilson said the acquisition was a significant one for West Vic News.
“Local newspapers have a great history in western Victoria. They are the heart and soul of local communities and still have a great future,” Mr Wilson said.
“This purchase will give us a chance to consolidate resources while continuing to provide good, interesting content for readers and good results for advertisers.
“Like ACM, we are passionate about newspapers and are committed to delivering the news across the region for a long time to come.”
The Ararat Advertiser was established in 1857 and The Stawell Times-News 11 years later in 1868. The Wimmera Mail-Times was first published in 1959 after a merger between The Horsham Times and the West Wimmera Mail, which were established in 1874 and 1887 respectively.
ACM will continue to publish the three mastheads until February 28 when the sale is due to be finalised.