Why?

Not The Cairns Post was created by several Cairns citizens who bemoaned the lack of truly independent press in our fair city. Frustrated with the quality of our local tabloid, we have set about to join the ranks of internet bloggers who are trying to make a stand for free speech and independent thought.

This is a (semi**) open blog dedicated to allowing the people of Cairns and surrounds to have an independent news source, and to publish articles which hold our local media to account.

Oh – and no, we are not specifically against the Cairns Post. As a local newspaper, we appreciate its role in our community and Cairns is better for it being there. We do however, think that it can do a better job. The Cairns Post (as the major local media source) is a symbol for local media in our little slice of Far North Queensland.

What?

We have all seen a few blogs around. There are even a couple popular blogs for cairns, such as Michael Moore’s “Cairns Blog” (an excellent read!). However, most blogs rely on a single contributor – this blog is a little different. The aim is to allow anyone to contribute if they have something so say and can say it with respect for other people. Yes, that means you have to articulate your thoughts in a rational way using a little skill with the English language.

For the record, there are several moderators – all with the authority to publish articles. This is not just one person’s point of view, rather a collective decision making process that represents more of a consensus view.

The Rules (so far)?

The aim is to have a fairly liberal discussion, with minimal moderating. We understand the idea that robust discussion means to include those of all point of view.

1. No excessive or gratuitous vulgarity
2. Your post should be newsworthy to the broader community, or comment on current events/news
3. You do not have to provide your real name, however it should be noted that publishing or commenting under your real name will add legitimacy to your comments.
4. Personal details (emails etc.) will NOT be released or made public under any circumstance short of a court order.
5. We do not condone, or allow SPAM of any kind. That includes posts that are obviously advertising or have gratuitous out-bound links.

What to write?

We are interested in news – particularly if you have an “inside story” or know something that should be of interest to the rest of Cairns. How many times has a story hit the media only to have those involved say something like “that’s not how it happened!” – this is your opportunity to set the record straight.

If you have “new news” – stuff that may not make the mainstream press for a lack of its ability to sell newspapers or advertising, then this is for you.

“Keep the bastards honest” was the catch-cry of the Don Chipp, and while this particular blog is not politically aligned it suits just the same.

DO hold The Cairns Post and other media sources to account for:

• Using press releases with little or no research or checking
• Sexisim, Racisim
• Lazy Journalisim (i.e. copy and pasting an article, email or web post without research)
• Poor grammar, spelling and general lack of sub-editing
• Repeating the same story on different pages (or days)
• Stories based on a false, marginal or misleading premise (beat ups!)
• Sensationalism for the sake of selling papers

DON’T fall into the same trap as those that we wish to hold to account

• Please keep your posts factual – if you can, back up your facts / story
• Don’t “bash” The Cairns Post or other media without some reason. Remember – we are holding people to account here, not holding them down while you stick the boot in.

Notes:

** “Semi” open refers to the fact that the administrators of this blog will approve all posts and comments in a timely fashion, but will reject posts without notice if they are in breach of the basic guidelines (above).