Changes at top for your Addy
ONE of Australia’s oldest newspapers has appointed its first female editor, with Elise Potter to take over the reins of the Geelong Advertiser in January.
Current editor Liam Houlihan has resigned to pursue new opportunities, and will continue as editor until the end of December.
Houlihan said he never had a dull day during his 15 years at News Corp but that it was time to pursue “the next adventure”.
“It’s been an honour to be at the helm of this great paper with such a storied history for three years,” he said.
“I’m proud that we have boosted readership by 45 per cent across platforms, have added thousands of digital subscribers and been awarded Media Outlet of the Year by the Rural Press Club.
“In my three years as editor it has been great to work with a talented team, constantly break exclusive news and keep the powers that be honest.
“I know Elise Potter will do an excellent job continuing to build the Addy and inform the city.”
News Corp Australia’s Victorian Managing Director — Editorial, Peter Blunden, said he was delighted to announce Potter as the new editor of the Advertiser.
Potter has been deputy editor for the past three years.
“Elise brings more than 20 years’ experience in the media to the editorship, including previous roles as editor of the weekly community title, the Geelong News, and editor and journalist with Leader newspapers,” Blunden said.
“She is a passionate and committed member of the Geelong and Bellarine Peninsula communities and her understanding of the Geelong Advertiser community and its audience is exemplary.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Liam who has led the Geelong Advertiser team with great editorial skill, following a distinguished career in various writing and newsmanagement roles with the Herald Sun and Sunday Herald Sun.”
Potter will start her new role as editor in January.