FIGHTING THE GOOD FIGHT

THE media is constantly evolving and reinventing itself but the reason for being of the fourth estate is not something that changes much.

One of its key functions is to hold power to account, keep those who wield it — both in public and private life — honest, shine a light on dark corners and serve in a watchdog capacity.

So the Bulletin makes no apology for justified scrutiny of the the affairs of some of the movers and shakers, politicians, lobbyists and spin merchants in this community.

It particularly makes no apology when those people are involved, though not always obviously, in key decisions affecting the city and its future.

That is part and parcel of what a good, strong local newspaper should do.

But it is not just about exposing what is going on in this city and its halls of power where decisions are made. It is about championing the community and shamelessly fighting for it on the big issues.

Think the much-needed fast-tracking of light rail’s second stage in the Commonwealth Games lead up or the constant pressure on thea need for an M1 fix.

The Bulletin’s new Golden Age campaign goes to the heart of this, fearlessly tackling issues crucial to our future.

It is critical a newspaper not shy away from stories or issues just because someone is powerful — we aim to publish without fear or favour in the public interest.

The Gold Coast has benefited — and suffered — from being a city of developers.

A key part of our dynamic is to foster a great entrepreneurial spirit, where people aren’t scared to have a crack and that is to be applauded. The darker side is where rich and powerful use their associations and connections to gain advantage over ordinary punters.

It is so important we promote the former and expose the latter. And the Bulletin will continue to do that without fear, without favour — and in your interest.