Local journalists on learning mission in Australia
By Lachlan Eddie
In Canberra, Australia
Eight Solomon Islands journalists representing various media organizations are currently in Australia for an eight-day International Media Visit from 1 to 8 June, 2025.
The aim of the visit is to learn about and understand Australia as a traditional development partner of Solomon Islands.
It also provides an opportunity for the journalists to strengthen the Solomon Islands-Australia Media Sector Partnership and build connections for future collaboration.
The delegation includes:
- Christopher Adifaka, Owner, Barava FM
- Lachlan Eddie, Journalist, Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC)
- Ruthina Koroa, Station Manager, ZFM 99.5
- Indy Maelasia, Reporter, Islands Sun newspaper
- Georgina Maka’a, Co-Owner, In-depth Solomons
- Loretta Manele, Sub-Editor, Island Sun newspaper
- Bradford Noda, Visual Editor, Tavuli News
- Ronald Toito’ona, In-depth Solomons
The journalists departed Solomon Islands on June 1, 2025, accompanied by Samuel Cox, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Visit Liaison Officer and Second Secretary at the Australian High Commission Solomon Islands.
Two additional liaison officers will join the team today: Ms. Anjali Aiyer, Graduate Officer with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Mr. Rohan Geraghty, Police Officer with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Today marks the second day of the visit, coinciding with an Australian public holiday.
The journalists will participate in several key events including a private “First Nations Experience of Democracy” tour at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House, visit the Reconciliation Day Markets, take a private tour of the Australian War Memorial, attend the Last Post ceremony at the Australian War Memorial Commemorative Area, and will conclude the day watching the Women’s Football match between the Matildas and Argentina.
In the coming days, the journalists will engage in roundtable discussions with relevant stakeholders and visit key locations in both Canberra and Sydney.
The International Media Visit began in Canberra and will conclude in Sydney on Sunday, June 8, 2025.
This International Media Visit is sponsored by the Australian Government.
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