Australia’s first woman sports editor Marg Ralston remembers writing the final back page of The News with vivid clarity.
“It doesn't seem like 20 years since I wrote the final chapter on the back page of The News (RIP),” recalls Marg, whose active career since includes stints in politics and public relations as well as collecting an AM for her outstanding services to sports.
“It was a sad and traumatic day. Good friends were lamenting the fate that had befallen them and trying to contemplate what the future held for them and their families. Security personnel were trying to be sympathetic while at the same time moving staff towards the door.
“Watching this while trying to compose that final back page was something I would not like to have to do again. But having said that, I really wanted to send the ‘Old Girl’ off with dignity and respect. She had served us well and the memories and friendships made can never be taken away from us.
“There's a ‘paper man’ on the entrance to Rundle Mall. He's now 70 and I often stop and speak to him. He loved The News and has many tales to tell me about never-ending lines at Adelaide Railway Station waiting for their copy of The News. He's has only one arm and is struggling a bit but he does have a big heart and The News fills a very important place in it.”
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