Established in the mid-1800’s, the Betoota Advocate is (very) arguably Australia’s oldest newspaper and these current keepers of the flame have always taken pride in their ability to walk in both worlds: regional and metropolitan news.
They believe the time has come for their town to step up and put on a game-changing international event that would be the envy of the world.
If they can find it on a map.
Some minor issues pertaining to infrastructure, climate and the lack of a global reputation for hosting major international sporting events were canvassed during the breakfast discussion with host Amy Phillips.
But if enthusiastic advocacy and audience support was a criteria Betoota is shaping as a gold medal contender to push Brisbane off the 2032 hosting-rights podium.
The bid was made as the Betoota Advocate boys gave their own unique take on the status of their small and independent “real” regional newspaper in far-west Queensland.
With laser sharp reporting and authenticity as biting as the salt on the sunburnt earth surrounding the Queensland Channel Country town, they offered a wide ranging commentary on the state of play in the beef industry, agriculture more broadly and the media landscape.
Investors at the breakfast would also have taken note: if the Advocate pulls off Betoota 2032, property prices in and around town will certainly be trending upward – keep it on the watch list as a “maybe”.
Go Betoota!!!