Best Regional Publication –
GOLD - Aurora is an attractive publication, with very professional writing and layout. The advertising is also appealing adding to the quality of the publication. It should cater to a wide range of readers, with a range of subjects. There does seem to be a preference to a ‘puce – purple’ colour throughout the magazine which may not be universally appealing.
SILVER - The Willochran - Here we have a quality publication obviously produced with a restricted budget. It fulfils its purpose keeping the constituents of Willochra informed. It covers a wide range of interests and is initially attractive. The quality and use of photographs are especially appealing adding to the whole package. Long may it
Best New Writer
Gold
War Cry - NZ, Fiji, Tonga & Samoa
Jules Badger ponders the much-loved lyrics of Amazing Grace and reflects on her own experience of God’s unmerited favour.
In this well-structured essay, based on the lines of this famous hymn, Jules says she first witnessed grace inaction when her terminally ill father was radically converted shortly before his death.
This same grace also touched Badger’s life, enabling her to quit the binge-drinking and promiscuity in which she had tried to drown her grief. She too became a follower of Jesus. But can an emphasis on grace cause us to be irresponsible? Can we have too much of it?
Badger asks rhetorically. The answer is no. Grace is extravagant, immeasurable, generous, complete, and always needed. A beautiful essay on a timeless theme.
Silver
Australian Catholic
Is there such a thing as too much grace?’ by Jules Badger, ‘My mental health journey’ by Caitlin Humphrys.
Mental health conditions dogged Caitlin Humphrys’ life for two decades, causing her depression and anxiety from her teenage years. But through a tortuous journey involving hospitals, medications, psychiatrists, therapists and a supportive family, Caitlin found God to be sufficient.
She writes candidly of her ups and downs, and of the faith which has kept her going. That faith remains a crucial part of how she cares for her mental health today. This is an honest and fascinating story which may well bless readers who are experiencing similar struggles. Well done, Caitlin!‘
To read the Judges Comments - ARPA web site
https://www.arpa.news/awards2020