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From studying in Ipswich to newsrooms across the country

USQ student Liam Vicary (right) with 7 News journalist Alex Lewis.

University of Southern Queensland Television and Radio students are kicking goals in newsrooms across the country.

Among them is Liam Vickary who recently started work as a Channel Seven camera operator in the Press Gallery at Parliament House in Canberra.

The former Springfield Anglican College student started his career with the television network in Mackay, but relocated to the nation’s capital to capture the big stories in federal politics.

USQ Senior Lecturer (TV and Radio Broadcast) Dr Ashley Jones said Liam’s success was a result of his hard work as a student and the university’s focus on developing practical skills.

“We take a very hands-on approach, and with the state-of-the-art equipment we have, students are job-ready by the time they leave university,” Dr Jones said.

Starting their careers at 7 News Mackay this year with two other USQ students, Crystalyn Brown and Alexander Shaw.

Both had just finished their final year of study at USQ Springfield when they were offered their positions.

But it’s not just the Seven Network where USQ students are getting their first break into the media industry.

Taylah Berry and Daniel Judson have started working for 9News in Mackay and Rockhampton respectively, while Matthew Freedman, an honours student, recently earned an internship with Channel 9 Brisbane.

Other students to secure new roles in recent months include Mitchell Hook, Lydia Hart and Damien Haffenden.

Meanwhile, Dylan MacLachlan was awarded a $2000 Video and Graphics Scholarship with Ipswich City Council.

He entered the competitive round with an impressive body of work to take out the major goal.

“Our focus is to teach things embedded in practice both in studio and on location,” Dr Jones said.

“Our equipment is industry standard so graduates are familiar with the gear and procedures from day one on the job and can hit the ground running. That makes them a valuable asset to a network.”

Where are they now – recent graduates:

  • Liam Vickary – Seven Network, Press Gallery, Canberra
  • Crystalyn brown and Alexander Shaw – 7 News Mackay
  • Taylah Berry – 9News Mackay
  • Daniel Judson – 9News Rockhampton
  • Matthew Freedom – Channel 9 Brisbane
  • Mitchell Hook – moved from 7 News Toowoomba to Brisbane
  • Lydia Hart – Seven Network’s social media team
  • Damien Haffenden – 7 News Sunshine Coast social media team

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