Ms Sinanidis and Ms Gibson will lead the news teams at the Inverell Times, Moree Champion and Goondiwindi Argus, part of the Fairfax Media ACM New England group, from June 6.

A project leader, educator and wordsmith, Ms Sinanidis has taken the helm, editing three North West mastheads. She arrived in Australia from Greece in May with extensive experience in web, print, broadcast, advertising and social media communications. 

“I am used to working in fast-paced environments and multi-functional teams,” she said,

“From these, I have learnt the importance of building strong relationships with my teams, clients and target audiences while keeping an eye on the goals at hand. I’m always ready for new challenges and opportunities where I can bring a versatility that offers a unique perspective to my work.”

Ms Gibson joined the Inverell Times after more than 10 years reporting on issues affecting rural and remote communities in Far North Queensland.  A love of rural community life brought her to Inverell, where she took up the position of senior journalist on Monday.

 "I'm really looking forward to settling in this beautiful region, getting to know the people, and reporting on the issues that are important to them," she said. 

Incumbent North West group journalist Naomi Shumack was born and bred in Inverell. She attended school locally before graduating the University of Woolongong with a Bachelors in Communications and Media Studies, and International Studies. She reports on issues affecting local people in Moree, Goondiwindi and Inverell, where her job is based. “I have a strong affection for this town and am keen to keep community journalism alive,” she said.

Group managing editor for New England Juanita Greville said she was delighted to have Mary and Heidi joining the team.

“It will make for a strong team of journalists, based locally and reporting on issues that matter to the local community.”