As the South Sydney Herald turns a new page, its spirit of community journalism continues to shine. Anna Jahjah, the paper’s new managing editor, steps into the role with a deep respect for its legacy – and a passion for its future.
Taking over from the Rev. Andrew Collis, who has led the paper since 2007, Anna brings with her a rich background in the arts and a personal connection to the inner city. “I’m a French-Lebanese woman who moved to Sydney 13 years ago,” she says. “I fell in love with Redfern when I first lived here in my twenties. Later, I joined a local art class and choir – and started reading the SSH to understand the community around me. Now, working for the paper feels both unreal and amazing.”
Andrew’s leadership of the SSH was part of his broader role as minister at South Sydney Uniting Church, which publishes the paper. With Uniting Church placements typically lasting 10 years, his recent transition marks the end of an 18-year chapter of ministry and editorial guidance. “The experience taught me so much about community and justice – the right to affordable housing, access to reliable information, safe and green space, advocacy for the most vulnerable,” he says. “I’ve learnt to appreciate the role of First Nations leaders in the community. Amid concerns for the future – resisting greed and careless/callous overdevelopment – lies the deep challenge to better support calls for Indigenous justice.”
News editor Lyn Turnbull, who has worked alongside Andrew for many years, shares his appreciation for the paper’s community focus. “Some of our best stories have come to me while walking around the neighbourhood,” she says. “I’m always moved by the kindness and commitment of our volunteers.” She’s seen the paper evolve from a print-first platform to one that must balance both print and digital. Yet, the mission remains clear. “Trevor Davies started the SSH because the mainstream media overlooked the good in our area,” Lyn recalls. “We’re here to tell human stories and offer a voice to those seldom heard.”
Anna agrees that continuing this work – while expanding online and through social media – is essential. “Local news creates connection. In a world that can feel fractured, people crave stories that reflect their lives and values.”
As Andrew passes the torch, he says simply, “There’s much good work to do”. And with Anna, Lyn and its team of contributors and distributors, the SSH is ready to keep doing it – one story at a time.
