Sky News Australia anchor Paul Murray is heading to Armidale this weekend, and the city is about to give him a proper New England welcome.
Murray is hopefully bringing his thermal underwear as well as his live regional special “Our Town” to Armidale, broadcasting tomorrow, Sunday 26 July, from 9pm. Locals have been clamouring for a spot in the audience, though we hope the heating is cranked for the forecast four degrees, feeling a lot closer to zero, just as the cameras start rolling.
Our Town is Sky News’ non-political road trip around regional Australia, dropping in on local businesses, community groups, tourism operators and everyday residents. Asked why Armidale made the list, Murray said the show deliberately goes looking for good news.
“The whole point of ‘Our Town’ is to come when times are normal,” Mr Murray said.
“Too often the media only turn up when there’s a bad story to tell. Things like natural disasters, crime or job losses.”
“We are the opposite. It’s about showing off the lifestyle and joy of living in Armidale.”
He has a personal stake in the visit too. Murray has family in Armidale, and by his own account, they will not stop talking about the place.
“I’ve got family here and they love it. So this one’s going to be easy to spread the good word.”
The theme of the discussion will be about resilience, recreation and creativity, but Murray says the intent is learn about the community during his visit, keeping it broad rather than digging for problems.
“It’s not a political forum so it’s not about problems that need funding.”
“It’s about seeing how the city works. How it works in the wider region and how it works within the wider country.”
“The uni is something to be very proud of. People are coming from all over the country to firstly study.”
“But to me even more importantly to experience the joy of regional life.”
Asked what locals could expect from the broadcast itself, he said it would mix filmed segments with live crosses on the night.
“We will have a mix of pre-recorded packages that show some of the area’s natural beauty and some of the great cultural experiences you’ve got.”
“We will have live guests with great stories to tell.”
Mr Murray will be around town this weekend, and while it will be minus 3 tonight and the frost may take all morning to melt, the warmth of the welcome should make up for it.
“If you see me around this weekend, say g’day. No better way to learn than having a chat.”
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