Te Awamutu Courier closure: editor Dean Taylor says farewell to a friend

For 25 years this was the Te Awamutu Courier editorial team, pictured in the 90s, from left: Dean Taylor, Cathy Asplin, Grant Johnston and Colin Thorsen.

I have been thinking about how to write this for some time and it turns out I don’t have much more to say.

I expressed my feelings when the possibility of closure was announced, and I still believe it is the wrong outcome, but I am also relieved a decision has been made.

We have covered the history of the 113-year-old business several times in recent years, starting with extensive coverage for our 100th in 2011.

And others have contributed or said kind words about the paper and how its loss will be felt.

Earlier this week, I have included my interview with my first boss John Warburton, whose family started and ran the paper for so many years, and my editorial colleagues Grant Johnston, Colin Thorsen and Cathy Asplin — a team for about 25 years.

Also, my newish friend Julia McCarthy-Fox submitted a piece completely unprovoked — so I don’t need to say too much.

Officially, this is my last paper — and I have loved just about every minute of the past 37 years doing this job.

I say officially because news that some of our titles have sold is being released and the Te Awamutu Courier has attracted interest. There is no news yet — but watch this space.

I thank everyone who has shown concern over the fate of the Courier and enquired about me, my prospects and my state of mental health. By the way, I’m fine.

Once the team of four started to split up, I was faced with a new task — employing reporters.

I was blessed with some lovely young people who served this town so well in their time with me.

My special thanks go to Bethany Rolston, Caitlan Johnston and Jesse Wood — all fine young people and excellent reporters from right here in our district.

A huge thank you also to everyone who has been a workmate over the 37 years. The Courier was family and always will be.

After today my plan is to enjoy Christmas with my family and then make the most of a summer holiday that doesn’t include coming back to work soon after the New Year.