The ABC, in partnership with Kidney Health Australia, has announced Alex Tighe as the recipient of the inaugural Mark Colvin journalism scholarship.
The 12-month paid cadetship commemorates the life and work of the esteemed ABC journalist, who died in 2017 due to complications related to kidney disease.
ABC managing director Michelle Guthrie said: “The Mark Colvin Scholarship is a fitting tribute for such a giant of Australian journalism, ensuring that his commitment to accuracy, honesty and integrity will be passed on to future generations.
“Alex Tighe is a worthy recipient of this honour. Alex’s work in law and journalism demonstrates the qualities of critical analysis, creativity and curiosity that Mark held so dear. I am confident that Alex will continue Mark’s great legacy at the ABC.”
Mark Colvin
Tighe said: “Mark Colvin was an incredible journalist and a great man, and it’s humbling to hold a scholarship in his name. His legacy is an embodiment of all that’s best about the ABC: intellectual rigour, empathy and perpetual curiosity. I hope to do my part towards continuing that tradition at the ABC.”
Tighe, 23, has worked in community media as a writer, editor and radio producer. His journalism career started aged 13 when he hosted a program on community radio. His work includes a story on his mother’s kidney disease and the challenges of accessing medical treatment in regional NSW. He has held internships at ABC RN, triple j and Four Corners and worked as a paralegal and media adviser for a Sydney law firm.
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Top Photo: Alex Tighe