Judges' reasons
The standard within this category was superior in comparison to the previous years and as such, the judges found it a pleasure to judge. The winning entry, however, stood head and shoulders above the other regional finalists. There are a number of criteria against which this entry was judged – quality of writing and balanced and fair reporting. On the issue of news value, analysis and depth of understanding, this entry scored exceptionally well. In fact, these may well be the most important and far-reaching financial stories of the past year. It created a furore and highlighted what the judges referred to as "economic recycling". In a world of sound bites, the power of thorough research and analysis becomes patently clear. When reading these pieces it is obvious that hard work, determination and insight enhanced the basic journalism skills. The consequences of the investigation and the resounding articles that followed will be felt for some time. Executives' golden parachute – 18 February 2005Gold fields – 18 February 2005Executive pay shoots up from sublime to the ludicrous – 18 February 2005Disclosure rules have set off a race to the top – 18 February 2005State's top packages frugal by comparison – 18 February 2005Executive pay: The best of the listed bunch – 21 February 2005
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