This award recognises a journalist who has most improved the public’s understanding of the engineering
industry’s role and contributions to society. The award is open to print, radio and television journalists.

Charmian Smith -
The Anatomy of a City
Otago Daily Times

It is all too easy for people to forget that any city is reliant on the often hidden work of engineers. Engineering projects do not often command attention in tourist guides, but they can be fascinating to readers, if explained well.

Charmian’s article did a great job of communicating to a lay audience the vital role engineers played in developing the city of Dunedin. Her article looked at the city’s pioneering engineering works, including laying the sewerage system, building bridges, and undertaking land reclamation of the harbour.

Her research included interviewing engineers and trawling through old newspapers. She used a combination of period photographs, maps and news reports to tell her story. Her article also highlighted new heritage trails that those interested in the topic can walk to learn more about the engineering projects and see them first hand.

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