And there is no doubt that it has stood on shaky ground as readers have embraced other ways of getting their news than just traditional print products.

The sad thing for regional and rural areas is that the local paper has been the glue that has brought communities together.

And the Yass Tribune has played a key role in ensuring a community remained just that – a community. There's a certain amount of sticky beak in all of us, so our local paper meant something special to us.

Whether recording the birth of our children, celebrating the sporting achievements or mourning the loss of loved ones, the local newspaper was the place people turned.

Just as importantly, regional newspapers have been the nursery for some of the most talented journalists our country has seen.

Cutting their teeth covering the council meeting, or out there taking photos with the local schools, country journos have grown up experiencing what they are writing about – they don’t work in an ivory tower, but are part of the communities they serve.

The written word is still the most powerful form of journalism – it’s there for people to ponder, to dissect and to act on.

And while there have been tough times and challenges for newspapers everywhere, a new direction for the Tribune means we can plan on being around for a long time – a very long time.

Today is the first edition of the new-look Tribune – and while we are confident readers will enjoy the design upgrade, it’s the technology behind it that will ultimately deliver the rewards for readers and advertisers. No longer the poor cousin of electronic media – regional publishers are positioned to give readers the news and information they need – how and when they want it.

Enhanced websites, more social media interaction and improved printed products offer our community the opportunity to stay engaged – to know what’s happening and to participate in the many wonderful things this region has to offer.

We have the resources on the ground to keep reporting on the stories that matter and will do so for years to come.

This is the most exciting time we have experienced in journalism.

This advance in technology is the game-changer that will ensure our regions continue to have the voice they deserve whether in print, online or through our expanding social media network.