Join us for this UniSQ Thought Leadership Series event, where a distinguished panel of journalists, editors, and media experts will examine how digital disruption, citizen journalism, paywalls, podcasts, and social media are transforming the way the public consumes news. Explore how the Fourth Estate is responding to challenges of truth, trust, and accountability in today’s rapidly evolving media landscape.
After the panel discussion, enjoy light refreshments while networking and continuing the conversation. Register now to secure your spot.
Event details
- RSVP: By Monday 29 September (bookings are essential)
- Date: Thursday 2 October 2025
- Time: Doors open at 5.30pm for a 6pm start. Food, drinks, and networking from 7pm to 8pm.
- Location: UniSQ Brisbane – 293 Queen St, Brisbane City
Meet the panel
Cathie Schnitzerling was the first presenter of Landline in 1991, hosting and reporting on the program for four years. The UniSQ alumnus returned as executive producer in 2019, after serving as regional editor for Queensland. Cathie was the first female news director for the Ten Network in Brisbane and Sydney. She has worked as a reporter, presenter, and producer on television and radio, including The Queensland Country Hour. An award-winning writer and producer, Cathie was recognised for her leadership and mentoring with a Queensland Clarion award in 2014 for her contribution to journalism.
David Fagan is a leading editor, journalist and author with a distinguished career spanning more than three decades. He was the Editor-in-Chief of The Courier-Mail, where he led the transition from print to digital, and continues to contribute to public dialogue on media, politics, and social change through his writing and commentary. The UniSQ alumnus is a regular contributor to national publications and serves on several community and corporate boards.
An award-winning writer, editor, critic, and academic, Dr Kate Cantrell is a senior lecturer in writing, editing, and publishing at UniSQ. Kate has analysed the ethics and influence of true-crime storytelling, most recently providing expert insight into the national coverage of the high-profile Erin Patterson “mushroom trial” and the role of podcasts in shaping public perception. She has contributed over 80 scholarly articles, book chapters, and conference papers, as well as high-impact pieces in media such as The Conversation and Times Higher Education.
Taylah Mahony is a third-year UniSQ student, pursuing a combined Bachelor of Arts (Journalism) and Bachelor of Science (Plant Agricultural Science). She was recently awarded the prestigious 2025–26 AgriFutures Australia Horizon Scholarship, an honour recognising her emerging leadership in the field.
A renowned radio presenter with more than three decades of on-air experience, David Iliff has built a loyal audience by blending insightful interviews, current affairs, and community-focused content. As the breakfast presenter at ABC Southern Queensland, his dedication to authentic, meaningful conversation continues to inspire and entertain.
Fake News and the Fourth Estate