For Jessica van Vonderen, journalism has always been about people and stories.
“I grew up with the news being a big part of the household,” she said. “At 7pm, everyone had to stop what they were doing and watch the news. It made me aware of how important it is to stay connected to your community and the world.”
Her journey to becoming one of Queensland’s most recognisable newsroom faces can be traced back to the University of Southern Queensland, where a love of writing and curiosity about the world found direction.
Her time at UniSQ was hands-on from day one. “The coursework was steeped in practice and reflected what really happens in a newsroom,” van Vonderen said.
“We had to go out into the community, find stories, interview people, meet strict deadlines, and compile television and radio bulletins.”
A work experience stint at ABC Radio in Toowoomba gave her the vital foot in the door that ultimately led to a full-time job.
Her career has spanned radio, television, and digital media, where she has reported on major events and spoken with countless Australians. Cyclones Yasi and Larry left lasting impressions.
“Being there to witness what people had gone through, in some cases losing everything, and hearing their stories, it really sticks with you,” she said.
“The fact that they tell their stories while experiencing something so traumatic is always astonishing to me.”
Trust remains central to her work. “Every person you speak to is trusting you with their experiences and story. You always want to do right by them,” she said.
Journalism has changed significantly since van Vonderen began her studies at UniSQ.
“The media landscape is now fragmented, with stories told across radio, television, digital platforms, and social media,” she said.
“While this opens opportunities to reach wider audiences, it also raises challenges around misinformation.
“People need to be aware of the information they’re reading. Is it accurate? Is it coming from a trusted source?”
Despite the challenges, van Vonderen remains passionate about her craft. Her advice for aspiring journalists reflects the realities of today’s multifaceted media landscape.
“Consume news voraciously. Gain skills across as many platforms as you can. Do work experience. Be curious, enthusiastic, respectful, and gutsy,” she said.
“Say yes to opportunities – each one could be another step.”
From the practical training at UniSQ to the high-pressure environment of the ABC, Jessica van Vonderen embodies the enduring value of rigorous, ethical, and empathetic journalism – a profession she insists is more essential than ever.
Jessica van Vonderen will host the 2025 UniSQ Alumni Awards on Thursday 23 October
