Media Matters: Adam Murray, NBN News
Adam Murray has just been promoted to the role of sports editor and presenter at the Northern NSW regional TV station Nine NBN.
Peak Presenting caught up with Adam to hear how the kid from the NSW Central West town of Gilgandra ended up presenting sport on NBN News.
Whether you are an athlete or a professional or community sporting club or association, Adam shares some tips on how you can work effectively with the media to get coverage of your sport story.
Tell us about your career to date
I was the kid who would commentate himself playing backyard footy and cricket and dreaming of one day being Ken Sutcliffe or Ray Warren. My first media job was fresh out of university [Adam studied a Bachelor of Communication Journalism at Charles Sturt University] as a video journalist in Dubbo. For two years I was effectively the solo reporter, cameraman and editor for the Western Plains region at both WIN News and NINE News.
I then moved to NBN News in Port Macquarie as a reporter in 2019. Six month's later I was working in the Newcastle office. In the space of three busy and rewarding years, I am now the sports editor and presenter.
What is your favourite or most memorable story?
This is a hard one because I genuinely love almost every story I do, whether that’s a local grand final, a rising star or covering something like State of Origin. One that probably stands out a little more than the others is the Knights NRLW Grand Final win. The players are amazing and are so open and grateful.
What makes a good news story?
The talent. Someone who is open and honest always makes for an interesting yarn.
One thing people should avoid doing when working with media?
Expecting their story to be given a large amount of airtime when there isn't anything interesting or new. Pitching a story and not having any talent willing to speak is also a big pet peeve.
Your top tip for people to gain media coverage?
First, reach out. Too often I am told about an event after the fact. Those who are organised and give a heads up about an upcoming match or milestone are awesome to work with. Having talent willing to speak and pictures is crucial for TV.
Your top tip for presenting well?
The best advice I've been given is to be yourself, relax and most importantly be prepared. Know what you are going to be talking about and always look to improve.
How do you relax outside of work?
Spending time with my fiancé Courtney and golden retriever, Hugo. They take my mind off the stresses of work and make me laugh everyday. It is very hard for me not to watch sport though in my spare time, it’s an obsession. I love listening to music and I’m not afraid to admit I’m a massive Harry Styles fan.
Connect with and share your story with Adam Murray at NBN News. You can follow and connect with Adam on X (Twitter) and LinkedIn. Send him a sport news tip to admurray@nine.com.au.