At last week's parliament, Federal Member for Parkes, Mark Coulton paid tribute to Narrabri’s Ian and Wanda Dunnet, who have recently retired after selling their family heirloom, The Narrabri Courier and its associated papers. It is the first time in 104 years that The Courier has had a change in ownership which is an incredible achievement in this day and age.

"Rural newspapers have been dealt a shocking blow by corporate takeovers, but our locally owned papers are in safe hands. It's people like the Dunnets, Lucie Peart from the Gilgandra Weekly and Lee O'Connor from the Coonamble Times who understand the importance of local journalism and are committed to their communities." says Coulton

"I thank the Dunnets for what they've done in 104 years, and I wish the new owners, Mark and Susie Slack-Smith, all the best with their endeavours to keep local journalism alive and thriving."

Photo: Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton pictured paying tribute to Ian and Wanda Dunnet from Narrabri in Parliament last week.