Hannah’s Story wins Gold for Best Narrative Documentary at the NY Festival Radio Awards.
In a prestigious international recognition, 9News Queensland and 9Podcasts‘ collaboration, Hannah’s Story, has clinched the Gold award for Best Narrative Documentary podcast at the New York Festival Radio Awards. The announcement was made this morning, affirming the podcast’s significant impact and reach.
Hosted by Melissa Downes and produced by Jess Lodge with sound design by Adam Buncher of 9Podcast, Hannah’s Story has risen to prominence, topping Australian podcast charts and capturing global attention. The series explores the tragic case of Hannah Clarke and her three children, who were murdered in a horrifying act of domestic violence by Rowan Baxter, Clarke’s estranged husband, on a quiet street in Brisbane.
The six-part series gives a voice to Hannah’s family, witnesses, first responders, and experts in domestic violence, and has sparked widespread discussions on coercive control. It highlights the critical importance of recognizing early warning signs in personal relationships to help prevent similar tragedies.
Hannah’s Story has been recognized with multiple awards and is now a key component in educational initiatives on coercive control, including programs run by Queensland Police and Victoria Police, and is integral to the national campaign by Small Steps 4 Hannah.
The podcast also supports the advocacy work of Hannah’s parents, Sue and Lloyd Clarke, leading to the enactment of “Hannah’s Law” on 6 March 2024, which made coercive control a criminal offence in Queensland.
Melissa Downes and Jess Lodge expressed their pride in the international acclaim the podcast has received.
“We are so proud to see Hannah’s Story recognised on the global stage. Our deepest thanks go to Hannah’s parents Sue and Lloyd, brother Nathanial, friends and all those who contributed to this podcast.
To have this incredibly important story reaching an international audience is a credit to their courage and commitment to creating change and saving lives.”
Amanda Paterson, 9News Queensland Director of News, highlighted the dual role of Hannah’s Story in journalism and public education.
“From earning national accolades to becoming a source of education on coercive control and now gaining international recognition, Hannah’s Story epitomises the impactful journalism of 9News Queensland.”
Mia Stern, Head of 9Podcasts, also commended the project’s success.
“Hannah’s Story is an extraordinary example of the power of investigative journalism in podcasting, and to see the incredible work of Melissa, Jess and Adam recognised on a global stage is a testament to their dedication and commitment to the integrity of this story.”
