Journalism student wins internship at radio station RSN

Sports broadcaster Steve Cairns, who died suddenly in 2015, had a history of supporting young journalists and was an important role model for some of Victoria’s most prominent sporting commentators.

He had been the program manager at RSN for close to two decades.

In memory of Cairns, RMIT’s journalism program and RSN Racing and Sport 927AM has awarded a one month paid scholarship to Thomas to do an internship as part of his Journalism Professional Placement course in 2017.

Thomas is currently a second year of the Bachelor of Communication (Journalism) student who has an extensive background in sport. 

As an elite junior tennis player, he trained extensively in the Tennis Australia system before heading to the United States on a sports scholarship.

After 2.5 years in Los Angeles at Loyola Marymount University he returned home to complete his degree in the field of journalism. 

Thomas’ interests revolve around sports journalism and include AFL, tennis and horse racing; a passion that he looks to be involved in once his degree is complete.

RSN’s John Thwaites said it was a difficult decision as the candidates for the paid internship were once again examples of the high calibre of student that produced at RMIT.

“A tough decision. However, Tom has that key ingredient of a passion for racing,” Thwaites said.

RMIT’s coordinator of the Journalism Professional Placement Alex Wake said it was pleasing to see the RSN take the lead among media players by offering such a valuable paid learning opportunity for students.

“It is gratifying when employers show their belief in young people by financially rewarding students while they are working, and learning, alongside experienced journalists,” Wake said.

Price greeted his selection with enthusiasm.

“Growing up in a family of thoroughbred owners I have always felt connected to the racecourse and horses and have been attending the races since I can remember.

"The opportunity to be involved at RSN, one of the leading AM radio stations that covers all things racing would be an unbelievable chance to make my dream a reality.

"I am the type of person who wakes up on a Saturday morning religiously to listen to On The Punt, and getting an chance to work on programs like this would be a great experience for me,” Price said.

Story: Wendy Little and Dr Alex Wake