Chronicle editor to retire after four decades in news industry

The Chronicle editor-in-chief Steve Etwell is wrapping up after 15 years in the position, and 42 years in the news industry.

The Chronicle editor-in-chief Steve Etwell.

It has been my great privilege to be the editor of The Chronicle over the past 15 years.

But the time has come for me to retire.

My last day here will be March 24.

There are far too many people for me to thank individually.

But the support and trust the community has shown me and The Chronicle has been amazing and much appreciated.

So, too, are the many friendships my wife and I have made – many of them lifelong.

We have seen tough times and many more happier times but through it all The Chronicle team has always been the champion of this city and the Darling Downs.

Any editor knows that they are only the temporary steward of their newspaper and website.

I know the city will get behind my successor.

They will be coming to one of the best cities in Australia, populated by people whose generosity is unequalled; and whose economic prosperity makes us one of the nation’s best places to live, work and play.

The Chronicle has always been the voice of the people. Particularly those who have no other avenue of hope; those who sometimes fall between the cracks.

The stories I am most proud of are those where we, with your help, have extended a helping hand to those less fortunate.

Now, more than ever, your local newspaper and website are of vital importance and I urge readers to continue the terrific support you have shown me and my team.

Nothing could have been achieved by me personally without the unfailing support of my wife Meryl.

Few people would be aware of the toll this job can take on relationships.

So thank you for the far-too-many times you let my work take priority over our family.

It has been 42 years in journalism for me and I would not change a day of it.

Now I’ll concentrate on the 3Gs – grandkids, gardening and golf. I’ll miss you all.