Hints and tips for ‘DIY’ Team World Vision Media:

• Decide what event you will be participating in



• Identify your local newspaper.  The paper will require that you live in the region of the paper.  A useful website to do this is http://www.newspapers.com.au/



• Use the template media release, include the details of the event you’re registered for and the ‘Team World Vision’ angle you would like the media to report on. (Remember to delete the brackets and italics)



• Perhaps stage a “photo opportunity” prior to the event and invite the local media to gain pre-event publicity. This will ensure that you have a photograph for the newspaper to use, a key ingredient in local media. (This could also ensure you get more financial support prior to the event)



• In addition to the media release and photography the newspaper will probably want to conduct a short interview. 



• Remember to talk from your own experience about:
  - what you’re hoping to achieve
  - why you’re a part of Team World Vision
  - when you are participating
  - where the event is (ie. event details)



• Don’t forget your own contact details at the bottom of the media release, including your ‘Everyday Hero’ URL

Remember that:

• local newspapers are sometimes resource-poor therefore may not have a journalist or photographer available at the exact time you have specified - you may need to be flexible to have them come along.
• local newspapers are generally weekly publications therefore need about 1-2 weeks notice in order to plan the paper and make the news applicable. 
• you are representing yourself, not World Vision.

Media Release Template