Yesterday, The Huffington Post made its much-anticipated arrival on the Australian scene a day earlier than predicted, bringing with it exciting team news. Today show co-host Lisa Wilkinson is the latest media member to be announced as part of HuffPost’s Australian team - appointed editor-at-large for the site.
The Huffington Post co-founder, president and editor-in-chief Arianna Huffington says of the launch: “HuffPost Australia marks the 15th edition in HuffPost’s growing global network, which is now present on six of the seven continents. And we couldn’t have found a better partner than Fairfax Media.
“Together, we’ve built a hub for reporting on the critical issues the country faces, exploring the themes that can help Australians live more fulfilling lives, and opening up the conversation to all Australians, not just about the challenges the country is facing, but also about the solutions and innovations that are making a difference.”
HuffPost Australia’s chief executive officer Chris Janz adds: “It’s great to have turned the lights on at HuffPost Australia – the destination for all Australians to voice their thoughts, have their opinions heard, and be constantly connected to what’s happening. In less than six months, we’ve assembled a highly-talented, strong editorial team, led by editor-in-chief Tory Maguire, who have hit the ground running to bring Australians the latest news, opinions and commentary that will shape the local agenda.”
On Wilkinson’s appointment, Maguire comments: “Lisa Wilkinson is a fabulous addition to the HuffPost Australia team as editor-at-large. She’s a highly-respected and much-loved TV broadcaster through her role on the Today show, with a strong personality, intelligence and persuasive style that resonates with many. In HuffPost Australia, Lisa has the perfect platform to further broaden and deepen her connection to audiences, and inspire others to share their perspectives on what matters most to them.”
Wilkinson herself said in a statement that the opportunity was too big to refuse: “I was thrilled to be approached by Arianna [Huffington]. When you find an email in your inbox on a Saturday morning from one of the most influential women in the world, well, it’s hard to say ‘no’ to. And I’m going to love getting my teeth back into writing again.”
