Fairfax rolls out 14 new websites across NSW

Having tackled and triumphed in Queensland after launching brisbanetimes.com.au, Bruce Wolpe, director of corporate affairs, Fairfax media denied that the launch was in anyway a reaction to the Queensland site's success. "Brisbanetimes is a distinct concept and execution," he said.

The new websites are an extension, not a replacement for print publications, Wolpe added: "The websites are additive to the print readership and provide an extra dimension of engagement with our audience." While Fairfax has increased its online presence, Wolpe reassured that the websites would not result in reductions to print runs. "But we expect overall audience growth," he said.

Readers were behind the developments, having requested online counterparts to compliment the newspapers. This is reflective of recent news trends, according to Jack Matthews, ceo of Fairfax Digital. "As the nature of news consumption changes and readers look to interact with news, locally-focused online outlets are quickly becoming as relevant and critical to the media landscape as metropolitan and national news sites," he said.

Readers are also able to submit news stories about their local area, post local event listings and view sports results for their demographic. "To be successful, local news and information sites must be dynamic," said John Stafford, general manager, Fairfax NSW. "By embracing community-generated content alongside the quality reporting of Fairfax journalists we are creating local hubs that encourage community interaction."

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