Serena Cremen Farrington finds her voice in regional journalism
Storytelling has guided Serena from a young age into journalism.
March 24, 2026
Serena has always been a natural storyteller. Whether she was performing as a kid, debating at school, or studying journalism, she’s always been driven by a curiosity about people and their stories.
When Serena Cremen Farrington packed up her life in Canberra and moved to Wollongong, it was not just for a degree. It was for a lifestyle, a challenge and a chance to tell stories that matter.
Now in her third year as a Bachelor of Communications and Media (Journalism) student, Serena has added another milestone to her journey. She is the inaugural recipient of the WIN News Broadcast Scholarship, stepping inside a professional newsroom for the first time and discovering a new side of journalism.
A natural storyteller
“I was always performing something,” she said. “Storytelling was a form of expression for me. As I got older, that turned into an interest in politics, current affairs and the world around me.”
That curiosity led her to study media and communications at UOW, where she now majors in journalism and marketing. After a year living independently in England, moving to Wollongong felt like a natural next step.
“I think it’s a very Canberra thing to grow up inland and then move as close to the beach as you can,” she laughed.
But it was not just the coastline that attracted her. Serena was drawn to UOW’s reputation in journalism and its close-knit learning environment.
“I know my tutors. I’ve had incredibly supportive lecturers who’ve gone above and beyond,” she said, singling out Dr Benjamin Ball as a mentor who has shaped her thinking about storytelling beyond breaking news.
Learning by doing
Journalism is not a degree you can master purely in a lecture theatre. From live radio practice to studio production and student news platforms, UOW’s facilities have played a key role in Serena’s development.
“Being able to use professional equipment and practise in real studio environments makes it feel real,” she said. “It bridges that gap between theory and practice.”
Outside the classroom, Serena has also created her own podcast and immersed herself in campus life, living in student accommodation and building lasting friendships.
Inside the newsroom
Walking into the newsroom for the first time was both exciting and overwhelming, and Serena is grateful for the opportunities the WIN News Broadcast Scholarship has opened her up to.
“I was struck by how much is happening at once,” she said. “With multiple regional bulletins running and tight deadlines, it’s a fast-paced environment.”
What surprised her most was the scope of each journalist’s role.
“They’re finding stories, interviewing, writing, voicing, editing and meeting deadlines, often all in the same day,” she said. “It’s complex, but it’s also incredibly energising.”
The experience has shifted her perspective on her future.
“I never really saw myself in broadcast before,” she said. “Now I’m genuinely interested in it, and I’ve developed a passion for regional stories. The local voices are often the most important.”
Backing yourself
Serena’s path to the scholarship reflects her advice to other students.
“I just thought, why not?” she said. “If you don’t ask, you won’t receive.”
Her message to aspiring journalists is simple.
“Go for it. The field is broad, the skills are transferable, and every day is different.”
Looking outward
After that, she hopes to travel and then enter the journalism field, wherever that may lead.
Students aspiring to build a career in journalism or broadcasting can learn more and apply for the WIN Broadcast Scholarship on the University’s scholarships website.