In an age where local news is more vital than ever, the sudden closure of a community voice is a significant loss. The recent folding of the Southern Highlands Express, along with its sister publications, the Wollondilly Express and Goulburn Express, has left a notable void in the New South Wales regional media landscape. While readers were initially told the shutdown was due to the closure of printing facilities, the story runs much deeper. The parent company, Espresso Media, has gone into liquidation, revealing a staggering debt of over $700,000. A significant portion of this, around $425,000, is owed to the Australian Taxation Office. According to the liquidator's report, the company, established in March 2020, was likely insolvent for most of its existence, despite receiving government grants. The report highlights a stark contrast between the company's claimed cash reserves of over $2 million and its actual bank balance of about $1,200. This closure is not just a story of financial mismanagement; it's a reminder of the fragility of local journalism. The loss of these mastheads impacts community connection and the dissemination of local stories. As the dust settles, it serves as a sobering example of the immense pressures facing regional print media today.
