QNews, a Brisbane-based LGBTQIA+ publication, has ceased to print physical copies of its magazine. Since its launch in 2000 it has maintained print publication, but is now shifting to digital media.
Richard Bakker, QNews publisher, said that “While we love the print business, online is where we’re seeing growth and sales. We want to fully embrace that opportunity and focus on our website and social media channels.”
Bakker cited the increased cost of printing and the ease of advertising in digital media as reasons for the transition. “There are enormous costs involved in producing and distributing magazines – and they’re rapidly increasing. By creating a leaner, more economical and flexible product, we’re putting QNews in the best possible shape.”
Bakker himself is stepping back from QNews after seven years in charge of the organisation.
QNews is currently negotiating with an undisclosed party about securing the future of the magazine through collaboration. Bakker commented, “I’m not at liberty to discuss this just yet as the deal isn’t finalised – but it’s a very exciting period for QNews.”
He added that the support from the LGBTQIA+ community was a significant part of why QNews operates, saying “We are so fortunate to be part of this beautiful LGBTQIA+ community. With the recent rise in anti-LGBTQIA+ threats and rhetoric, our community media is more important than ever.”
QNews has been operating in Brisbane since its inception, with three print magazines produced every year covering news, entertainment and lifestyle. Its physical copies were available at over 1,000 locations prior to this announcement, and its readership exceeds 700,000 monthly.
The current issues of QNews will be its last physical copies. It will continue to produce new content from its website, qnews.com.au.
