A scoop about the tragic consequences of a mushroom lunch in regional Victoria has won the prestigious Gold Quill at the Melbourne Press Club’s 29th Quill Awards for Excellence in Victorian Journalism.

John Ferguson’s exclusive story about the Leongatha lunch was first published on The Australian’s website on a Saturday, and he followed it up with other exclusives, including an interview with the now-charged woman who hosted the lunch.

Above: the announcement of the Gold Quill and John's speech (video)

The Gold Quill judges praised Ferguson’s scoop that set the agenda for a story which engaged Australia and the world. “This was journalism which celebrates, and honours, everything the Gold Quill stands for,” the judges said.

Ferguson’s report of the lunch where three people died, won the Scoop of The Year Quill, which along with all other category winners, meant it qualified to be considered for the Gold Quill.

The Quill Awards is the annual celebration of excellence in Victorian journalism.

This year featured a record number of entries across 31 categories, reflecting the breadth, depth and excellence of the state’s journalism during 2023.

See all Quill winners