7NEWS reporter Amelia Brace and cameraman Tim Myers have been recognised with the Walkley Award for Excellence in Journalism.
The award was bestowed upon them for their courageous broadcasting efforts after being assaulted by US riot police live on air while covering a Black Lives Matter protest just a stone’s throw from the White House.
Amelia Brace and Tim Myers were broadcasting live to Seven’s Sunrise on June 1 this year when they were belted with an armoured shield and Brace whacked in the back with a truncheon as police violently cleared Lafayette Square in Washington, D.C. Despite their injuries, the pair went on to broadcast non-stop for some 12 hours across Sunrise, 7NEWS and The Latest.
Brace later addressed a US congressional committee about the incident as part of a broader investigation into the police response to peaceful protesters in D.C. that day to clear the way for the arrival of President Donald Trump for his now infamous photo opportunity outside St John’s Episcopal Church.
Brace said; “This story was never about us. It’s about the people who were peacefully and legally protesting. We’re grateful and humbled that our coverage drew attention to what happened that day.
“It was a confronting moment for America and certainly for us. We hope this serves as a reminder of the important role of the media and the need for us to do our jobs safely.
“Tim and I appreciate the ongoing support of the team at Seven and the recognition of the Walkley Foundation. I, personally, appreciate Tim’s professionalism, camera work and, most of all, friendship through those days and weeks in Washington, and the many years in the US.”
Craig McPherson, Network Director of News and Public Affairs added; “You shouldn’t become the story by simply doing your job but in the chaos the world witnessed there are circumstances you have no control over.
“Amelia and Tim produced fearless and measured reporting across a frantic 24 hours. The award is a tribute to their courage and poise under extreme pressure.”