MELBOURNE, VIC — 1 June 2026 — Victorian Aboriginal News (VAN) has announced what it believes to be a first for Australia - a third successive generation Aboriginal journalist.

Karina Wells, an Aboriginal woman of Tasmanian descent and daughter of VAN founder Charles Pakana, has joined the company as a trainee journalist, producer and media editor.

The move to employ Karina is a major step forward in ensuring the continuity of VAN as it continues to gain greater presence across the broad network of Victorian community radio stations. "As more radio stations pick up our content, there's a real need to create a foundation of multiple journalists within the company," said Charles Pakana.

Karina, who moved down to Naarm (Melbourne) to take on the role, shared her thoughts on her new position: "It's a huge step forward for me, following in the steps of my father and grandfather, who was the Industrial Correspondent at the Sydney Morning Herald."

Karina can often be heard co-hosting the Victorian Aboriginal News VAN Hour program on 3KND every Wednesday from 10am to 11am, as well as hosting other VAN programs on regional community radio stations and her own interviews for the VAN Talks podcast.

About Victorian Aboriginal News (VAN):

Victorian Aboriginal News is an independent media platform dedicated to amplifying First Nations voices, truth-telling, and driving deep engagement with the Treaty and reconciliation processes across Victoria. Through news coverage and the VAN Talks podcast, VAN provides vital community journalism and informed commentary.