About Makayla
Journalist
Makayla graduated from Western Sydney University with a Bachelor of Communication (with Distinction). Formerly with the ABC, she is currently the general news and crime reporter for the Western Weekender and Parra News. Her work has appeared in various titles, including ABC News, Blue Mountains Gazette and the Sydney Sentinel, and in 2021 she was nominated for the Student Journalist of the Year Award at the Walkley Foundation’s Mid-Year Celebration of Journalism. Previously, Makayla completed an internship with the media team at Accor Stadium and CommBank Stadium. She also loves covering human interest stories, social issues and sports.
Features
A renovated convent has become a home for Ukrainian refugees in Central West NSW
A community effort to transform an empty convent into a home for Ukrainian refugees has paid off, with two families moving in last weekend.
Arezo Younes: A voice for the voiceless women of Afghanistan
Almost two decades ago, Arezo Younes was granted refugee status in Australia after escaping the Taliban regime with her mother and three brothers. Since then, she has become a prominent voice for Afghan women around the world and hopes to educate others about the challenges that immigrants face.
Sound West music and tech festival kicks off at CommBank Stadium
There is just one day to go before Western Sydney is energised by tech and arts festival Sound West. The weeklong festival will run from 20-28 August and will kick-start live entertainment post-COVID, something that is so important from a cultural and business perspective in Western Sydney.
Australian artists on the frontline in Ukraine
Australian artists George Gittoes and Hellen Rose tell features editor Makayla Muscat about their experience on the frontline in Ukraine, where they are documenting the effects of the ongoing Russian invasion.
Meet the woman representing Australia’s most marginal electorate
The Division of Macquarie in Western Sydney is Australia’s most marginal electorate and will therefore be a key seat at the federal election. Makayla Muscat meets the woman who’s held it since 2016, Susan Templeman MP.
Mardi Gras is ‘Always On’
While the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras is best known for its festival, particularly its parade, the ‘Always On’ initiative ensures it’s engaged with the community year-round.
Life, death and religion explored in Wallworth’s new show
Ahead of her appearance at the Sydney Opera House’s UnWrapped festival, Emmy Award-winning artist and filmmaker Lynette Wallworth tells features editor Makayla Muscat what inspired her new live show.
Step into history at the SCG
Features editor Makayla Muscat takes the guided walking tour of the legendary Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), exploring the hallowed venue’s fascinating history and facilities.
Discovering human power through adversity
Michael Crossland has been defying the odds since the age of 11 months, when he was diagnosed with a rare cancer. Now as one of Australia’s most respected inspirational speakers, he tells Makayla Muscat the keys to his success.
Australia’s vow to support Afghan refugees
Features editor Makayla Muscat investigates how Afghans are settling in Australia following the fall of Kabul.
Remembering the First World War through German-Australian eyes
Over a century since the end of Word War I, features editor Makayla Muscat speaks to historian Dennis Overton about two brothers landing at Anzac Cove under fire.
