THE Elliott Newspaper Group owner of The Guardian Swan Hill announced today that it would print its sister publication Sunraysia Daily in Mildura this Saturday as a Saturday only weekly edition.

Elliott Newspaper Group suspended publication of its papers in Mildura, Swan Hill and Kerang last Tuesday due to the economic effect of the Coronavirus on its viability and stood down all staff.

Elliott Newspaper Group managing director Ross Lanyon said the move wouldn't have been possible without the support of the Mildura staff.

Mr Lanyon said the company had registered for the Federal Government's Job Keeper Stimulus Package, which was announced by Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Monday.

“This has allowed us to negotiate with our staff to return to work on a reduced basis, and fortunately many were willing to provide their time to produce the paper for the community.

"While we have a strong online presence with our revamped websites, we understand people still love their paper and are desperate for it back,” Mr Lanyon said.

Once we have analysed the reaction of Saturday’s Sunraysia Daily with readers and advertisers, we will discuss with our Mid Murray Area Manager Rob Duffield and staff the viability of producing a weekly edition of The Guardian during this pandemic.

Mr Duffield said he had been overwhelmed by the messages of support from Swan Hill region businesses and the community after the recent closure of the tri weekly title.

“There is an overwhelming desire to restore the region’s 132 year old local newspaper.” Mr Duffield said.