Jessica Grimble brings to the role a comprehensive understanding of the issues within western Victoria.

She was born and raised in Horsham and has been editor of the Wimmera Mail-Times since March 2017.

Australian Community Media (ACM) Victoria managing editor Andrew Eales said the appointment was recognition of exceptional results Ms Grimble had achieved in growing readership of the Wimmera Mail-Times and increasing engagement with the community. 

"The Ararat Advertiser and Stawell Times-News are leaders in informing and advocating for the communities they serve and the expansion of Jessica's role will ensure these attributes are ingrained across all ACM's titles in western Victoria," Mr Eales said. 

Ms Grimble said it was an honour to lead the three mastheads that championed reporting on issues important to people in the Wimmera.

"We will continue to serve the community through our editorial and sales staff who live, work and are committed to informing, and being advocates for, the people of our region," Ms Grimble said. 

"Our industry is evolving as quickly as the world around us.

“Our team is committed to reporting the news in new and interesting ways, without fear or favour, and we will continue to be the voice for our region into the future." 

Ms Grimble will take on the role from Monday.

Outgoing editor Kim Quinlan is leaving journalism after 35 years in the media industry and will take on a new challenge. 

The Ararat Advertiser is part of Australian Community Media – a division of Fairfax Media – Australia's largest regional media network.