The media awards were introduced in 1991 to promote and reward excellence in journalism in the Highlands and Islands. They are presented annually at the Press Ball.

The awards recognise the year’s best stories and pictures in categories including news, sport, features, photography and business.

Judges also choose an overall Journalist of the Year and award the prestigious Barron Trophy for lifetime achievement in journalism in the Highlands and Islands.

Principal sponsor of the 2025 awards is Diageo, with key support from Statkraft, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, the National Union of Journalists, Bòrd na Gàidhlig, Hub North Scotland, Highland Tourism CIC, Inverness Chamber of Commerce, DP Digital Media and Kane Partnership.