NO HALFWAY: The lessons we learnt from Estelle, the journalist who could

In the obituary for Estelle Ellis, a journalist cherished by her Nelson Mandela Bay colleagues, the writer reflects on the qualities that made Estelle a remarkable woman and a fierce advocate for those often overlooked. Her dedication to uncovering the truth, tirelessly pursuing stories, and never shying away from challenging authority, left an indelible mark on those who worked with her.

The writer remembers Estelle as someone who argued passionately, but always with reason and an unwavering pursuit of the facts. She would return to a story with additional documents and sources, never satisfied with half-hearted reporting. Her persistence was matched by her ability to find humor in even the most challenging situations, such as getting stuck in a hospital lift with a porter and a body, where she refused to take anyone's word on the lift's functionality.

Beyond her professional pursuits, the writer shares the personal side of Estelle - her love for her cat Finn (nicknamed WBC, World's Best Cat), her niece Leah, and nephew Jacques. This affectionate side of Estelle was reflected in her joyful and outspoken nature, where there was no middle ground. Her friends and family knew her to be exacting and stubborn, but these qualities were a testament to her deep belief in the importance of truth and justice.

Though there is no replacement for Estelle, the writer urges us to continue her legacy by asking the same probing questions she would have posed and telling the stories that she fought so hard to bring to light. In doing so, the writer hopes to honor Estelle's memory and ensure that her work continues to inspire and inform.