A significant story John covered during his time as a Triple J reporter was the 2002 Easter Riot at the Woomera Detention Centre where detainees broke out of a compound surrounded by protesters angry at the Howard Government's Asylum seeker policy.
Here is an excerpt of how he saw it.
Radio excerpt (mp3): Woomera Riots
The drought has created many environmental disaster stories, but before it really took hold, John investigated a project in the South East of SA where huge drains were being dug to prevent dry land salinity.
The story was so well received one student used it as part of his University thesis.
Radio excerpt (mp3): The Big Drain
In his Triple J career, John sought out many Adelaide bands to record for airplay on the station.
"Gone to Earth" was one such band to ultimately receive significant airplay on Triple J.
Radio excerpt (mp3): Gone To Earth