Sarah Konoski

Kate McClymont's career as an investigative journalist has exposed a litany of wrongdoing from politicians, union officials, property developers, sporting organisations and media personalities.

Kate's stories have initiated many police cases and prison sentences and won her 10 Walkley Awards so far.

Her uncovering of corruption and criminality has also made Kate many enemies who've reacted with a steady stream of abuse over Kate's hygiene and clothing along with serious threats to her life.

But for Kate, that kind of intimidation has only made her even more determined.

Hi, Kate.

As far as I can tell from our interaction, it's absolutely all above board.

I'm glad to hear that.

When you cold call someone about a story, how do you approach that first conversation?

It depends on why I'm calling them.

When you're trying to fish for information, maybe it's someone who's not familiar with you or aware of why you might be calling.

I mean, you're having to bluff as well.

Is that part of your suite of skills, is working out what to reveal that you know, what not to say?

You're a keen bridge player, Kate.

Is there a crossover between the game of bridge and these kind of interactions?

I'd be quite terrified sitting across from you at a Bridge table.

That's what you would say, wouldn't it?

No.

How important is the public?

to the work that you do?

I mean, how regularly are you contacted out of the blue with the tip off?