UpdateDecember 2016 Vol 24, No. 3 Thrice Yearly Newsletter ABC FRIENDS SALUTES FOUR CORNERS

t the Annual Award questions of the medical profession. Presentation for Broadcasting Even in her illness, Liz was still the AExcellence on Friday 25th relentless investigative reporter. November, ABC Friends (National) It is these qualities, along with recognised the extraordinary persistence, patience, integrity, contribution of Four Corners to curiosity, thoroughness, balance and Australian life and investigative compassion, the hallmarks of great journalism of the highest quality journalism, that have undoubtedly over the past 55 years. Throughout been a thorn in the side of politicians those 55 years, Four Corners has of all persuasions, and those in consistently and with commendable positions of power and authority courage shone a light into many who have been under the relentless dark places in our national life, and microscope of a Four Corners has, without any doubt, investigation. Very recent examples changed Australia for the come to mind: “Broken Homes” better. The final program examined our totally inadequate and for 2016, A Sense of misnamed Child Protection System; Self, was no exception. and her persistent search for the “The Forgotten Children” painfully Liz Jackson, multi-award best medical options with her documented the evaporation of hope winning journalist with Four partner Martin Butler, displaying amongst refugee children under Corners for 30 years, laid exceptional courage, honesty and detention on Nauru; “Australia’s bare her private and family professionalism. In so doing, she Shame”, in graphic detail, showed life in documenting her struggle with taught us all how to be better patients, the onset of Parkinson’s Disease better carers, and to ask the right Continued on Page 4.

From the Editor 1 How’s the ABC Boss doing Gutting a cultural treasure 13 now the honeymoon’s over? 8 Quentin McDermott 5 Hands off Radio National Inside Red Letter Day for the ABC 9 Music 15 Friends goes national 5 Media Releases 10 State News 16 Update Explanation demanded for Radio National cuts 6 From the National President 11 NSW Branch News 19 Report from National Save RN Music Rally 12 ABC Radio’s deliberate Campaign Director 7 step to the right 22 Update From the Editor Publication Information (and NSW President) Update is published three times a year by ABC Friends National Inc. GPO Box 4065 Melbourne Vic 3001 s 2016 draws to a close, we another part of the ABC, and offer classical look back upon a momentous music on a much cheaper digital stream, Print Post approved: PP245059/00002. year for ABC Friends, and for presumably so that we can all listen to Extracts from newspapers and other A the ABC. Friends celebrated 40 years the Ring Cycle on our mobile phones! publications appearing in Update do not necessarily reflect the views of the since its founding by Walter Bass, ran an Management should also be made aware members of ABC Friends. extremely effective campaign to ensure that vast areas of Australia have an internet Update is distributed to all members of that the ABC was an issue in the Federal service so poor that receiving a strong and ABC Friends as part of the membership Election, especially in marginal seats, and consistent signal is a hopeless pipedream. fee. Update is also supplied to is about to sign off on the establishment As a resident of the Blue Mountains, within journalists, politicians and libraries across Australia. of Friends as a national as well as a sight of Sydney’s Centrepoint Tower, my state-based organisation. The National internet reception is appalling, and unlikely Update is edited and produced in Sydney and contributions are welcome Fighting Fund, launched over a year ago, to improve. from state and regional branches. Email raised from donations over $150,000 – Whilst we must never forget that many of your contribution (in Microsoft Word) sufficient to mount a campaign during the problems besetting the ABC at the to [email protected] or post to the election period which, through address below moment are the direct result of drastic extensive use of social media and the Material may be quoted or reproduced funding cuts at the hands of the Abbott/ huge unpaid contribution of the creative from Update provided the source is Turnbull governments, and these cuts are acknowledged and reproduction is sent team, reached an extraordinarily large ongoing, it is tempting to draw an analogy to the Editor at the above email or postal audience, numbering well into the millions. between Twilight of the Gods, and the address. Max Gillies as Rupert Murdoch produced destruction of the world as they knew it, responses from all over the world. We are Would you like to receive largely because they could not manage indebted especially to Ranald Macdonald Update newsletter change, and the current practices of ABC (National Campaign Director) and Jeff electronically? Management, which seems determined to Waters (National Campaign Co-Ordinator) Save the planet’s trees and ABC Friends’ bring major changes to the ABC without for the success of the campaign, which printing and postage costs and read either consultation or communication Update on your tablet or computer. When did not stop once the election had taken with those most affected, namely the Update is published, you will receive an place, but has continued apace. Friends staff who produce the programs and the email with a link to the latest issue (each now has a strong and effective lobbying audience who receive and enjoy them. It newsletter is a 2-3MB PDF). presence in Canberra, thanks largely brings to painful recollection the disastrous You can try this now by going to to the leadership and influence of our www.fabcnsw.org.au and clicking on handling by management of the hundreds “Newsletter”. If you prefer this delivery National President, Margaret Reynolds. A of redundancies in late 2014 resulting option for future Updates please contact priority for Friends in 2017 will be to keep from the first Abbott budget cuts, and the your local state branch (see back page). reminding Australia that an independent, notorious “hunger games” in which staff well-funded ABC, free of political and were required to justify their retention in Who to write… commercial influence, is essential to our their positions in front of others competing Anyone seeking basic information about national health. for the same job! Scarcely a day passes writing to persons of influence might find it helpful to go to www.fabcnsw.org.au now in the mainstream media without where there are some menu items MANAGEMENT IN CRISIS further reports of rising tensions in the ABC under “Be Active” leading to pages of I write this whilst listening, on ABC Classic between management and those who information: Who can I write to? What produce the programs. These tensions are can I say? FM, to the broadcast from Melbourne of Opera Australia’s outstanding production heightened by reports of the addition of further expensive layers of management at Update Editor - Mal Hewitt of Gotterdammerung (Twilight of the the same time as sacking program makers PO Box 1391 North Sydney 2059 Gods), the fourth in Wagner’s mighty [email protected] Ring Cycle, all brought magnificently to and creative people. listeners all across Australia, and around Assistant Editor - Chris. Cartledge the world, by the musically knowledgeable CATALYST [email protected] Classic FM team, with clarity and depth In relation to Catalyst, there has been Cartoonist - Phil Somerville on a clean and vivid FM signal. I wonder no attempt on the part of managers to Editorial Cartoonist for as I listen how much longer the ABC will justify the axing of a program which was The Sun-Herald (Sydney) offer this service, at this quality, to all popular, occasionally controversial, but [email protected] Australians, even though it is clearly part successfully communicated science to Layout Artist - Paul Martens of the ABC’s charter. Rumours continue a wide audience in a popular format. [email protected] of management plans to take the FM One would think that the ABC was doing band from ABC Classic and give it to exactly, according to the charter, what it

Page 2 is supposed to do. Robyn Williams, RADIO NATIONAL ABC FRIENDS WILL NOT GIVE highly respected veteran of 40 years It has been difficult to avoid the conclusion UP THE FIGHT of science broadcasting, put it well in recent years that ABC management has ABC Friends exists because we believe – “This week up to 17 Catalyst staff a problem with intelligent radio, given the that Australia will be a better, kinder and will leave the building, one of the disproportionate cuts suffered by RN in happier place for all its citizens as long top teams in the world dedicated comparison with other ABC platforms, and as it has a strong, independent, fearless to science communication, with not the loss of searching programs of depth public broadcaster, free of commercial a farewell, a handshake or a stale and intellectual rigour – Bush Telegraph, and political influence. That is why our biscuit – like felons out onto the street. Hindsight, Encounter, Poetica, First Bite, thousands of members, along with our This effectively halves the numbers of By Design, 360 Documentaries, Into leadership at a local, state and national science journalists working in Australia.” the Music went 2 years ago. Now we level, give so generously of their time, (No doubt to the delight of the are to lose The Inside Sleeve, The Daily their expertise and their energy in climate change deniers in the Turnbull Planet, The Rhythm Divine and The Live defence of our public broadcaster. We government!) “The bosses of ABC TV Set, to the outrage and bewilderment are also aware that the ABC in 2016, responsible for this travesty are morally of the Music Industry. You may read in whilst a much more diverse and complex and spiritually bankrupt.” It also repeats this Update the eloquent arguments of organization in its methods of delivery, is a very bad ABC habit of showing the both Professor Siobahn McHugh and operating on a budget which, in relative door to those with the knowledge, the the Australian Music Industry why we terms, is smaller than at any time in the wisdom, the experience, the culture cannot allow Radio National to be gutted last 50 years, and has lost 500 staff as – Quentin Dempster, Jim Middleton, further, with intellectual depth and rigour a result of funding cuts by the Abbott/ Sean Dorney, Sandy McCutcheon, replaced by mindless and populist (but Turnbull government. We will continue to all great journalists and broadcasters cheap to produce) “flow programming,” as fight for adequate funding, but urge ABC come to mind, terminated when they heard in the 6pm RN slot on weekdays. management that, in their increasingly still had much to offer. To quote recently Management should read the ABC’s desperate search for new and different departed board member Professor Annual Report: “ABC RN continued audiences for its various platforms, it Fiona Stanley, “The people who know to dominate the Australian podcast does not abandon or ignore its current, most about content and the audience landscape with 71.3 million downloads or loyal audiences who care with great they serve are not being sufficiently streams in 2015-16. RN produced 12 of passion about “Their ABC,” and have a consulted. The ABC has a fabulous, the ABC’s top 20 podcasts in 2015-16” voice which deserves to be heard. passionate, intelligent, wonderful staff – twice as many as all of ABC local radio. with deep knowledge in their fields. Do not deny RN the resources to keep Mal Hewitt Engage more with them.” Amen to that! doing it. President, NSW and ACT Friends.

2016 WALKLEY AWARDS RECOGNIZE FOUR CORNERS EXCELLENCE

Weekly Current Affairs Award to:

“State of Fear” – Linton Besser, Louie Eroglu, Jaya Balendra, Elise Worthington

Investigative Journalism Award to: “Money for Nothing” – Adele Ferguson, Klaus Toft, Mario Christodoulou

Interview Award to: “Jackson and Lawler” – Caro Meldrum-Hanna

Page 3 ABC FRIENDS SALUTES FOUR CORNERS Continued from Page 1.

the torture of Aboriginal children in the NT prison system; “Insult to Injury” looked at the problem of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in our police force; “Making a Killing” in 2015 came very close to closing down the greyhound industry in NSW. We could fill many columns with Four Corners programs which have resulted in government or industry inquiries, even Royal Commissions, the outcomes of which have improved the lives of Above: Quentin McDermott, Margaret Reynolds, Mal Hewitt. Below: Angela Williamson Australians, especially the powerless and leads the singing. the defenceless. the Fitzgerald Inquiry in Queensland, Nobody could have imagined, when resulting in the gaoling of a Police the first Four Corners went to air on Commissioner, and the eventual demise 19th August, 1961, that it would still of the Bjelke-Peterson government. be breaking new ground in journalism Four Corners also achieved what the 55 years later. Produced by Robert New Zealand police could not – finding Raymond, presented by Michael Charlton, proof that the French Secret Service with a theme written by Rick Turk (and sank the Rainbow Warrior in Auckland Tchaikovsky!), the early programs set Harbour. Similar successes through a standard which has been maintained the 90’s and into the new century have included exposing the lobbying power of the Fossil Fuel Industry, showing the appalling conditions suffered by live cattle exported to Indonesia, unmasking the so-called “Church” of Scientology, and detailing the involvement of criminal networks in organised sport. Clearly, the commitment of many Four Corners journalists over the past 55 years to the exposure of wrongdoing and corruption has made Australia a fairer, a safer and a more just society. ABC Friends is proud to recognise the achievements of all who have contributed to the success of a truly remarkable program. with pride and professionalism. The roll Above: The crowd at Presentation Night. Below: Mal helps out with his violin. call of presenters is impressive – Michael Charlton, Mike Willesee, Caroline Jones, Andrew Olle, Liz Jackson, Kerry O’Brien, Sarah Ferguson. Much credit must go to Four Corners of the 60’s and 70’s for bringing to our attention the health and living conditions of the original Australians in urban, rural and remote areas, and for reporting truthfully on the role of Australian troops in America’s war on the Vietnamese people. In the 1980s, Four Corners programs resulted in the Street Royal Commission in NSW which sent Murray Farquhar to prison, and the great Chris Masters’ “Moonlight State” which prompted

Page 4 AWARD RECIPIENT his is a real Quentin were kept secret. honour, and not But now of course, Tjust for me and, McDermott the media landscape but also for the entire is changing; it’s team at Four Corners, changing rapidly, and and all those teams the challenge for all who have come before of us at the ABC – us. and certainly at Four It’s an enormous Corners – is not just, privilege to work at to retain our regular Four Corners, but core audience of also of course, a real viewers, but also to FRIENDS responsibility which reach out to new and everyone who works younger audiences on the program takes who don’t sit down GOES extremely seriously. on a Monday night Speaking personally, at 8.30 to watch NATIONAL I have never worked television, and some with a more committed of whom indeed, here are ABC Friends or Friends of team of journalists, no longer watch the ABC associations in each state film-makers and television at all. T and until recently have operated quite production staff than That’s the challenge, independently. There was always talk of the Four Corners and the trick will be a national coming together but for one team, and that passion to move forward reason or another it never eventuated. and that commitment and attract new In June 2015 the Presidents from each deserves to be properly audiences, without losing or state met in Adelaide to develop a supported by the ABC, in order to alienating our faithful core of national campaign for the forthcoming provide the program with the tools viewers. it needs to continue our work and federal elections. The National Campaign to broadcast the investigations we At our end-of year Four Corners Committee was formed and drove a highly carry out to the widest possible meeting this week, we talked successful campaign leading up to the 2 audiences around Australia. about the future of long form July 2016 elections. journalism. Jonathan Holmes During the campaign the advantage of It may sound like a glib statement, and Peter Manning – two of our working together, sharing resources etc., but now, more than ever, I believe, most celebrated former Executive became even more obvious and so a the world – and not just Australia Producers – came to talk to us National Steering Committee was formed – needs Four Corners. In the about Four Corners’ role as an to set up a national umbrella organisation wake of what happened during abiding institution, and I know that for ABC Friends. Bobbie Mackley (WA), the American election, and the lies all of you as Friends of the ABC, Margaret Reynolds & Kate Durkin (Tas), that were propagated, the world and friends of Four Corners, will Sue Pinnock (SA/NT), Peter Monie (Vic) needs programs that dig out the want to see the program go from and Chris. Cartledge (NSW/ACT) have truth and publish it. The world strength to strength and be given developed the necessary documentation needs journalism that sticks to the tools it needs to continue to for incorporation as ABC Friends National the facts, and gets its facts right do the job it does so well. – as we strive to do. It needs the Inc. It will become a reality by mid courageous journalism of reporters This award isn’t just a real honour December 2016. for all of us at Four Corners; it like Liz Jackson and Sarah The States will continue to operate as they also expresses the strong bond Ferguson. do now, managing membership, finances that exists between program and local campaigns/events but will no We are Australia’s longest-running makers at the ABC and the longer stand alone. Already standard long-form investigative current Friends of the ABC. affairs program. We started 55 membership categories and fees have years ago, in 1961, and we’re And I have a feeling that we as been agreed, a national website developed still here for a reason; we’re here program makers will be looking (abcfriends.org.au) and the Friends social because, week in, week out, we to you for support and hoping media (Facebook) significantly enhanced. to hear your voice in the coming produce programs that hold those We are grateful to the National Steering months and in the next few years, in power to account, that serve our Committee for many hours of work to as changes inevitably come communities, and that highlight enable ABC Friends National to about. So thank you all very and expose truths about our become a reality. (Ed.) society that others would prefer much indeed.

Page 5 ABC BOARD DEMANDS DIRECTOR OF RADIO EXPLAIN RADIO NATIONAL CUTS

Amanda Meade collected 16,000 signatures including many the Guardian prominent musicians opposed to the cuts. 7 December 2016 In the letter the group told the board it had a responsibility to uphold the ABC charter, which calls for the “innovative and The ABC board has asked the director comprehensive broadcasting services of of radio, Michael Mason, to explain the a high standard” as well as “programs rationale behind the cuts to Radio National that contribute to a sense of national at a monthly, two-day board meeting in identity and inform and entertain, Sydney on Wednesday and Thursday. establishment in his new role as chairman and reflect the cultural diversity of of the ABC’s arts reference panel. Guardian Australia understands the the Australian community”. managing director of the ABC, Michelle In March the board established the “We have received thousands of letters, Guthrie, did not brief board members panel – which includes Sydney festival emails and comments from some of before the announcement last month of director Wesley Enoch, Melbourne Theatre the most influential people in Australia’s severe cuts to documentary and music Company executive director Virginia music industry, numerous festivals, events programs. Lovett, Museum of Contemporary Art organisers and from the listening public,” director Elizabeth McGregor, Queensland The board’s discontent over Radio the letter said. National cuts comes as Guthrie seeks their Ballet’s director Li Cunxin, Opera Australia “We ask the question, ‘Has this change approval for a restructure of the ABC that chief executive Lyndon Terracini, National been managed effectively or explained would see some directors in her executive Gallery of Australia director Gerard sufficiently thus far?’ If it’s the case that team demoted and a new, powerful Vaughan and many other luminaries – to Radio National management has made a position of chief content officer added. assess and provide recommendations on the ABC’s arts coverage. value judgment that music is peripheral to Sources say executives at the ABC have the new roadmap, the alternative being But members have privately expressed been kept in the dark as Guthrie worked offered should at least match what is being outrage that the cuts were made without closely with chief of staff Sam Liston lost. on a restructure and then hired outside their knowledge and before a report consultants Jim Rudder, a veteran of into the ABC’s arts Rupert Murdoch’s Sky, and Deb Frances coverage had been to design the new corporate structure. finalised. Liston, who often chairs executive “Putting in Mordant on meetings for Guthrie, has made all the behalf of the ABC board was intended as a signal of executives sign a non-disclosure form to “Suggesting that Double J might serious intent,” one panellist told try to prevent leaks. provide a suitable channel is demonstrably Guardian Australia. “It has led nowhere. incorrect and we challenge management’s The cuts to the $23m Radio National I think these talkfests are meant to quell judgment. budget will fund in part an expensive new the (legitimately) cranky and noisy arts layer of senior management introduced by community and talking is so much easier “We would enthusiastically embrace the Mason in April, including a new head of than a genuine and visible commitment to opportunity to connect the ABC board and spoken content, Judith Whelan, a former arts programming. Someone else refers management to primary stakeholders and editor of the Sydney Morning Herald. to the ABC management as staffed by the major industry representatives before these The board has been “agitated” by the ‘program prevention officers’. I couldn’t changes are cemented.” outcry from staff and the arts community put it better myself.” Programs which have been axed include and has called for a detailed explanation, The board will also receive a letter from half of the Earshot documentary program sources say. a group of concerned RN listeners stream, The Daily Planet, The Inside Sleeve, ABC board member and merchant and musicians who The Live Set, The Rhythm Divine and the banker Simon Mordant has been lobbied formed the Save RN removal of Jazztrack from Radio by dozens of heavy hitters from the arts Music group and have National’s linear schedule.

Page 6 Report from

National Campaign Director, Ranald ABC Friends Macdonald

t is great to see you all here political and public meetings, ability to report from, Asia and its independence AND to at the 40th anniversary of the demonstrations and the the Pacific was cruelly and ensure that it has the financial Iformation of ABC Friends - or many ways we can inform the unreasonably inhibited by the resources to do its job under Aunty’s Nieces and Nephews community about their ABC Abbott Government breaking its Charter responsibilities – as it started off as - at this by and through you. – the the ABC’s 10 year Australia to set the gold standard for important Annual Meeting. foundation and strength of our Network contract just one broadcasting in this country organisation. year in. My role today is to tell you There is NO possible doubt that about our National Campaign We have advanced plans for Let me quote a remarkable, the ABC, its management and - to bring you up to date with a further campaign beginning inspiring humanitarian and its staff are under sustained progress – a clever word play early next year to remind all Nobel Prize winner, who sadly attack - are being “tormented”. Australians of the role the ABC died this year – Elie Wiezel: to enable me to refer to our Think the Murdoch media, plays in just about everyone’s excellent publication UPDATE those of the far right, and those – which is one of the ways lives – whether it be rural, who would gain by a weakened we communicate with our regional or metropolitan, with (and he could As citizens ABC members Nationally. its emergency broadcasting, have been referring to ABC informed, courageous and At the same time we, as We also of course use our Friends – to all of us), independent journalism carried Friends, must keep prodding web site abcfriends.org.au, We must always take by radio and television and and encouraging our ABC to do Facebook, email and snail (and social media through the sides better for all Australians. expensive) mail, advertising, various platforms available to it. interviews and releases through Neutrality helps the Under the leadership of our first the media. Additional to the range of high oppressor National President, the excellent quality ABC news, current Margaret Reynolds, we have This year we have had two Never the victim affairs and documentaries, a vital role – and that is to major lobbying trips to Canberra Silence encourages ensure we have a strengthened, and have put a submission Australian drama and independent and vital ABC, to the Senate about the role entertainment, and educational the tormentor of the ABC and its Charter programming, there is the Never the tormented. serving the interests of all responsibilities – and the need requirement on the ABC for Australians. for enhanced funding. international reporting and It is a challenge, but we are it presenting an authentic Then, of course, there are Each of you has a vital role to all surely up for it? I take your Australian voice to our North. the vital local activities, the play in speaking out to defend support today as representing a street stalls, attendances at The ABC’s presence in, and the ABC, in trying to ensure resounding YES.

Page 7 How’s the ABC Boss doing now that the HONEYMOON’S OVER ? Assoc. Professor Dr. Richard Gates former President, Northern Rivers ABCFriends ??? t’s only a little more than 6 months since the national broadcaster as it seeks to One proven way to solve the new program Michelle Guthrie BA, LLB was made maintain its relevance…”? What does it problem is to do stuff in-house or in IManaging Director of the ABC. mean? combination with partners. But cuts to Already there are serious questions about At face value the line tells us the ABC has budget and poor management decisions her grasp of public broadcasting and somehow ‘lost its relevance’, that is, what have meant the loss of staff and facilities the adequacy of her explanations for her it offers is no longer pertinent or important capable of such production. And then decisions. Some have already concluded to audiences. Change is needed. The there’s the issue of motivation which that she is out of her depth. But more evidence? Well, repeats of repeats of seems to be at an all-time low. than that some critics are asking where repeats of imported programs hardly So here we have a new MD whose job it is is her vision for the future of our national help to keep Auntie relevant but how did to make the ABC ‘relevant’ again but one broadcaster beyond the technologies of the ABC get to that position? Budget hand is tied behind her back before she delivery, monetisation of ABC product, and cuts from the federal government and ever begins. There is no real new money deal-making with commercial enterprises, deliberate outbidding of the ABC for new and the ABC has already been stripped a reprise of her long commercial programs from the BBC at prices far too of important assets essential to in-house experience. expensive for Auntie’s purse guarantees production. But the MD has not helped The on-line blurb about the new MD on repeats. It can’t compete. The big boys herself one iota by overseeing the axing the ABC website is of concern: are out to wipe the ABC off the map. The of iconic programs such as Catalyst with best way to do it is to starve it of new consequent loss of great talent and the Her appointment comes at a pivotal time programs. draw card of decent science reporting, a for the national broadcaster as it seeks to sure guarantee that Auntie will continue maintain its relevance and deliver great to lose its relevance. Sure, Catalyst Australian content in a fast-changing, has had its problems with one or two fragmented and increasingly global media shows which could have stood closer market. scrutiny from management before going Great spin. Well, yes there’s no doubt to air, but whose fault is that? Both baby that the media world is in a state of flux, ... would it be and bathwater have been well and truly some might say ‘disruptive’ as new means possible to get chucked out. of delivery gain traction or fail like all Perhaps “maintain its relevance” was a experiments about new things during the to real problems reference to the way in which the ABC ‘bleeding edge’ period of experimentation. anyway if there delivers its products and not the quality And there’s no doubt there’s one almighty or relevance of the product itself. The punch-up for market place supremacy to is a ‘climate of medium is the message. The quality of the see who’s going to be the last one (or two) fear’ operating? message itself is relatively unimportant! standing for control of that media market So perhaps the new MD was hired to with the outcome not necessarily in the bring her commercial experience in ‘the best interests of the community… the new digital media landscape’ to bear on market place doesn’t always get it right! how the ABC delivers its message with the But who wrote the words: “Her actual quality or relevance of the message appointment comes at a pivotal time for of minimal importance. If you package the Page 8 ? product well on various new social media will never know how well she listened and one time you could depend on the ABC ‘platforms’ (important buzz word) it will sell through what kind of experiential lens she Charter to guide what might be expected even if it’s crap! digested what staff were telling her. An of the MD but not now in the ‘post-truth’ Is there any evidence that the MD has apparent preparedness to listen is a good environment in which we live. helped Auntie maintain its relevance? Well, management strategy but passive listening It is time for the contracts of all senior nothing that’s obvious. Promises of things also has its weaknesses and may not management to be made public including to come such as 17 hours of independent necessarily help to get to the real issue the MD’s so that we can understand science production programs next year are or truth of the matter. But would it be what’s really happening at the ABC and on the record as a response to the axing possible to get to real problems anyway if make sure that not only is the MD meeting of Catalyst but we have yet to see that there is a ‘climate of fear’ operating? the requirements of the ABC Charter but happen. The critics are already describing Who is going to stick their neck out when that the Board is acting independently and the 17 hours as an impossible task for high there’s a mortgage to pay, mouths to feed, in the public interest. quality but perhaps they’ll be proved wrong to tell the big boss what’s really happening! And the report card on the MD: Could and the MD will have the required ‘loaves What is the MD’s employment contract do better but may be a big ask given the and fishes’ kit to do the job. with the ABC? What are the terms apparent lack of a public broadcasting The new MD commenced an extensive and conditions and what performance background and unpublic criteria for ‘listening tour’ when she first came to the indicators will be used by the now less- performance review. And a lot of us aren’t job and was applauded for her capacity to than-independent ABC Board to determine happy about the gutting of RN and Classic shut up and not do all the talking. But we whether she’s doing her job or not. At FM….that must count for something!

Red Letter Day for the ABC and for the campaigning ABC Friends

Friends are obviously NOT happy with which passed the Senate – and we Ranald Macdonald decision being made by management agree with every word of it, though National Campaign over RN programming, Catalyst and wish she had mentioned the breaking Director other announcements and programming of the Australia network contract with determinations from ABC leadership the impact that has had: Just when it seemed that defence of which seem to indicate a combination the ABC and what it stands for was of dumbing down and reacting to the being overwhelmed by the venom pressures for the and sheer weight of those seeking Government and to weaken or destroy our national right-wing critics. broadcaster, some good news. 24 November 2016 Never forget, though, We WON a battle. the continuing severe NOTICE OF MOTION I give notice that on the next day of sitting I shall move that - On November 29, Greens Senator funding cuts and the The Senate: Sarah Hanson-Young moved a problems that new CEO Michelle Guthrie is a) Opposes recent cuts to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation resolution taking on the ABC critics that have resulted in: and triumphed 35 votes to 30. having to deal with. (i) The loss of almost 5OO Australian jobs; I am not saying the passing of her So, we remain committed (ii)  The closure of all 5O ABC retail outlets around Australia; resolution, which I will outline in a to your/our ABC playing (iii) A substantial reduction in Australian made children’s content; moment, means that we have won a vital and pivotal role in (iv) A substantive reduction in local regional content; and informing, entertaining, or are winning the contest for the (v) A reduction in government funding totalling 29.2% over 30 ‘hearts and minds’ of Australia, or of protecting and stimulating years. Canberra. But it was a welcome sign Australians with its range b) Opposes the severe cuts to the Australian Broadcasting that many, many Australians value the of offerings on its may Corporation outlined in the 2016 Budget Paper totalling almost $5O million over the forward estimates. ABC. platforms. c) Supports the ongoing strengthening of the Australian Our lobbying, our online and press We remain committed to Broadcasting Corporation as a bold, vital and well-funded release promotion of what has the ABC being independent national broadcaster with strong local and regional content for all Australians. happened to the ABC over funding of political influence, being cuts, us trying to combat attempts properly funded – and in it Senator Sarah Hanson-Young Australian Greens to influence ABC management by setting the gold standard for politicians and the constant ‘hate’ quality and range of program campaign by the unthinking Right, just offerings for all Australians. might be paying off. This is the Notice of Motion,

Page 9 Media Releases

ABC FRIENDS MEDIA RELEASE GREENS MEDIA RELEASE Tuesday, 29 November 2016 Tuesday, 29 November 2016 Stop using the ABC and SBS ABC independence traded as political pawns for ABCC vote National body rejects minister using public The Australian Greens have announced that they broadcasting in senate negotiations. will vote against the government’s plans to allow the Communications Minister to make written directions “It is unconscionable for the Minister for to the board of the ABC, which it is reportedly doing Communications, Senator Mitch Fifield, to use the ABC as part of a deal with Senator Leyonhjelm for his vote and SBS as pawns in negotiating political outcomes on the ABCC Bill. in the Senate,” said ABC Friends National President Margaret Reynolds, in Hobart today. “The independence of the ABC is essential and should not be put at risk like this,” the Greens’ acting “Initially, I thought the suggestion from Senator communications spokesperson, Senator Sarah Leyonhjelm that linked legislative changes to the Hanson-Young said. operations of Australian public broadcasting to his support for totally unrelated industrial legislation marked “Malcolm Turnbull thinks he can use the ABC as his the beginning of the “silly season.” own personal bargaining chip. “But sadly,” the former Senator and government minister “Compromising the independence of the ABC, said, “I was wrong, and the government is so desperate allowing the Minister to dictate to the board, is the to gain support of an extra senator that it has apparently first step down a dangerous road. submitted to this latest demand.” “The government has made it clear that it prefers the “Government pressure and interference on the highly partisan content offered up by certain sectors management and boards jeopardises independent of the private media to the fiercely independent and Australian public broadcasters’ freedom to operate rigorous reporting that comes from the ABC. without political interference - and in, the case of the “It’s clear that ultra-right are obsessed with waging ABC, is in direct conflict to its current Charter.” war on the ABC and will gladly use our national “The ABC already has many problems as its broadcaster as a cultural punching bag. management deals with severe funding cuts imposed by “Malcolm Turnbull is trading away the independence the Coalition Government in recent years,” Ms. Reynolds of the ABC, in the hope of passing the former said. Prime Minister’s most malicious attack on Australian “Minister Fifield would be better engaged in tackling workers. Tony Abbott wouldn’t be able to believe his some of the real challenges that face public broadcasting luck.” in a complex media environment.” Media Contact: Noah Schultz-Byard 0427 604 760 “Our fear,” Ms. Reynolds said, “is that political and OFFICE OF SENATOR SARAH HANSON-YOUNG some competing media pressure is influencing ABC management’s decision-making, with the result that programs are being aimed at attracting bigger audiences, with resultant loss of quality.” “The ABC is Australia’s second most trusted public institution, so as it approaches its 85th year it must continue to set a gold standard for ethical, independent and quality broadcasting, whatever the platforms it uses.” Margaret Reynolds ABC Friends National President

Page 10 From the National President

his year has been one of We know that Managing Director Michelle considerable activity for ABC Guthrie aims to greatly increase Australian T Friends as we have worked around content on ABC TV, but as we approach the country to strengthen Australian public the holiday season many Australians will broadcasting. During 2016 we have be turning off the numerous BBC repeats been proactive in the Federal Election that still dominate our screens. Is it too Many thousands Campaign and followed up briefing new much to anticipate a 2017 season that parliamentarians in Canberra. We know showcases Australian content? of Australians have the ABC has some very strong support We understand the pressures of limited recorded their anger in the parliament but there are also those funding and the demands of a rapidly about the way recent who are critical of public broadcasting. changing media environment. Our Independent Member for Denison, message will continue to focus on the changes have been Andrew Wilkie has been attracting many responsibility of government to adequately cross-party members and senators for a fund the public broadcaster. However, we made in the isolated Parliamentary Friends of the ABC Group. will also continue to question the way in realms of the Sydney In the final parliamentary sitting week, which the ABC manages its responsibilities Greens Senator Hanson Young was throughout Australia. ABC headquarters. successful in having the Senate record its opposition to major funding cuts to the The recent unseemly trading between ABC with a vote of 35/30. Senator Leyonhjelm and the Minister for Communications Senator Mitch Fifield Throughout 2016 our consistent message to secure an extra vote for unrelated has been to highlight the very serious legislation demonstrates the misuse of the consequences of major Federal Budget public broadcaster for political advantage. Compromise and negotiation are essential cutbacks which has led to unpopular Such grandstanding reflects poorly on skills for any organisation undergoing changes within several areas in the ABC. elected representatives who should work change yet to date it appears that neither Recent ABC decision making has within existing legislation and respect the the ABC Board nor Senior Management alienated music lovers, scientists, Radio ABC’s Charter. are considering their options in working more collaboratively. National listeners, and regular television In 2017 the ABC celebrates its 85th audiences. Surely it is essential that the Anniversary so it will be an opportunity to In the current challenging environment, the ABC be more responsive to these very mark the many achievements of this well ABC must maintain its traditional high level loyal audiences which are invariably those respected public institution. However, it of regard and explain why certain changes most perplexed by recent decisions. will also be an opportunity for the ABC are being made. Unfortunately, there are Competing media outlets take every to outline its vision for the future in a too many critics ready to attack the public opportunity to criticise the ABC and media environment that requires change broadcaster so it is vital to retain strong sundry others readily jump on the and adaption. ABC Friends National community support. bandwagon. The ABC is not perfect and believes it must insist that the priority of In 2017 the ABC needs a broad its staff relations policies clearly need the public broadcaster is to respond to its community engagement strategy to urgent attention if some essential change shareholders, the people of Australia. establish just what kind of ABC Australians is to be introduced with due regard to Some recent programming decisions by want in the future. Independence of both staff and audiences. It is of concern executive managers has shown that ABC the ABC is of course fundamental to its to ABC Friends that still hierarchical listeners and viewers will reject decisions Charter, but that must include absolute management structures are failing to which ignore the public. Many thousands transparency in developing and costing effectively collaborate with programme of Australians have recorded their anger new approaches. Australians depend on makers. about the way recent changes have been the national broadcaster so they expect to made in the isolated realms of the Sydney be part of the conversation about plans for ABC headquarters. its future. Margaret Reynolds ABC Friends National President

Page 11 The ABC Here we go! Friends 2017 Candelo to Sydney for Radio National! See you Friday for the Busk! Fundraising Melanie Horsnell Calendar

Please help ABC Friends fundraising effort with your order for one or more of these superb Australian made and locally printed 2017 calendars. The calendar includes all Australian significant dates, State school holidays, even moon phases. This is a large format calendar (510mm x 355mm) with ample writing space on each day. Order your calendar now for delivery by Christmas. They make a great gift! $30 including postage within Australia Save RN Music Rally Please order online at: www.abcfriends.org.au/index.php/ Ultimo ABC HQ product/calendar-2017/ 2 December 2016 or telephone Judy at ABC Friends 03 9682 0073.

www.abcfriends.org.au Page 12 CHANGES TO RADIO NATIONAL ARE GUTTING A CULTURAL TREASURE TROVE Siobhan McHugh Senior Lecturer, Journalism, University of Wollongong

The Conversation - 25 Nov 2016

“RN is the home of big thinking, big ideas, and the national conversation,” the statement from ABC management said. It seems odd that, in pursuit of that notion, RN intends to halve the output of its documentary program, Earshot; cease almost all music broadcasting; abort its flagship sound art show, Soundproof, and a short-form storytelling show, PocketDocs; and dispense with the services of respected religious broadcaster John Cleary as well as seven music and features producers. Cleary’s show, Sunday Nights, deals with “religion and ethics, beliefs and values, The value of radio – but only for an hour, as they shape the issues affecting daily features and other compared to Cleary’s life in Australia and around the world”. creative forms is four. Given how much religion has informed long-lasting … and There are positive the geopolitical landscape since 9/11, beneficial in that changes. An Indigenous it is extraordinary that the ABC would complex ideas and Unit will be created, along terminate a presenter who is not only stories can be told in with three junior producer manifestly expert in this sensitive area, imaginative ways that positions. But while hiring but whose ratings are also remarkable. engage listeners. They are young producers could be said Often, they were within a few points of a necessary adjunct to more to bring fresh ideas and approaches, the popular host Tony Delroy, who until topical talk programs, which seasoned staff see it more cynically, as a recently occupied the slot weeknights. lose currency and value very quickly. recruitment of cheap labour. The new schedule continues the gradual RN should not just be a collection of undermining of the specialisation that has programs with talking heads that report A toxic atmosphere been crucial to RN’s output and success. on what’s happening. Public service So toxic is the atmosphere at RN that RN producers are often noted experts or broadcasting has a special mandate to none of the RN employees I spoke to for intellectuals in their field, with the added create radio that is artistic and in itself a this article would be named. At the time virtue of understanding the radio medium. contribution to culture. of writing, a meeting of some 60 Sydney Their collective output is a cultural treasure But the latest RN makeover is largely staff had passed a unanimous motion trove, which has been increasingly gutted about talk – a cheap format that costs of no confidence in RN management, – from the evisceration of radio drama little to produce. There’s What Keeps complaining of a lack of consultation and the loss of top-notch producers and Me Awake, a talkfest with “high-profile about the changes, an erosion of shows in 2013 to the digital-driven remit Australians” to be hosted by former News producer control over program content, of today. As Robyn Ravlich, an award- Corp boss Kim Williams; Arts Weekly, “a an undermining of specialist content and a winning former RN producer who still snappy conversational podcast about top-heavy management-to-producer ratio. freelances for the network, told me, the the arts”, hosted by Cassie McCullagh. A The changes were announced by Judith best public radio is about much more weekly panel-based show, God Forbid, Whelan, RN’s new Head of Spoken Word than talk: will discuss religious and ethical issues Content – an appointment that senior staff

Page 13 found bizarre, given her lack of experience An international success story whose success RN’s First Run seeks to in audio (she is a former magazine and emulate. Writing of the changes in US Nowhere does the ABC management newspaper journalist and editor). public media outlet Transom.org, Shapiro press release say why there should be a said: Corporate-speak has crept into the “focus on key specialist talk content”, as creative realm, with one manager saying opposed to, say, documentary. The loss of Soundproof and what it at a meeting this week that RN needed stands for – honouring creativity and RN’s expertise in documentaries and to deliver a “return on investment”. This imagination, taking risks, and believing in features is world-beating, as its swag of is a departure from the loftier language the power and importance of art in our prestigious awards, from the Prix Italia to of the ABC Charter, which describes lives – is everyone’s loss. the New York Radio Festival, shows. This “programs that contribute to a sense of decades-old tradition has been continually Earlier this week, Fairfax Media caused national identity and inform and entertain, eroded, with the earlier axing of lauded a kerfuffle by reporting that RN was and reflect the cultural diversity of, the shows such as Radio Eye, The Listening expected to “cease to exist as an on-air Australian community”. Room, The Night Air, 360 Documentaries transmission by the year 2020”. The story Recent ABC audience research and Hindsight, RN’s history showcase. was quickly pulled. Soon after, the ABC into podcasts delineates listener issued a firm repudiation. It said in part: Yet outside Australia, the perception of demographics by age. Says one RN RN’s features’ success is very different. There are categorically no plans to end staffer: “That may work for selling shoes linear broadcasting on RN. We expect but it does not apply to purveying it to be a full linear service well beyond knowledge.” The push, the staffer says, is 2020. for content that is “young, sexy, funny or foodie”. Whelan emailed RN staff “to put to bed once and for all the false idea that RN is Much of the tension at RN derives Some experienced slated for a digital-only future”. The idea from a division between the digital-first RN hands see the of a podcast-only RN disturbs many as operations of the network (which make it would mean less equitable access to podcasts such as the First Run series latest changes its valuable content for those Australians and ran a popular OzPod conference in as being about without adequate internet or phone September) and the longstanding “linear” support. RN producers, presenters and sound something quite engineering staff. There are other reasons why maintaining sinister – the eventual RN as an actual radio network is vital. The latter resent being portrayed as dismantling of RN. The serendipity of hearing something “fuddy-duddy, leftie conservatives, you didn’t expect to come across, which resistant to technical change”, as one put happens when you switch on a radio but it, given that, since the days of the crystal is less likely in a self-curated podcast set, radio has never been static – and RN ecology, is crucial if we are to counter the has often been ahead of the curve. echo chambers that arguably contributed While podcasting has enjoyed a much- to the rise of demagogues such as vaunted boom since 2014, UK media Donald Trump. scholar Kate Lacey has pointed out Some experienced RN hands see the that “radio invented liveness, mass latest changes as being about something communication, participatory media and quite sinister – the eventual dismantling of mobility”. But what’s old is new, and if RN. “Digital is only a smokescreen,” one podcasting can help RN grow the “30+ told me. digitally-savvy audiences” that, according to a recent memo, “the ABC is seeking to Former BBC producer and Prix Italia Others see the promotion of conservative capture” (and garner the desired one in winner Alan Hall, who now runs an figures such as Kim Williams and Tom every two Australian listeners), it needs to independent UK audio production Switzer (who has links to the right-wing be harnessed to the hilt. company, says of the changes: IPA think-tank) as ominous signs of a political agenda. As part of the changes, there will be It appears bizarre deliberately to diminish new podcast-first offerings: The Edge, the ABC’s distinctiveness and quality – in It has been rumoured for years that key a science and health-themed show the loss of PocketDocs, Soundproof and shows Breakfast, Drive and investigative hosted by polymath broadcaster Natasha much more – at a time when the global program Background Briefing might be Mitchell; This is About – about “the nature of the audio landscape has seen transferred out of RN to the jurisdiction of beautiful, awkward and dismal stuff that a great movement of listeners … beyond News. actually happens to people” – and The national borders. The best Australian radio If that were to happen – and with Real Thing, a show about “real Australia”. production speaks across the world. production expertise asset-stripped, Meanwhile, an internal “RN Production Prominent American audio figure Julie music performance culled and so many House” will create audio-rich packages to Shapiro founded Soundproof in 2014 and features and specialist programs gone mark significant events, embed content is now executive producer of Radiotopia, or scattered incoherently in a podcast- across the network and produce short- an independent podcast network in the first sphere – the undermining of the “big form and history-based work as podcasts. US, which makes the kind of podcasts thinking” RN would be well on the way.

Page 14 HANDS OFF RADIO NATIONAL MUSIC

The letter below accompanied the Change.org petition, which has been sent to ABC Management with over 17,000 signatures. It explains why the RN Music programs are ABC CHARTER: vital to the music industry. The announced decommissioning of arts and We, the undersigned, request that ABC Radio National music shows on RN is in direct contradiction to the reverse their decision to discontinue the following ABC’s own Charter, in particular, the following statement programs (The Inside Sleeve, The Daily Planet, The Live that the ABC work “…to encourage and promote Set & The Rhythm Divine) in 2017. These programs the musical, dramatic and other performing arts in represent Australian diversity and identity and are integral Australia”. to our artistic culture. OUR COMMUNITY: OUR MUSIC INDUSTRY: We know RN listeners well. There exists a significant This decision ignores the complexities and depth of our demographic of music fans outside the RN ‘youth’ Australian music industry. It delivers a significant blow to market who depend on RN to deliver content relevant to Australian independent musicians, independent music them and their musical interests. How do we know? We events, festivals and all industry partnerships who rely on talk to our audiences regularly via email, social media these shows to promote their music, gain exposure and and when we meet them face-to-face on tour. bring alternative genres of music to the Australian public. As musicians, they come across our music on the The Inside Sleeve, The Daily Planet, The Rhythm Divine radio, make contact, come and see our gigs and buy & The Live Set each play a vital role in generating jobs our albums. The same audience attends our venues and revenue; for artists themselves, venues, touring and and festivals, which creates substantial revenue for the booking agents, independent record labels, recording entertainment sector. studios, promoters, independent media and also Audiences often comment that RN is their main source international industry partners. of keeping in touch with Australian and independent Studies have been conducted over the past few years in music. Many regional listeners also comment that RN relation to mental health and gender equality in the wider music shows provide a lifeline; particularly in difficult music industry. Research suggests that both areas are times, diffusing the effects of isolation and in combating in dire need of support which, we believe, should be a mental health issues, which we know plague our priority for Radio National as our public broadcaster and regional communities. national information provider. Radio National has long been regarded by musicians, Without the support of ABC Radio National, our industry music industry and music lovers across the country as will suffer enormously; financially, socially and culturally. one of our most important vehicles and leading services for the promotion and nurture of Australian cultural and Radio National music shows deliver content rarely artistic practice outside the mainstream. featured or supported by Double J and JJJ and while these are fabulous Australian institutions, they do not fully HANDS OFF ABC RN MUSIC! represent the broad diversity of quality Australian music. IT’S OUR ABC.

Page 15 broadcasting at the ABC, and referred to the ABC being “in a state of disarray”, with “real fear in the corridors” at the national State News broadcaster. Terry Laidler inspired us with a review of our 40 Year history and a call to arms which was both energising and to these challenges while maintaining vital uplifting. national services. Tasmania As 2017 approaches, the attacks on, and Another busy year for Tasmania with an Margaret Reynolds from within, the ABC keep coming on an increase in membership and activity in President almost daily basis. The struggle ahead is the community. undoubtedly going to be tough, but if we need a reminder of what is at stake we Our market stalls in Launceston and need only note Don Watson’s Q&A words Hobart have been a great success in Victoria on the prospective Trump presidency: … attracting public attention about the Since the federal election in July, ABC when considering the likelihood of a similar issues affecting the ABC. Friends Victoria have reviewed our election performance and concluded that phenomenon occurring in Australia and At one Sunday market I had difficulty an investment in targeted local groups, locating ABC Friends. Certainly, there with knowledge of the people and issues were several crowded stalls but I in specific areas, is required. This will be assumed people were queuing for coffee part of our approach in 2017. or a tasty breakfast. But then I saw our logo and a sign urging people sign a Since recently taking over as President petition against ABC funding cutbacks. It from Graeme Connelly, I am all the more was ABC Friends attracting the crowd! conscious of the contribution Graeme has made. He has led our increasingly active During the Federal Election Campaign, Committee over the past 18 months – a we held two successful candidates’ period of considerable change requiring a forums and gained the support of a subtle and consultative approach. Thank number of existing and new members you so much, Graeme, and for continuing and senators. as Immediate Past President on our We were very fortunate to have two Committee. guest speakers from the National Victoria has, in past few months: Campaign team visit Tasmania. • strongly supported the national In September, Jeff Waters spoke at an campaign within the Parliament to brief Executive Meeting in Ross to outline the members on the effects of the 2014 details of ABC Friends National Media and subsequent ABC Funding cuts; Strategy. • started reviewing our organisation and In November, Ranald Mc Donald contributed significantly to the imminent addressed a well-attended Annual incorporation of ABC Friends National Meeting giving an important overview Inc., including staging a National about key challenges affecting public Conference in Melbourne in October. broadcasting in Australia and how ABC Friends must work to maintain and More recently in November we held increase support for the ABC in difficult a picnic in the park for our younger economic and media climate. members with the attendance of the “Bananas in Pyjamas” and a brass band In December members were involved in to entertain them. the major ABC Tasmania annual event raising money for the Christmas Giving And to round out the year we held a Tree. At the same time, we supported combined AGM and a sellout 40th the Australian Music on Radio National Anniversary Dinner where Robyn Williams, Rally which was just one of many protest our national science living treasure, was actions initiated by ABC listeners around joined by legendary broadcaster and the country. previous ABCF President Terry Laidler. As 2016 comes to a close ABC Friend Both the AGM and Dinner were graced by Tasmania recognises that the new the presence and wonderful performance year will bring many new challenges of Mike Brady who performed live the for the public broadcaster in its 85th ABC Friends’ anthem that he wrote for year. We must be proactive in working us “Where Would We Be Without Our Top to bottom: Picnic on 20 Nov; in our community to ensure that public ABC?”. AGM - part of crowd; Mike Brady; broadcasting is protected and that ABC Robyn Williams strongly voiced his Robyn Williams at 40th Anniversary Dinner. Management is better able to respond concerns over the decline in science

Page 16 what are the differences between the two The meeting galvanized our resolve to act an appreciative and interactive audience. societies, Don stated that one of the most nationally in our advocacy of the ABC. An Costa Georgiadis from Gardening Australia important factors protecting us from a umbrella national body is in the process was invited to this Gardeners’ Market and similar phenomenon was quite simply the of being set up with two members from there were lots of selfies taken with him! role that our national broadcaster the ABC each state on the national committee. It His beard is as magnificent as it appears played in influencing our culture for the was good to meet other state executive on TV! better. members in such convivial surroundings Friends of the ABC (SA/NT) held our It just remains for me to thank our and to “put names to faces”. regular stall there, explaining who we Committee for their magnificent Gardeners’ Market. are and what we do. There was terrific contribution to our achievements in 2016. engagement with the public and many Twice a year, during April and October, people signed up to receive membership Peter Monie ABC Adelaide opens its car park to hold details. A great time was had by all. President The Gardeners’ Market. This spring, the gold coin entry was donated to Oz New Constitution. Harvest. In the last two weeks of October we held South Australia / The market is always very well supported special general meetings to deal with Northern Territory by the community. There are all sorts of updating our Constitution, last written in plants for sale, interesting food to eat, 1991. The process of review of the 1991 The new Executive Committee was community groups represented and ABC Constitution commenced over a year ago identified at our Annual General Meeting 891 broadcasts its Saturday morning and was undertaken by a subcommittee in July. As the incoming President I garden show direct from the car park to of the Executive Committee comprising would like to thank members of the Jessica Knight, Dianne Jones, Marni Curtis Executive Committee for their help as I and Sue Pinnock. The aim was to update have transitioned into the role over the language and sequencing of the rules last six months. I am looking forward to within the Constitution, make meaning working with the committee, built up and more explicit and to enable improvement invigorated over the past three years under and modernisation of the operations of the the presidency of Jessica Knight. state branch. The 2016 Constitution was National Conference approved at the second special general In early October, Jessica and I represented meeting, with some amendments, and is South Australia at the National Conference currently being submitted for registration held in the South Melbourne Town Hall with the Department of Business and adjacent to the ABCF (Vic) offices. The Consumer Services. conference programme was interesting End of Year Celebrations. and useful and allowed us to talk about On Sunday 4th of December we are what we had learned through the election holding our End of Year luncheon. This period and to share ideas to implement in Above: Young supporter. is a relaxed and informal event amidst a 2017. Below: Modelling our Tee Shirt range. lovely garden setting at Jane’s Kitchen, Brompton. We are delighted to have as guest speaker Sophie Thomson from ABC’s Gardening Australia. Sophie’s speech will cover how Gardening Australia is put together and how problems are overcome when the presenters are so spread out across Australia. The luncheon is an opportunity to reflect on the year and acknowledge the activity of our Executive Committee and state membership. Momentum has been building in our membership; we have communicated with the membership on a more regular basis during the year and we intend to continue this into 2017. We have plans for a subcommittee to meet in late January to plan social events that we hope members will find stimulating and satisfying. I wish the executive and the membership a very Happy Christmas and Best Wishes for the New Year. Sue Pinnock Friends of the ABC (SA/NT) Page 17 at the ABC turned up, and joined Friends. from the audience; there is no space State News One of those three not only joined Friends, here to fit it all in! but put their hand up for the committee National Friends too! I’m pleased to announce that we have a larger-than-usual complement The new WA committee has held one of 8 on the committee. Three people, meeting following the AGM. As you Western Australia myself, Cathy and Terri, continue from will have read elsewhere in Update, our last year. An extra boost to morale is that umbrella body, ABC Friends National Hello to all WA members, and to Friends the average age of the new committee Inc., is well on the way to being a everywhere. has been considerably reduced by the reality. ABC Friends WA has appointed RN Changes inclusion of someone in their early 20s! me and Cathy Bardon as the WA delegates on the committee of the new The ABC in Perth will be losing another The committee: organisation. experienced program-maker to a President: Bobbie Mackley redundancy as a result of the changes Wishing all Friends a safe and happy at Radio National. The loss of The Daily V-P: Vacant, to be appointed by the new festive season. Planet, produced in and presented from committee Bobbie Mackley ABC Perth by Grammy-award winning Secretary: Cathy Bardon President musician Lucky Oceans, is also likely to Treasurer: Terri Brown result in other ‘collateral damage’ to the ABC’s Perth workforce and the impressive Committee members: Vincent Butler, Sound Library built up over many years of Michael Dowling, Lis Francis, Marie Glover music programming emanating from this and Lizzie Long. state. Our guest speaker at the AGM was ABC Those discerning folk who enjoy listening News producer and presenter Jeremy to many different music styles, not Fernandez. Jeremy presents the NSW necessarily commercial or well-known, will 7pm News bulletin and produces and surely miss The Daily Planet, as I’m sure presents on ABC News24. Jeremy they already miss The Weekend Planet, was in Perth to visit family and very produced and presented in Perth by the generously gave his time to speak to our very knowledgeable Doug Spencer until members. He spoke, without notes, for a couple of years ago. The loss of music a considerable time and in a very natural, programming on the network is also a informative and entertaining style. Briefly, blow to Australian musicians in WA and these are some of the points he made: around the country. Only 10% of under 25s are viewing on a TV; online audiences consume news 2016 Annual General Meeting differently; most online use is via social To matters in-house, and ABC Friends media rather than the ABC websites; WA held its Annual General Meeting on audiences tire quickly of some stories and Saturday 12th November. Due to the the challenge is to find the happy medium Above: ABC News producer and limited availability of our guest and other between popular and necessary; the ABC presenter Jeremy Fernandez with Bobbie Mackley at the AGM. circumstances, we found ourselves loses audiences between the ages of 6 Below: Cathy and Bobbie queue holding the AGM on the day of the ABC’s and 40. Jeremy stayed to take questions outside the ABC. participation in the City of Perth’s Open House event. Turning this into a positive, we looked for a venue which would encourage people to attend both events. We chose a large meeting room at the State Library of WA in the lively Perth Cultural Centre, very central and close to transport, and easy to get to from the ABC. However, not wanting to miss an opportunity to spread our message, several ABC Friends made their presence felt at the ABC in the morning, working the Open House queue with flyers, stickers and badges. We would have liked to have been there all day, but of course had to leave for the AGM. We were pleased to have an encouraging attendance at the meeting, and very pleased that three people from the queue

Page 18 NSW Branch News

Mid North Coast MID NORTH COAST PETITION Mid North Coast branch have been fired TO THE HONOURABLE THE PRIME MINISTER up about the threats to the ABC. We AND THE HONOURABLE MINISTER FOR COMMUNICATIONS have developed a petition suitable for emphasising the importance of the ABC in regional areas. This is a necessary item This petition of residents of the NSW Mid North Coast draws to your for getting action out of the public when attention: we go to the trouble of having a stall at That the Australian Broadcasting Corporation is an important institution as: markets. 1. it plays a vital role in rural and regional communities across Australia with the Unfortunately the November market in Port provision of news and information for and from regional Australia; Macquarie was rained out. We did turn 2. it is often an important lifeline providing critical information during difficult times up, the thunder and lightning had passed (floods, bushfires, etc.) in regional areas; away but the rain was still steady so that and was a washout. We were very unlucky as 3. it provides programs specifically geared to rural & regional communities which rain has been almost unknown here for commercial radio & television stations do not offer, for example: The Country Hour, Bush Telegraph, Countrywide & Landline, to name a few. winter and spring. Ho hum. Anyway we persevered and two people manned a stall at the Laurieton market the next weekend. We therefore ask you: Eighty people signed our petition – hurrah! • to increase funding to our public broadcaster to ensure that it remains fully-funded We hope to have a stall in the Port and Macquarie December market but we’re on • to ensure there is no diminishment of the ABC services available to people in rural the waiting list and may have to keep our & regional Australia. powder dry until the new year.

In other branch news we’re holding Name Address Signature our Christmas picnic on Sunday 4th December. Last year was a great success and, if the weather gods are on our side, it Name Address Signature should be most enjoyable. Drusi Megget

Name Address Signature Blue Mountains The last few months of 2016 have been a Name Address Signature quieter time for the Blue Mountains branch following a hectic period earlier in the year. Monthly meetings continued with the focus on our future directions. The highlight of Name Address Signature this period was a presentation by author and head of ABC News 24, Tony Hill following the AGM. Name Address Signature Tony’s book, ‘Voices from the Air, researched from the ABC’s vast archives, is the account of the ABC’s remarkable Name Address Signature first war correspondents during World War II. Drawing on his book, copies of some of the original recordings, letters, notes and Name Address Signature historical photos, Tony gave us a glimpse of the difficulties both logistically and technically these recording pioneers faced Name Address Signature and overcame. These men shared with our troops the dangers, threats and conditions of front line warfare. Their efforts brought

Page 19 In her role as the NSW Regional Editor NSW Branch News responsible for the output from all ABC regional stations in N.S.W., Theresa was able to provide an interesting presentation for her audience about the Division’s structure and staffing as well as the resources which are being used to bring local news to local audiences. She gave examples of a number of special stories prepared by local journalists about the Hunter region which had been subsequently broadcast to the national audience. The following members were elected to fill positions on the Hunter branch committee for the forthcoming year: Allan Thomas (President), Greg Struck (Treasurer), Margaret Christiansen (Minutes Secretary) Margaret Conners (Publicity Officer). General committee members include: Anne Kirsten, Colin Lawrence, Hank Above and below: Tony Hill presents Voices from the Air at the AGM. Willems, Robert Conners, Jamie Daly and Ralph Seccombe. The committee has subsequently met to start planning activities for the Hunter branch in 2017. Margaret Conners – Publicity Officer, ABC Friends Hunter Branch

Central Coast. We had only one guest speaker in the second half of this year: Andrew West of Radio National’s Religion and Ethics Report; and Late Night Live. Andrew proved a very interesting speaker. the ‘sounds’ of the war to those at home ABC Newcastle and Upper Hunter region Remarkable, some of the attendees for the first time. speak about the future directions for local thought that he might make them either more religious or less religious but he was Our branch has welcomed new President news, radio and online coverage as well no advocate for any religion or ethical Lachlan Garland and we look forward to his as the first year’s experience of the ABC’s view at all. He talked about trends in term. Our thanks to Barry Redshaw for all Regional Division. his work and leadership as President over the past two years. Thanks also to all the committee for their efforts and to members who were able to assist. And finally, to those who have stepped up for committee positions for 2017. Libby Blackburn, Secretary ABC Friends Blue Mountains

Hunter Branch Report A pleasing number of members of the Hunter branch of ABC Friends attended their recent annual general meeting Left: Allan Thomas and Doug Hewit with guest speaker, Theresa Rockley-Hogan to hear our guest speaker, Theresa after her talk. Right: Members of the Hunter Branch of ABC Friends who attended Rockley-Hogan, Chief of Staff for the the branch’s annual general meeting.

Page 20 Above: Klaas Woldring, Andrew West with Central Coast Branch members. Dr Bruce Stevenson. A committee was Below: Avoca Market Friends Stall. appointed for the coming year, including a mix of ‘old hands’ and a few new faces. Whilst they are most welcome, religion in various parts of the world and it a persistent worry for this group is its turned out that in some countries religion failure to attract younger members – a played a greater rather than lesser part in situation faced by many local non-sporting peoples’ lives and politics. Overall people organisations. had become more religious rather than In his annual report Bruce wondered if the less which seems not to be the case in ABC had this year received somewhat Australia. Many said that Andrew was one less antagonistic attention from Federal of the most inspiring speakers we have politicians than had been the case in ever had. previous years. Has the ABC been tamed However, we have found it hard to engage by a corporately trained management ABC guest speakers this year. Several team? Is the new CEO, Michelle Guthrie, were happy to come but we couldn’t find keeping a low public profile whilst she the right dates or times for them. Several gains a good understanding of the others declined possibly because they Christmas luncheon that will be held at the corporation, its many roles and long were concerned about the staff cuts. The Niagara Park Tavern, Washington Avenue, history? If this has been the case the Lunds attended the biennial ABC Friends Niagara Park, very close to the railway tide might now been turning with recent conference in Newcastle and came back station, on Saturday 3rd December. changes in programming, including the with positive first impressions about our possible demise of a number of excellent We were very surprised that the Prime new MD Ms. Michelle Guthrie. music programs on RN. Minister recently referred to the ABC The year was marked by an extensive, well as an “elite”organisation. We see the A possibly related disappointment for the organised protest campaign in which we ABC as a publicly owned organization Armidale branch in 2016 was that it did fully participated in various ways, especially that is concerned with and reports on not manage to secure an ABC presenter at election time. The busiest market stall all Australians in equal and balanced for its annual lecture, despite many no doubt was at the Avoca Beach market. measure, and is available to all. What attempts. This seems to reflect both the We are having real problems replacing he probably meant to say was that it demanding workloads of ABC staff and committee members John and Margaret is generally better informed than the also their timidity about appearing for a Lund. John was the Treasurer of the commercial broadcasters and if that is the ‘lobby group’. Branch until mid-year and Margaret the case he should explain that properly. On a positive note, regular market stalls Newsletter editor, both having done Merry Christmas to all in any case. Hope kept the ABC before the Armidale public, an excellent job for several years. My to see you at the Christmas lunch. as do our Facebook updates. The intention was to seek a replacement as scholarship to be awarded to a media Convenor as well, after having done it for Klaas Woldring, student at the University of New England six years, but thus far I haven’t been able Convenor has been instituted. to find anyone. Ours is one of the largest branches of the ABC Friends, of around Armidale thanks ABC Friends/NSW for 190 members. It would be sad for us, Armidale its continuing good work, its regular the ABC and the Central Coast region The Annual General Meeting of the informative emails, and the excellent if we were unable to continue the way Armidale group of ABC Friends was held Update. we have been growing. Perhaps we find this November in a pleasant bush setting Priscilla Connor new committee members at our annual at the family home of the current president, Secretary.

Page 21 ABC Radio’s deliberate step to the right

Myriam Robin Crikey media reporter

otice anything, well, right wing in the latest round of appointments at NABC Radio? The ABC has embarked on a highly public push for cultural diversity in its staff, including through expanding its indigenous team. But, more quietly, it has also been pushing other types of diversity. Several new ABC radio presenters have come from commercial — and conservative — media. ABC watchers are pondering if the new appointments are part of a deliberate strategy to counter claims of left-wing bias at the public broadcaster. For example, Ali Clarke was appointed to the mornings slot in Adelaide last year. Clarke had been as a sports and parenting columnist with News Corp, and as well as hosting a variety of shows on Adelaide’s commercial radio networks. ABC Perth hired Jane Marwick, also from a commercial radio background. From the need for a “right-wing Phillip Adams”). work and life experience, and political next year, Chris Bath, formerly of Channel But they are high-profile hosts with long beliefs — all factors that inform one’s view Seven, will host statewide Evenings in experience working in more right-wing of the world. We’re looking for diversity in NSW and the ACT. On Radio National, parts of the media. many ways: more women on air, both as Patricia Karvelas, previously of The presenters and as talent, broader cultural ABC radio boss Michael Mason shies Australian, has headed up the drive slot on diversity — again, presenters and talent away from pigeonholing presenters as Radio National since the start of last year. — and in making sure that, particularly on “left” or “right” wing. But he doesn’t Joining her on RN next year will be Tom Local Radio, our presenters can relate to disagree that different life experiences can Switzer — whose resume includes long and engage with the everyday issues that inform how a presenter approaches the stints at The Australian, Spectator Oz and affect busy, working families, from housing job. the Institute of Public Affairs — and Kim affordability and utility costs through to Williams, the controversial former head of “It’s our role to reflect contemporary the availability and cost of education and News Corp. Australia, so we need to be diverse in childcare.” For the most part, these appointments every way,” he told Crikey. “Working towards that diversity could are not culture warriors in the mould of “Everyone brings with them their own on one level be seen as appointing Andrew Bolt (which is all that would satisfy diversity in terms of background — presenters with right-of-centre political some critics of the ABC, who go on about ethnicity, gender, education, previous leanings.” But he’s quick to add that’s not

Page 22 always a helpful way to find new talent. vast majority of us live, work and play, and presenters have often veered more left “Pigeonholing anyone according to their while presenters occasionally add their than right. perceived political affiliations can be own perspective to any given debate, they “When I was running 702, I constantly fraught, and for ABC Radio it’s really no do so within the confines of the ABC’s looked for right-wing women. And I more than just one measure of diversity of editorial policies. With this approach our approached several. And the problem thought and experience,” he said. presenters bring to the conversation a for me was, they were all successful, “What is important, though, is that wealth of real life experience. often in business or other media. They ABC Radio programs reflect the political “In appointing some of the newer ABC earned a whole lot more money than I and ideological spectrum by airing ‘a ‘voices’ — Ali Clarke, Jane Marwick, Chris could pay them, and they didn’t want to diversity of viewpoints’, which our editorial Bath, Kim Williams, Tom Switzer, Patricia work five days a week all but six weeks standards demand.” Karvelas — we’re looking to add to the a year, day in day out on the radio. Critics of the ABC’s alleged ideological depth and breadth of that lived experience, “There were four or five women I really homogeneity have not all been far-right understanding that we are all ultimately wanted to get on the air. I got close, but culture warriors — at least one comes greater than the sum of our parts, I couldn’t get them. People don’t ever from very solid ABC pedigree. In April, regardless of, and not just because of, our think of this part of the equation.” personal views.” former Media Watch host and Four Perhaps with the broader media sector Corners alumn Jonathan Holmes drew Maybe this isn’t all so very radical. in turmoil, some of these people can attention to the ABC Radio hosts in Peter Wall has held many management now look to the ABC as a relative haven the major capitals, who he said could positions in ABC Radio, including 14 of stability. not realistically do compelling radio years managing ABC 702 in Sydney, without letting their personalities — before going on to start his own media “I do think the ABC needs to be far and their political leanings — influence management business. He lauds the more diverse and reflect society more their programs. These hosts, he wrote, current appointments, particularly of Chris than it has in the last 20 years — and “undeniably” leaned more to the left than Bath. But, he told Crikey, in his experience, I do think they’re trying to do it,” Wall right (ABC regional hosts tend to come the ABC has always aimed for many said. across as more non-partisan or even types of diversity. And he points to more But he adds a caveat. “People don’t conservative, Holmes wrote — an opinion practical reasons behind why the ABC’s care that much about whether it’s left or reflected by many others Crikey has right wing — they want good company, spoken to). people they want to have over for ABC managers have largely dismissed dinner. If someone’s banging the table, Holmes’ concerns. But they dovetailed people get annoyed with it.” with thoughts previously expressed by the ABC’s own chairman, James Spigelman, What is important, about the public broadcaster as a whole. though, is that ABC Radio In 2013, the former judge told the National programs reflect the Press Club “the allegations of bias are, political and ideological I believe, more often a function of the spectrum by airing topics chosen for reporting, than of the ‘a diversity of content. Journalists — all of you, not just those at the ABC — tend to have a social viewpoints’ and educational background, perhaps particularly in Canberra, Sydney and Melbourne, that may make them more interested in, say, gay marriage than, say, electricity prices.” Mason says most critics, including Holmes, don’t understand “how radio actually works”. It’s a team affair, Mason says — presenters guide discussion between guests, who offer a far greater variety of viewpoints than any one person could hope to bring forth. “The reality is that if we were the hotbed of leftie sentiment that many of our critics say we are, we’d be breaching our own very rigorous editorial standards, and we’d be found out every single time, not only by our audiences, but by the ABC’s independent Audience & Consumer Affairs unit and the ACMA, which investigate complaints about bias,” he said. “Radio is focusing on real, contemporary Australia where the

Page 23 Join the ABC Friends There is strength in numbers, and every membership counts at this time of unprecedented attacks on ‘Our ABC’. To join go to www.abcfriends.org.au or phone your local contact below.

ABC Friends NEW SOUTH WALES & ACT President MAL HEWITT Friends of the ABC QUEENSLAND President ROSS MCDOWELL ABC Friends SOUTH AUSTRALIA & NT President SUE PINNOCK ABC Friends TASMANIA President MARGARET REYNOLDS ABC Friends VICTORIA President PETER MONIE ABC Friends WESTERN AUSTRALIA President BOBBIE MACKLEY

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