The Ethnic Broadcaster Autumn 2003 Edition National Ethnic and Multicultural Broadcasters’ Council Embracing Training, Empowering the New Facesatthe NEMBC Reporting The FirstCasualty ofWar: Wartime 2002 Manicaros Award Winners Innovative YoungBroadcasters Training Program AERTP: CelebratingaUnique Inside: Community PRESIDENT’S PEN Contents The 2002 NEMBC Conference, held in Adelaide in November, focused on 3 AERTP: A Unique Program Under Threat improving participation in ethnic broadcasting amongst youth and 4 Funding the community broadcasting emerging communities. Another focus sector was the continuation of the Australian 5 AERTP: A Unique Training Program Ethnic Radio Training Project (AERTP). These issues are shaping the NEMBC’s course in the 6 In Their Own Words immediate future. 7 Tips for Better Broadcasting As reported elsewhere in this issue of The Ethnic Broadcaster, the highlight of the conference was the 8 Adelaide Hosts the 2002 NEMBC presence, (the greatest ever at an NEMBC conference), Conference and active participation of young people and delegates 9 Promoting and Celebrating Ethnic from new and emerging communities. That fifty percent Community Broadcasting of the delegates were women is an encouraging sign of change. The issue of increased youth involvement in 11 Access and Generational Change ethnic community broadcasting has now largely passed 14 Building a Successful Multicultural Society the stage of discussion and debate and has entered the stage of practical implementation and the allocation of 16 NEMBC Women’s Committee NEMBC and station resources to ensure tangible outcomes. 17 New Faces at the NEMBC

The next NEMBC Executive meeting will be held on 5 – 18 Radio and Emerging Communities 6 April. The Executive will discuss and act upon 2002 19 Innovative Young Broadcasters – 2002 Conference proposals especially those regarding Manicaros Winners increased youth involvement. The Conference proposal to ensure greater involvement and representation by 20 In the Spotlight ethnic broadcasters in remote communities must also 21 No More Pauline Hanson Stories receive early consideration. 23 News YOU Can Use! The Ethnic News Work has begun on the Emerging and Refugee Communities Project, an 18-month project funded by Digest the Department of Immigration, Multicultural and 24 $$$$$ MONEY $$$$$ Indigenous Affairs (DIMIA). Indira Narayan, an experienced trainer and broadcaster, is developing and 26 Station News implementing the project. 30 Message to Ethnic and Multicultural On the critical question of increased funding to the Broadcasters sector, the NEMBC continues to be active, within ethnic 31 We Respond to the Minister communities and in meetings with politicians and Government Ministers. Additional funding is essential to 32 The First Casualty of War: Wartime keep pace with ever escalating costs and sector Reporting expansion and is particularly required for the continuation of the Australian Ethnic Radio Training Project. In this difficult and ethnically and racially divisive time it On the 17th February we met with the Minister for is imperative that ethnic community broadcasters be Communications, Information Technology and the Arts, provided with more resources to maintain their moral Senator Alston, to explain our position and press our and social support for the policy of multiculturalism and case on funding issues. Although the Minister for harmonious relations between peoples and nations. expressed interest in our position, he stressed that the George Zangalis Government’s priorities in this year’s budget are NEMBC President defence and security.

Cover photo: Current AERTP 3ZZZ trainees L-R: Tony Chan; Elina Polkane; Karen Wong Kar Hang; Kevin Garcia; Larissa Romensky (AERTP trainer). Photo by Ponch Hawkes AERTP: A Unique Program Under Threat

L-R: Tamil Ramesh (Kurdish Program) and current AERTP 3ZZZ trainees Jack (Chi Wah) Tai, Kevin Garcia, Karen Wong Kar Hang, Haidy Eskander, Elina Polkane, Tony Chan, Larissa Romensky (AERTP trainer). Photo by Ponch Hawkes

Over the last ten years the English speaking broadcasters in of the AERTP continued funding is Australian Ethnic Radio the commercial or national still in doubt. Training Project (AERTP) has broadcasting sectors. Volunteers are the heart and soul of trained over 3000 ethnic AERTP courses are fully accredited community broadcasting, They community broadcasters in and aligned to the national training come from a wide variety of radio skills. 23,000 modules of package and yet they are incredibly backgrounds. Most have had no training have been delivered to participants from 82 different language groups. “Promoting harmony and understanding is not simply a matter of Community groups as diverse multiculturalism – it is also a matter of security. A narrow focus on as Tamil and Turkish, Hmong the military, the police and intelligence underestimates our real and Hungarian, Cantonese security needs.” and Croatian have benefited from the high level training their broadcasters have cost-effective. The Australian previous experience in received. National Training Authority’s Annual broadcasting. The training offered The AERTP is a unique program Report states that “in 2000, the by the AERTP has been a critical developed from scratch to average national cost of providing factor in the ever-increasing quality specifically cater to the training one hour of training was $12.70”. and consistency of the work of needs of ethnic community The average hourly cost of AERTP volunteer presenters in our sector. broadcasters. Continually refined training is half of that, at $6.50 per It has been suggested that the over a decade, the AERTP is not a hour, or $250,000 a year. Despite AERTP should move to a user pays rehash of training developed for the success and cost-effectiveness

The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 - 3 basis – that volunteers who already Multicultural Affairs, Mr. Hardgrave, on the military, the police and donate their time and energy to the and the Minister for intelligence underestimates our real service of their community should Communications, Information security needs. pay for the privilege. This would be Technology and the Arts, Senator As George Zangalis points out in a huge backwards step for ethnic Alston. To date however neither has his letter to the Minister for community broadcasting. It would been prepared to commit funds to Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs, seriously affect the ability of the AERTP. the AERTP has played a major role broadcasters from new and The response has been that in breaking down racial prejudice in emerging communities, as well as funding is not assured and that the media. At this critical time there young people and women, to get on defence and security are high is no logic in cutting short this air and raise their broadcasting priorities on the funding agenda. successful program. skills. We understand that, but suggest At a recent strategy meeting of the While the Federal Government that perhaps the government’s National Ethnic Radio Training acknowledges the value of the concept of security is too narrow. Taskforce (NERTT) strong support AERTP it has not yet agreed to Multiculturalism has been very was expressed for the continued continue funding the service. We successful in Australia – ours has funding of the AERTP. Chaired by have had courteous hearings from been a peaceful and comparatively Professor Mary Kalantzis, Dean of the Minister for Citizenship and tolerant society in recent years. Education at RMIT University, and Ethnic community broadcasting has including representatives from the been a powerful force in promoting SBS, the ABC and the training “After immensely enjoying the understanding and harmony sector, the NERTT has reaffirmed AERTP training, I applied to between different communities. its support for the AERTP. NERTT become a trainer and was With the threat of war in Iraq and members will work with the NEMBC accepted. I love the whole concept with the reality of terrorist attacks in over the coming months to ensure of skills sharing, especially when New York and Bali, tensions are that the AERTP continues to skill working with people from diverse rising. Promoting harmony and and empower the next generation of cultural backgrounds” understanding is not simply a ethnic community broadcasters. Josine Wepter, ethnic broadcaster matter of multiculturalism – it is also and AERTP trainer. a matter of security. A narrow focus

Funding the community broadcasting sector

In February a delegation from the community In this meeting the NEMBC was represented by the broadcasting sector travelled to Canberra to President, George Zangalis. support the sector’s funding submission in the In early March the group again traveled to Canberra context of the next Federal Budget. Executive where they met Gary Hardgrave, Minister for Officer Darce Cassidy represented the NEMBC. Citizenship & Multicultural Affairs; Laurie Ferguson, The group met with senior advisers to members of the Shadow Minister for Citizenship & Multicultural Affairs; Expenditure Review Committee. They included advisers Bob McMullen, Shadow Minister for the Arts; Andrew to the Prime Minister, the Minister for Communications, Bartlett, Leader of the Democrats; and Lindsay Tanner, Information Technology and the Arts, the Minister for Shadow Minister for Communications. Finance, the Minister for Environment and Heritage and The NEMBC will keep working hard on this issue with the Assistant Treasurer. other organisations in the community broadcasting Later in February the delegation built on the previous sector. Meantime we will keep you up to date with any discussions in Canberra with a meeting in Melbourne developments in the critical area of funding to our with Senator Alston, the Minister for Communications. sector.

4 - The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 A UniqueAERTP: Training Program

HOW IT WORKS Committees, Processes and The Australian Ethnic Radio Policies Training Project (AERTP) is now Building Your Audience aligned to the national training Getting Sponsors package covering radio. Music for Radio Website Design WHAT IS A NATIONAL Basic On-line Audio TRAINING PACKAGE? Advanced On-line Audio National training packages have been developed by the State and For more information regarding Federal bodies responsible for the training program check out our training to establish standards that website www.nembc.org.au spell out the skills and knowledge under Training. necessary to undertake particular roles in broadcasting. It also CERTIFICATES WITHIN THE provides a nationally agreed approach in determining how TRAINING PROGRAM Current AERTP 3ZZZ trainees L-R: Tony AVAILABLE THROUGH AERTP these skills are to be assessed in Chan; Elina Polkane; Karen Wong Kar order to issue a qualification. Hang; Kevin Garcia; Larissa Romensky Certificate II in Broadcasting (radio) (AERTP trainer). Photo by Ponch Hawkes The qualifications are recognised – Foundations in broadcasting nationally. Introduction to Radio Certificate II in Broadcasting (radio) WHAT QUALIFICATIONS ARE Studio Use and Recording – News and Current Affairs OFFERED THROUGH AERTP? Broadcast Law and Standards Each of the four courses delivered Program Preparation and Certificate III in Broadcasting (radio) through AERTP is designed to have Evaluation ’ a production outcome if they are Scripting and Writing for Radio undertaken as part of a certificate Certificate IV in Broadcasting (radio) Program Presentation course, however individual topics in the Certificates III and IV can also Broadcasters, their Communities be delivered independently of one and Cultural Diversity another. Interviewing for Radio AERTP COORDINATOR Editing CERTIFICATE II IN LEAVES THE NEMBC Introduction to the Internet BROADCASTING (RADIO) Helen Bowman, the AERTP Portable Recording There are two ways in which the Coordinator, has not renewed Certificate II in Broadcasting (radio) CERTIFICATE IV IN her contract and will be leaving can be undertaken through AERTP. BROADCASTING (RADIO) the NEMBC in early April. It can be offered either as a general A Certificate IV in Broadcasting The NEMBC wishes Helen well introduction to radio broadcasting, (radio) can be built through the in her future endeavors and (Foundations of Broadcasting), or following topics: acknowledges with appreciation as an introduction to news and Talkback the huge contribution that she current affairs. These are stand- Promotional Announcements has made to the AERTP during alone courses. Making a Documentary her time here. CERTIFICATE III IN Program Research The AERTP Coordinator’s BROADCASTING (RADIO) News and Current Affairs position is currently being The topics covered in the Certificate Special Events Broadcasting III in Broadcasting (radio) are the Bilingual Broadcasting advertised and will be filled essential skills for radio production Oral History within the next 5–6 weeks. and presentation:

The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 - 5 InAERTP: Their Own Words

Ethnic broadcasting in “Our broadcasters community radio stations has appreciate the fact that the established a training culture training they do is not only and this culture, in turn, has interesting but also improved the quality of provides them with a ethnic programming. qualification which is recognised nationally.” “…the Government is Maureen O’Keeffe – 3ZZZ certainly aware that the Station Manager effectiveness of the last three years of additional funding has been enhanced Current AERTP 3ZZZ trainee Kevin Garcia with Larissa by the success of the Ethnic Romensky (AERTP trainer). Photo by Ponch Hawkes Radio Training Fund in providing training grants that have not only improved “The practical training was really useful. Apart from content, we had the access to the airwaves for opportunity to meet with people from other communities to exchange programming ethnic language groups, but ideas and get an insight into other cultures. Earlier, I was very formal in my also the quality of presentation. The training gave me the confidence to speak more informally and programming.” person to person to our listeners. I understand now, how radio with its use of voice works differently to other media, such as newspapers.” Fiona Poletti, Former Ministerial Adviser for Vijay Wardhen (3ZZZ Hindi Program) – AERTP trainee Broadcasting Media and the Arts

10 years of AERTP = a huge contribution to the ethnic broadcasting sector:

3000 ethnic community broadcasters trained in radio production and presentation skills.

23,000 modules of training delivered. 82 different language groups benefiting from trained broadcasters

Current AERTP 3ZZZ trainee Haidy Eskander. Photo by Ponch Hawkes

Federal Government, local government, and vocational education authorities acknowledge the project’s value. “I’m very pleased to support the work being undertaken for the community by volunteer ethnic broadcasters and local community stations. I believe that the AERTP is performing well in the ACT and there is strong support for the AERTP amongst the Canberra Community.”

Garry Humphries – former Chief Minister ACT Current AERTP 3ZZZ trainees L-R: Elina Polkane, Karen Wong Kar Hang, Kevin Garcia. Photo by Ponch Hawkes 6 - The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 Tips for BETTER BROADCASTING to Your Community

This is an edited version of a presentation Maureen O’Keeffe delivered at the 2002 NEMBC Conference. Gather as much information as you Make sure your guests use Access to the airwaves is a can so you are equipped with the microphones correctly and you avoid privilege and brings with it knowledge of the real size of your unnecessary noise and silence. responsibilities. For ethnic potential audience. Maintain a consistent volume level community broadcasters the main for the entire broadcast. With this knowledge you are in the responsibility is to make programs unique and responsible position of Unexpected things will happen from that serve their community. being able to serve this audience. time to time but you should always Many volunteer broadcasters have aim for technical perfection. That 2. SERVE YOUR AUDIENCE been producing regular programs way your listeners can concentrate for 10 or more years, others are just Once you have gathered some on what you are saying rather than starting out. Whatever your level of information on your community, being distracted by technical experience, it never hurts to take take a close look at your program mistakes. time to reflect on your programs and ask yourself if it has something 4. LISTEN TO YOUR PROGRAM and try and make them that little bit for everyone and truly reflects the better, by doing so you will be needs of the community? If the How often do you record and really serving your community better. answer is yes -congratulations! If listen to your program and I mean not, think about ways to start Here are a few tips for better actively listen, to the format of the introducing new segments into the broadcasting: show, the technical quality and the program that will fill in the gaps. type of music? 1. KNOW YOUR AUDIENCE A good way to start is by aiming to Does is sound fresh, alive and Ethnic broadcasters do tend to know change just five minutes of your inviting? Does it serve the needs of their audience better than most radio program. In those 5 minutes you all members of your community? Is it broadcasters. You are likely to meet could introduce a new segment for technically as perfect as it can be? with people who listen to your newly arrived migrants, a segment It is a good idea to regularly listen program and you may be a member in English for second and third back to your program, perhaps of cultural and social organizations, generation members of your once every 3–6 months and so you do get to know part of your community or get a young person in critically assess how it’s going. You audience first hand. But is that really to present a short piece. the full picture? and your program team should be With gradual change you are able the best critics. Often well meaning Do you know the total population of to keep your old audience, while friends and family will tell you they your group? Are they all young or also appealing to new listeners. love the show but perhaps won’t older or a mix? How many migrated 3. GET IT RIGHT IN THE STUDIO offer you the feedback you really in the ‘50s and ‘60s and how many need. are newly arrived? What about Being a volunteer does not excuse second and third generations, do you from performing technical tasks By following these four steps you you consider they are part of your professionally. will make better programs that audience? better serve your community. For all Be sure you are familiar with all the of us that should be the ultimate The ABS and other organisations equipment in the studio prior to goal. such as migrant resource centers using it. can help with this information. Maureen O’Keeffe 3ZZZ Station Manager

The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 - 7 Adelaide Hosts the 2002 NEMBC Conference The NEMBC wishes to thank 5EBI for being such fantastic hosts!

The 2002 NEMBC Conference: Access = Our Future: Generational Change, held in Adelaide on the weekend of the 15–17 November, was a highlight of the year. A time where we had the opportunity to catch up with fellow broadcasters from around Australia. A time to renew friendships and to make new ones.

Friday afternoon saw Joanne Fettke chair the session Access & participation for young people and emerging communities in programmes and stations. This was a very lively session with a varied range of broadcasters L-R: George Zangalis (President - NEMBC); Hon. Michael Atkinson participating both from the table and from the floor. (SA State Minister for Multicultural Affairs); Wally Thachuk (5EBI); Three general workshops focused on practical access Nenita Lopez-Weekes (2MCE-FM); Bill Edmonds (5EBI); Councillor and participation strategies / activities for stations and Bob Angrove. Photo courtesy of Nenita Weekes programmers for increasing youth and emerging overview the situation of AERTP funding. He explained community participation. what the NEMBC had done so far and what it intended Friday evening, broadcasters chose to find their own to do in the future, to make sure that the AERTP entertainment, with many touring the streets of Adelaide funding does not dry up as is the Government’s and enjoying the many eateries that we have to offer. intention. John Martin from the Community Many of our younger delegates attended some local Broadcasting Foundation presented the CBF’s nightspots and danced the night away. guidelines and the availability of the many grants that broadcasters & stations may apply for. Saturday morning and down to business. The keynote speaker was The Hon. Stephanie Key, Minister for the The last session of the day gave broadcasters a chance Status of Women and also Minister for Youth and to meet up with broadcasters of the same nationalities, Emerging Communities. The Minister outlined her role to swap ideas and learn about their counterparts. within her portfolios, and how ethnic community radio is Sunday morning opened with pollie time. The Hon. Gary important to her. Hardgrave, Minister for Citizenship and Multicultural Serafina Maiorano, who has worked extensively in the Affairs, outlined what the Government was doing for area of cultural development in the arts, with a ethnic radio and confirmed the government’s commitment particular focus on the participation of culturally diverse to the sector. Mr Laurie Ferguson, Shadow Minister for communities and culturally diverse youth in the arts, Multicultural Affairs, highlighted the importance of ethnic gave us an excellent insight into the integration of radio and importance of youth and emerging communities. ethnic broadcasting and the arts. The policy forum consisting of Codes of Practice, (Jan There were various plenary and workshops throughout McArthur), and the Digital Delivery Network, (David the day on subjects such as working with refugees, Sice), rounded off the conference as everyone said their better broadcasting, content, presentation & linking up, good-byes and returned to the many parts of Australia. copy writing for sponsorships and funding. The plenary See you in 2003. on funding gave George Zangalis the opportunity to Brenda Degenhart (5EBI-FM) 8 - The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 The National Ethnic Celebrating Multicultural Broadcasters Council and Promoting Conference 2002 Ethnic Community Broadcasting

Broadcasters from all over Australia descended in Adelaide last year where they attended the 2002 NEMBC Conference. The theme for this conference was ‘Access and Generational Change’. I was fortunate to be able to attend this conference and represent 2MCE-FM community radio station. This was my second NEMBC L-R: Nenita Lopez-Weekes, Ian Stanistreet (CBF), Marguerite Rooke (8CCC / Alice Springs Migrant Resource Centre), Darce Cassidy conference, and I noticed a (NEMBC), Deb Welch (Radio Adelaide / CBF), Graeme Story (AERTP much greater involvement of trainer). Photo courtesy of Nenita Weekes women and young people. SPEAKERS presented a recent survey on The main focus of the 2002 funded program languages where a Conference concerned getting more The conference commenced with few questions were raised young people involved in ethnic various speakers identifying concerning the hours allocated to radio programming and improving important issues for programmers various languages. The Committee media access for newly arrived and stations and examples of has also produced a handbook, immigrant communities. Ethnic successful activities at stations. which has been sent to all stations radio has relatively few young Maarten de Weerd, (5EBI & including 2MCE. In the handbook contributors. It is dominated by NEMBC Youth Committee), spoke managers are familiarised with the elderly European men, so there has of youth issues such as barriers to broadcasting experienced been a campaign to get more involvement in decision making and by emerging communities such as: participation from females, non- appropriate music for the younger language skills, migrant’s priorities Europeans and young people. This programmer and listener. There when they first arrived, and the lack is proving successful and a new were also suggestions on of a migrant centre in the area. Women’s Committee has been set multicultural youth programming, There are also suggestions on how up which includes fellow Pinoy such as multicultural youth news, to attract the young and fund raising Judith Ventic from Darwin. issues, music, and the importance options, how to address incentives The official opening and reception of new ideas needed for program and lack of resources for buying was held in the Adelaide Town Hall, continuity. music for programs. hosted by Councilor Bob Angrove Naim Saifullah, (2XX & NEMBC Marguerite Rooke, (NEMBC AM, and addressed by the Hon. Youth Committee - ACT), also Emerging Communities Committee Michael Atkinson, the SA State stressed the importance of getting and Alice Springs Migrant Resource Minister for Multicultural Affairs, more young people to participate Centre), spoke of her initially who in his speech stressed that and suggested some promotions as unsuccessful attempt to have a radio is an excellent guide to bring well as direct contact with the youth. radio program, because of lack of the community together. Nicola Joseph, (NEMBC Emerging support in a very small community. Communities Committee), She has now managed to establish

The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 - 9 a multicultural program where Serafina Maiorano talked about John Martin talked about funding everybody provides input and has Access and Generational Change. and the role of the Community people from about 15-20 different She has an Italian background and Broadcasting Foundation. nationalities involved. She also was a delegate at The International We had a good time socially, stressed the importance of radio in Youth Conference in Europe. visiting a Turkish Restaurant, where remote areas, the importance of Serafina spoke about the role of we were entertained by a belly cooperation and community spirit in community radio and about young dancer, and later a dinner to the the bush, and the support needed people’s participation. She found famous Eagle on the Hill restaurant from ethnic organisations in order to out that young people are just not overlooking Adelaide, where we continue this program. involved, dislike the music on ethnic danced to an exotic band from the radio, and have a belonging Osai Faiva, an NEMBC Executive Sudan in Africa. member, also shared his problem. She also spoke about her experience as an ethnic experiences with an aboriginal elder Getting young people to participate broadcaster. He pointed out the about letting go and allowing the in ethnic community radio, or importance of being in touch with younger generation to continue indeed in any kind of community the community through radio and their work. activity is difficult. Part of the the concept of networking and to problem is to do with language. The Margaret Bako, an Adelaide based wear the shoes of clients, to general view is that as much of the refugee and emerging communities understand their needs and to programming as possible is in the worker and translator, spoke about challenge attempts to get mother tongue. I have problems the issues singles mothers face and participants in a one size fits all with this myself. how she established a youth manner. On my program, I provide news in Pilipino, interviews in English and do bilingual introductions to records. If the whole program was purely in Pilipino, it would not please my Cebuano listeners, nor Filipino’s Australian partners and certainly wouldn’t appeal to the younger ones who were born in Australia.

I feel that ethnic broadcasting should inform and entertain, and most importantly open doors not Judith Ventic (NEMBC Women’s Committee) & Nenita Lopez-Weekes. Photo courtesy of Nenita Lopez-Weekes close them. The openness of Filipinos in Australia has paid huge The second day began with a workshop where the importance of dividends. Have you noticed that keynote address by the Hon. their culture were stressed. despite two recent horrific murders Stephanie Key, SA Minster for involving Filipinos, no one in the WORKSHOPS Youth and the Status for Women. media has suggested this is typical She said that radio is the best Ms Maureen O’Keeffe, 3ZZZ of Philippine culture or that we provider for information on women Station Manager, led a discussion should all go back or not be allowed and it is important that women have on better broadcasting: content, here in the first place. So I think we access to it in the community. It was presentation and linking up. should not only celebrate and emphasised that older people must promote our culture, but also share it Ramkumar Konesparamoorthy (Top stay connected with the young, that with all Australians, to help remove FM), Jack Petit (1 CMS) and Darce all could learn from the young, and ignorance, fear and prejudice. Cassidy (NEMBC) facilitated a added that this was particularly workshop on better broadcasting. Nenita Weekes important in aging communities. 2MCE-FM

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10 - The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 Access Our Future: generational& change in Ethnic Community Broadcasting Conference 2002 Edited version of Serafina Maiorano’s Keynote Address at the 2002 NEMBC Conference

Firstly I wish to acknowledge woman into the ‘workings’ of my existence in order to endure and the land on which we meet is own post World War ll migrant evolve over time. Kaurna land. community. These spaces are incredibly vital … I have been invited to speak with I have had the opportunity to meet intimate … at times a lifeline to you today about strategies that with people of diverse generations one’s identity … and should never increase involvement from young and have sat through many be underestimated. people. I can only offer strategies committee meetings. In the past So this leads me to reflect on the that relate to my own fields of these meetings have often led to purpose of this medium… practice – that I believe may also discussions about the lack of youth relate to your field of practice – participation and intergenerational WHAT IS THE ROLE OF which is the extraordinary medium dialogue in cultural and community COMMUNITY RADIO? of radio. So please accept this activities. I have heard over I acknowledge that you can all offering today as that, and coming recurring periods of time statements answer this question much better from a listener and interviewee of such as: than I can. community radio, rather than a “We tried to involve young people What excites me is the role seasoned producer and presenter. but there aren’t any.” community radio has as a means of Although I must say every time I get “We tried to involve young people public civic participation. to a radio mike a part of me always but they don’t want to come.” Radio is an extraordinary tool – it wishes I could learn so much more “They don’t speak the language.” keeps sustaining itself. Over 99% of about this medium – I just love it! “Their musical tastes are different to people own a radio – we wake up to ours.” In providing strategies I would like it in the morning, have breakfast to share with you my own personal I have specifically seen this occur in with it, go to bed with it, drive with it experiences as a younger some community club environments and jog with it. It is such an intimate Australian and child of migration – – a ‘space of belonging’ created for communication tool and also a form experiences that have led me to and by the community at a of empowerment, entertainment strongly support the current themes particular period in time and which and education. It is a companion – of this conference – Our Future: now struggles to gain the it has sustained itself because of Access and Generational Change. attendance of young people of that the pure need that people have to culture. communicate. It has provided the Over the years I have had the opportunity for people to hear and opportunity to work with diverse I see community radio as another converse in their own languages cultural communities, and in vital ‘space’ for community and from the privacy of their own homes addition to my own Italian cultural belonging. Given that to the public realms of our community in South Australia, and culture is constantly changing it communities. It has played a part in to a certain extent interstate and really is essential that all these shaping our world and the way we overseas. This has provided me community spaces need to interact with it. with a valuable insight as a young challenge their own notion of

The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 - 11 I would like to offer some strategies youth of various cultures. They then Australia. They are perfectly that I believe are essential in need to bring youth into the positioned to be a key resource a creating new pathways in decision making process – so that key resource in the establishment partnership with young people: young people can be part of of vibrant and exciting global decisions about producing content dialogues for community radio. 1. ACTIVE PARTICIPATION AND for programs and also marketing REPRESENTATION IN THE What role can the NEMBC play in the programs. DECISION MAKING PROCESS – developing opportunities for IN DEVELOPING POLICIES, 2. HOW TO ACTIVATE international intercultural exchange CONTENT, PRODUCTION AND GENERATIONAL CHANGE? programs for young people? For MARKETING. I believe we have come to a point in example, can the NEMBC partner I have been attending a seminar our history, where elected with other similar community radio over the past week presented by committees now have the bodies across the world to establish the Australian Institute of Company responsibility to consider the next international professional Directors entitled ‘Board Women’. I phase, and to consider the development exchanges for young was fortunate enough to be offered following: radio producers / presenters? a scholarship to attend this seminar, How do we create the space for the I see culturally diverse young whose main aim was to ‘draw’ elders to feel at ease – when the people as an incredible global women of diverse generations and time has come – to let go? resource. In 2000 I attended a diverse cultures ‘out of the conference in Rome where the woodwork’ as potential or current How do we create the space for Italian government brought together board members – decision makers. community elders to be young people from all over the acknowledged for the vital work In an article about the seminar in world. It was an incredibly they have done in establishing and Wednesday’s The Advertiser it opportunity for us to meet each maintaining a viable space for stated: other, make links culturally and communication, education and professionally. These international “Social and cultural diversity was as empowerment? opportunities provide valuable important to producing balanced How does a handover occur that cultural content for youth boards as getting more women (and acknowledges the past (in all its programming and foster important youth) involved … Alternative points successes and failures) whilst networks that are relevant to them. of view and a wider range of generating a vibrant space for the They also allow the stories of experiences and skills made for new (and allowing for all its migration to be brought to other stronger and effective boards … successes and failures)? audiences in diverse ways. Younger people have different ways 3. YOUNG PEOPLE ARE KEY of looking at an organisation’s How wonderful would it be to have PLAYERS IN THE performance than people of more scholarships / professional REVITALISATION OF CULTURE development opportunities, mature years … Diversity provides AND A LINK TO THEIR GLOBAL established through private, a check and balance to ask DIASPORA. community and government different questions … and make the Do we see our communities as part partnerships, where young people right decision for the business or of a growing global diaspora – an of a particular diaspora were given organisation.” abundant resource of networks and the chance to meet other young This quote is just as relevant to content for stories just waiting to be people of their diaspora across the community radio stations and their tapped? world, with the aim of developing committees/boards. In addition, it is content together, etc? In certain Is it the role of radio to promote vital that we go beyond the notion circumstances, young people would cultural revitalisation with second of a single youth representative on need to learn the language, or and third generation Australians? committees. Generational diversity improve existing language skills, as needs to be equally represented, as Is it the role of radio to create other a means of communication. a means of democratic process and spaces for international intercultural Perhaps this type of dialogue can smart business. exchange programs with young commence with on line streaming people of their diaspora? If community radio stations want to projects, the Internet is the perfect increase their listener base then These new diaspora are part of a space for young people from all they have to look at the future – the growing multicultural, multilingual over the world to communicate and

12 - The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 learn. I am told that in particular the Serafina Maiorano is a freelance member of the Australian Network Vietnamese community is quite producer, project manager and for Art and Technology and the active in this area. Stations might cultural worker. Women’s Advisory Council in South act as a source of funding and Australia, and is currently a board professional development for She has worked in the area of member of the Adelaide Fringe fostering these global relationships cultural development in the arts, Festival, Graham F Smith Peace amongst youth - a pilot project with a particular focus on the Trust and AustraliaDonna. along these lines would be a participation of culturally diverse wonderful way to encourage youth communities and culturally diverse She has held various roles over the participation and engagement. youth in the arts. years: Communications and Business Manager, Parallelo arts I believe that community radio is at Her areas of expertise also include company; Communications Co- an important cross roads in time, communications and partnership ordinator, Adelaide Festival 2002; and look forward to an exciting development. Producer of ‘Rainforest for an future. Serafina was until 2002 the Vice Australian Desert’ public artwork I wish to thank you once again for President of COMITES SA (Council (SA Tourism Commission’s 2002 inviting me here today and would for Italians Abroad in South Year of the Outback event); welcome a continued dialogue on Australia), where she advocated for Campaign Coordinator, Justice for strategies for a future that leads to the representation of youth and Refugees SA and Project Manager, access and generational change. women. She has been a board Urban Theatre Projects.

From 3ZZ to 3ZZZ A Short History of Ethnic Broadcasting in Australia A 3ZZZ publication by George Zangalis

A 230 page illustrated book by The closure of 3ZZ and the and for those who made it fight back happen. The ABC reaction From 200 hours a week of The struggles for acceptance ethnic broadcasting in 1975 to and celebration of diversity 2000 hours in 2002, through 100 within the community radio stations all over Australia. broadcasting sector (CBAA, CBF, 3CR) Breaking the monolingual, The threat and challenge of monocultural media stranglehold commercial ethnic broadcasting and Establishing principles of substandard overseas access and equity imports Helping to build a Generational changes multicultural Australian society Available from 3ZZZ on tel: (03) Resisting government 9415 1928, or the NEMBC on attempts to control and Tel: (03) 9486 9549. manipulate $12 plus $5 postage and handling

The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 - 13 began and ended with those Building a pioneers. I commend the work of the NEMBC Youth Committee in developing initiatives to encourage Successful greater involvement of young people. More than any previous Government, this Government has made a huge commitment to ethnic community Multicultural broadcasting. In the first year of our first term, we announced an infrastructure package comprising Society some $10.5 million in special purpose funding. Over the past six years this Edited version of Gary Hardgrave’s speech to the NEMBC Conference, has been used to fund multicultural November 2002. broadcasting, the Community Radio Satellite Service, the Community This conference comes at a Broadcasting Database and the time of considerable Community Access Network – 208 uncertainty, a time when people computers bringing the sector into are perhaps more inclined to the Internet age. perceive cultural differences In the 2002-3 Budget the between themselves and Government reaffirmed its others, rather than seeing the commitment to ethnic community things that unite us. broadcasting, renewing targeted Australia is perhaps luckier than funding for another four years. some other countries in this respect postwar generations of migrants – I am sure you feel the government – thanks to our healthy and vibrant broadcasting news, current affairs, could do more. The sector has been multiculturalism. information and music in their own languages. Ethnic community lobbying for funding for the Australian Ethnic community broadcasting has broadcasting was the link between Ethnic Radio Training Project played a powerful role in building a them and the broader community. It (AERTP) to be renewed in the next successful and cohesive multicultural helped them become a part of that Federal Budget, for example. society for almost 30 years. It has broader community. The sector has been telling the given a voice to those Australians for government for a long time that it is whom the mainstream media cannot In 2002, the audience profile has one of the main sources of media adequately cater. It has opened the changed. Not only must ethnic training in Australia. Let me assure eyes and ears of all of us to the community broadcasting continue you that the Government diversity of our social, cultural and to provide news, information and recognises the significant political life. entertainment to the older, well- established ethnic communities, it contribution of AERTP – the only One hundred and four stations must help the more recent waves of ethnic language based source of around Australia broadcast some migrants and refugees. Ethnic training for ethnic broadcasters. ethnic community programming broadcasting helps these new The Government will weigh up the Together they produce about 1700 arrivals gain access to government sector’s funding proposal along with hours of programming a week in information and programs. It helps many others it will evaluate in the almost 100 languages, broadcasting them establish and then maintain context of next year’s Budget. to the 2.9 million Australians who vital community networks and speak a language other than English However the Budget will be very support structures. at home. tight this year, with demand for A proportion of ethnic community security and defence spending high They do this remarkable job with the radio’s audience is made up of young on the government’s agenda. It help of 4000 volunteers – ethnic people. Some speak languages would be in the sector’s best community broadcasting’s biggest other than English at home. interests – as it would be in the asset and its greatest strength. Their participation is essential to interests of community broadcasting When ethnic community broadcasting the future of ethnic broadcasting. It more widely – to investigate other began, its audience was made up of would be a terrible waste if the possibilities for ongoing funding. people who had migrated to Australia experience and wisdom of the Hon. Gary Hardgrave MP in the 1950s and 60s. Ethnic pioneers of ethnic broadcasting Minister for Citizenship and broadcasting was a lifeline for these Multicultural Affairs

14 - The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 they developed . My parliamentary Broadcasting is colleague Maria Vamvakinou recalls her own experience in co-hosting a current affairs program on one of About your stations. She is now in the Federal Parliament and a colleague from that program is now a producer of the Lateline program on Community ABC TV. She reminds me that she also learnt then that producing broadcast programs is time- Building consuming and often frustrating. Edited version of Laurie Ferguson’s speech to the NEMBC Conference, Learning as I have about this skills November 2002. development aspect, I remain critical of the Government’s failure It is instructive to realise that to ensure a secure financial future ethnic community for the Australian Ethnic Radio broadcasting predates much Training Project. In the past nine of the migrant settlement years, that project has provided infrastructure such as Migrant accredited training to mare than Resource Centres that we 2500 ethnic broadcasters from now take for granted. People about 80 separate language are now unaware of the groups. Broadcasters have crucial struggles that completed over 21,000 training occurred for the modules. The project has over 140 establishment of ethnic news and information, important as trainers nationally and participants broadcasting, and community they are. Nor do you just entertain. from language groups as diverse as control of your stations. For many newly arrived ethnic Tamil, Turkish, Latvian, Spanish, In a few weeks time my party communities, struggling with the and Somali. The training provides celebrates the 30th anniversary of difficulties of settling in a new broadcasters with on-site and the election of the Whitlam country, your broadcasting work is extremely cost-effective experience. Government. In doing so I am truly about community building. It I certainly know its value and confident we will remember that the provides a means for isolated government was the first to seriously acknowledge the reality “Australia…is not a monolingual or monocultural society” that Australia was, and is, not a monolingual or monocultural families and individuals to link strongly believe it deserves society. It grappled, not always together, take action and fight for continuing support. successfully, to provide access and recognition and rights. Equally Unfortunately, while the number of equity to Australians whose first important is your role in helping language was not English. stations providing ethnic second and subsequent broadcasting has significantly As George Zangalis has frequently generations to retain the language increased in recent years, funding reminded both Lindsay Tanner and skills and culture of their parents. for the training project will be myself, the sector has grown to Thirdly you provide companionship exhausted at the end of this over 100 stations around Australia. and support to the elderly members financial year. I understand it It produces programming in almost of more established communities, requires a commitment for around 100 languages with the assistance as they often revert later in life to $250,000 a year to continue, of some 4000 volunteers. With far benefiting over 200 trainee less taxpayer support you cover 50 the almost exclusive use of their broadcasters each year. Prompt per cent more languages than SBS mother tongue. radio and deliver three times as action should be taken to enable Volunteers are the backbone of much original programming. this to happen. your sector. Many volunteers speak Laurie Ferguson MP To me your work does not just highly of the skills, personal Shadow Minister for Citizenship and contribute to the dissemination of networks and self-confidence that Multicultural Affairs The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 - 15 NEMBC Women’s Committee

The past twelve At the telephone months have been conference held in an exciting time for February 2003, the the Women’s Committee Committee. We undertook, as one held two national of its projects for telephone 2003, to produce a conferences plus a multilingual CD of face to face songs sung by International Women’s Day women from various ethnic conference in June 2002, Messages – multilingual backgrounds. giving committee members cassettes and CD’s produced Strategies, topics and guest speakers opportunities to get together over two consecutive years and to plan for the next year. for the Women’s workshops at the Migrant Women in the Our Committee applied for a grant 2003 national conference will be to the Community Broadcasting Workforce – an oral history finalised at the face to face Women’s Foundation to produce a brochure. series of ten programs on CD conference to be held in June 2003. We would like to thank the CBF for produced by migrant women If you have any suggestions or issues approving the grant, and also 6EBA community broadcasters, telling that you would like to discuss, please for their tremendous contribution. of the experiences of coming to call Darce Cassidy at the NEMBC The vibrant colours used in the a new country and the struggles Secretariat on (03) 9486 9549 or the brochure are recognised worldwide encountered Women’s Committee representative and correspond to those of The Hon. Stephanie Key, SA in your State. International Women’s Day. The Minister for the Status of Women Brenda Degenhart and Karina Ceron brochure outlines the Charter of the and Youth, launched the brochure Women’s Committee members Committee and the Mission in November 2002 in Adelaide, at Statement, which reads as follows: the NEMBC Conference. The Members of the NEMBC Women’s Committee are: The NEMBC Women’s Committee Minister made particular reference Karina Ceron (Convenor), Tasmania encourages active participation of to the fact that women in – Tel: (03) 6244 1000 women broadcasters in education, broadcasting have come a long Brenda Degenhart, South Australia and informing communities about way; the days when radio was – Tel: (08) 8211 7635 culturally diverse issues, and it definitely a man’s world are gone. Jiselle Hanna, Victoria – Tel: (03) recommends the involvement of Women can now use the media to 9419 8377 women in decision making. distribute and access information Blanca Llorente, New South Wales on diverse issues, where language Also included in the brochure are – Tel: (02) 9662 1618 had previously been a barrier for Badihe Mohebbi, Queensland – Tel: details of projects already many years. undertaken including: (07) 3366 9880 If you would like to receive a copy Dana Popovich, Western Australia – The Women’ s Survey – to of the brochure, please call either Tel: (08) 9227 5958 ascertain the level of the NEMBC Secretariat or the Judith Ventic, Northern Territory – involvement by women Women’s Committee member in Tel: (08) 8945 2631 broadcasters your State. To be appointed – Australian Capital Territory

16 - The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 New

Rebekah Faces Pasqualini – Administrative Officer and Indira Narayan – Ethnic News New, Emerging Digest and Refugee at the Coordinator Communities Project Officer Rebekah Pasqualini has Indira joined the NEMBC extensive experience in office NEMBC in administration for both commercial January 2003. and cultural organisations. The project that she runs is supported by a grant from the Rebekah worked as Events Department of Immigration and Darce Cassidy – Coordinator for the Australian Film Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs Executive Officer Institute where she managed the and by the NEMBC and 3ZZZ. Darce has an Australian Cinémathèque and extensive assisted in the development and Indira works part time to promote background in delivery of AFI Festivals and Screen access to broadcasting for broadcasting, Events. In 2002 Rebekah worked emerging and refugee communities management as part of the Multimedia Teachers in Victoria. Indira facilitates access and advocacy. and Trainers Professional to radio training and airtime as well Development Project at as information flow to these He was a foundation member of OPENChannel. Rebekah was a communities about community 3CR Melbourne, working with the Women in Film & Television (WIFT) radio. station between 1975 and 1989. He board member from 2000–2002. served on the committee for much Indira has been working in of that time and was involved in the Rebekah has a B.A. in community radio for five years introduction of community language Communications (Media Studies) principally with 3CR where she programs to the station. He was the and a strong background in writing worked as a trainer and has made initial trainer and facilitator for the and online content. She has current affairs programs. She has Greek program. extensive experience in working been a member of the 3CR with culturally diverse communities Management Committee for the last Darce worked with the Box Hill and enjoys liaising with a wide two and a half years, and has also College of TAFE to design and range of people. worked with the station’s deliver some of the first training International Women’s Day programs for SBS Radio, and Rebekah appreciates the crucial Collective and Indigenous Liaison lectured in Media Studies at RMIT role that ethnic community Committee. Indira currently works where he taught a course in media broadcasters have played in part-time as 3CR’s Ethnic politics. fostering a vibrant multicultural Resources and Development society. She recognises the He was state Secretary of the ABC Worker. importance of forums that Union (now amalgamated with the encourage inclusiveness and Indira produces two national CPSU) for five years and worked for

multiplicity, of languages, cultures programs for community radio, Photos by Ponch Hawkes many years for the ABC. He worked and experiences. Rebekah looks which are distributed through the for Four Corners and This Day forward to encouraging the greater CBAA’s satellite service. Earth Tonight in television and for AM, PM participation of those currently Matters is an environmental issues and Background Briefing in radio. underrepresented in ethnic program. Accent of Women is a He was state manager of the ABC community broadcasting; young program by and about women from in South Australia between 1989 people, women, newly arrived culturally and linguistically diverse and 1997. migrants and refugees. backgrounds.

The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 - 17 Radio and Emerging Communities

The NEMBC has identified the THE STATION HANDBOOK is also available for new or need to facilitate new migrant aims to assist in the current members of broadcast communities’ access to development of working teams from emerging community broadcasting. This relationships between communities is part of a broader community radio stations and FUNDING FOR EMERGING recognition that more new, emerging and refugee COMMUNITIES services need to be directed communities See the Community Broadcasting towards newer communities was sent to community radio Foundation website in Australia who don’t have stations hosting ethnic www.cbf.com.au for more info and the support structures or the broadcasting application due dates. English skills that older provides a list of emerging groups possess. NEW COMMUNITIES CBF GRANT communities and contact $1500 one off grant available In 2002 the Myer Foundation organisations who may provide within the first year of supported an NEMBC emerging information, funding and support broadcasting to assist program communities project co-ordinated encourages radio stations to establishment. Funding is also by Nicola Joseph. Nicola produced allow several levels of entry to available for refugee the Working with Emerging and the airwaves communities Refugee Communities publication provides information on If your community is emerging and a Handbook for Community broadcasting funding available but is not listed on the CBF Radio Stations . for emerging communities website you can still apply In 2003 Indira Narayan was is available at NEW ETHNIC LANGUAGE employed to co-ordinate the www.nembc.org.au or through GROUPS (ETHNIC CBF GRANTS) NEMBC New, Emerging and Indira. You’re eligible for a grant to Refugee Communities Project. This RADIO FOR EMERGING purchase program materials if project is Victorian based and COMMUNITIES BROCHURES you’re presenting a program in a funded by DIMIA’s Community Often new communities are unsure language not previously Settlement Services Scheme. Indira of how to become involved in broadcast on the station will be: broadcasting and may have FOR FURTHER INFORMATION working with Victorian community difficulties with urgent issues like CONTACT: radio stations to increase access finding work and housing. The for emerging communities brochures inform new and emerging Indira Narayan increasing support for communities about community New, Emerging & Refugee broadcasters from emerging radio. Brochures are in English, Communities Outreach, Training communities Somali, Amharic, Farsi, Arabic, and Broadcasting Project Officer 10am – 3pm Mondays, Tuesdays & promoting community radio Thai, Cambodian (Khmer), Bahasa Thursdays through liaison with emerging Indonesia and Bosnian. Mail: NEMBC, PO Box 1144, communities They are available at Collingwood, VIC 3066 co-ordinating radio broadcasting www.nembc.org.au or through Office and Studios: training programs for emerging Indira. 3ZZZ, 1st Floor 144, communities TRAINING FOR EMERGING George St, Fitzroy liaising with organisations and COMMUNITIES T: 03 9415 1928 government to facilitate is available for potential F: 03 9415 1818 important settlement information broadcasters from emerging e: [email protected] for emerging communities communities in Victoria

18 - The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 Innovative Young Broadcasters 2002 Tony Manicaros Award Winners

The Tony Manicaros Award supports projects of significance for ethnic community broadcasting. The award commemorates and celebrates Tony Manicaros’ work for ethnic community broadcasting on a station, state and national basis. Full time ethnic community broadcasting stations, ethnic umbrella groups and the Community Broadcasting Foundation fund the award. It is open to stations, Members of Tongan Community Radio (TCR) in their communal garden. L-R: Pepe Afimeimo’unga, ‘Ailini Steen programming groups and individuals. (Youth Radio), Tau Ma’ake, Anne Ma’ake, Naomi Tupola (Youth Radio), Ross and Albert Beauchamp at foreground. In 2002, creative and innovative projects encouraging youth or emerging communities’ participation in ethnic the half-hour weekly bilingual program for the 150-200 community broadcasting at a station level were a Tongan residents in Adelaide. They are now learning the priority. The winners were announced at the NEMBC Tongan language. The winning project aims to: conference in November and in a surprise development two fantastic projects were each awarded the grant of extend cultural experiences of the young people $1500. The lucky winners are: involved in broadcasting establish networks amongst Tongan broadcasters, TONGAN COMMUNITY RADIO OF SA @ 5EBI The Tongan Community Radio (TCR) of SA was especially youth established in Oct 21 2001, as the first Tongan radio teach cultural ‘etiquettes’ of broadcasting to larger program in SA broadcasting in both Tongan and Tongan audiences (e.g in Sydney and Canberra) English. Since TCR’s inception, 5EBI has trained 3 provide opportunities for young broadcasters to gain adults and 3 youths in community broadcasting. The experience with different programming formats young people don’t speak Tongan; hence, they are TRIA XARAKIRI @ 3ZZZ – NO BORDERS rostered together with Tongan speaking adults to present Tria Xarakiri, the weekly Greek youth program on 3ZZZ, was a joint winner of the 2002 Tony Manicaros Award for their No Borders project. No Borders is a series of Tria Xarakiri – No Borders – team. ten minute radio documentaries on the concept of George Staurias, borders as it relates to refugees and other displaced Vasso Zangalis, Phillip Kalantzis- people. The programs aim to explore the politics behind Cope, Tony borders in terms of government power and the way Pappos, Michelle borders are constructed with regard to ethnicity and Myshka Lay, Vaya Pashos. politics. The producers want to examine the way the community is constructed, maintained and controlled through these boundaries and the rhetoric behind them.

Applications for the 2003 Tony Manicaros Award will be available from May 2003 on the website: www.nembc.org.au and in the next edition of The Ethnic Broadcaster.

The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 - 19 In the A Melbourne forum on young people SPOTLIGHT and the media.

In the Spotlight was a free, workshop including one-day event aimed at Claudine Ellis – 3ZZZ promoting increased Projects & Youth Officer, understanding of the media Nigel Slater – Manager of amongst young people, and 8CCC FM and delegates fostering dialogue between from the Youth Affairs media agencies and young Council and the City of people. Port Phillip.

It also provided an excellent Youth broadcaster Tamara opportunity to showcase the wealth Riqueleme joined Jiselle of independent media produced by Hanna in discussion on Jiselle Hanna and Tamara Riqueleme young people. various issues concerning youth involvement in ethnic were racism and language barriers, In the Spotlight attracted over 200 community radio. Tamara spoke of and training for young ethnic participants and was presented by her experiences in ethnic broadcasters. the Youth Affairs Council of Victoria, community broadcasting and also the Centre For Adolescent Health, Rebekah Pasqualini and Jiselle about the proposals encouraging Inner City Regional Youth spoke about the importance of youth participation that came out of Committee and the City of Port young people from emerging and the 2002 NEMBC Conference. Phillip. refugee communities getting access Jiselle gave a general introduction to the airwaves – in the context of The NEMBC presented a workshop to ethnic and multicultural the NEMBC’s New, Emerging and on youth broadcasting and ethnic community broadcasting and talked Refugee Communities Project. community radio, as well as having about young people in the context a display. Considering the interest of non-English language shown on the day and the success broadcasting. She also focused on of the NEMBC workshop it really Tamara Riqueleme is a Year 9 NEMBC initiatives to promote was an excellent opportunity to get student at Northcote High and co- increased youth participation, our message out there. presents a show called Mujeres including the Youth Committee’s Latino Americanas (Latin American The event was opened by the successful push for changes to CBF Women) on 3CR with Marisol Victorian Minister for Youth Affairs, funding guidelines for ethnic youth Salinas and Andrea Aguilera. the Hon. Jacinta Allan MP, and City programs. Other topics covered (Thursdays 6.30 – 7.30pm). of Port Phillip Mayor Darren Ray. In the morning there an interactive Jiselle Hanna has been a discussion – How does a media Community Broadcaster for three story develop? The afternoon years. She currently holds the session consisted of concurrent position of Secretary on 3CR’s workshops presented by Committee of Management. Jiselle is organisations such as Channel 31, the NEMBC Women’s Committee’s SYN FM, 3RRR, and of course the Victorian representative and is also NEMBC! involved with the CBAA’s National Youth Media Network. She is part of GET INVOLVED! GET HEARD! a team that produces Accent of Youth Broadcasting and Ethnic Women on 3CR – a program by and Community Radio – the NEMBC about women from culturally and workshop. Fifteen young people linguistically diverse backgrounds. and media workers attended the Tamara Riqueleme

20 - The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 NO more PAULINE HANSON stories

In 1998, Nicola Joseph was given the job of writing “Australian news for ethnic audiences”. In this article she explains how she decides what stories make it to END.

When the Ethnic News common sense and Digest started Pauline keeping one’s eyes open. Hanson’s One Nation Ethnic audiences might Party had just hit include people who run centre stage in the small businesses, media. It was both a university graduates and blessing and a curse students, families (some of for END. whom live overseas), factory workers and On one hand, Hanson had professionals. These forced the race issue to the “assumptions” mean that I forefront of an election have given high priority to campaign. There were stories about the GST and plenty of stories where immigration many cases have been working for small business, unfair dismissal and racism were discussed. On the the service since it started. laws and other small business’ other, the more I wrote about her, Sometimes the criticism might be issues. Also stories about the more complaints I got that we about accuracy, at other times it is immigration laws (for people looking were giving her far too much about an editorial decision. The at family reunion etc), workers’ attention. I could see their point, so debate by email can be interesting rights and education have also I compromised by reducing the and lively. been a major feature of END. number of stories which mentioned Stories which deal with issues of Hanson. Recently, one of the END There are many considerations language and cultural maintenance translators emailed me saying that behind the editorial decisions made as well as cultural diversity are they hoped her return to politics in for the Ethnic News Digest. The automatically considered for NSW did not mean she would be starting point has to be the inclusion. making a comeback to END. I took audience. Imagining and the point. reimagining ethnic audiences is a The priorities of the NEMBC also favorite pastime of the END have some influence on the choices My greatest critics are the END journalist. While the Australian of stories for END. At one stage in translators. It is not unusual for me Bureau of Statistics helps out with the service’s history, the NEMBC to be challenged by one of the some hard facts from time to time, Women’s Committee indicated their many dedicated translators who in this “imagining” is largely based on dissatisfaction with the lack of

The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 - 21 women’s stories in END. A fair Of course the other big factor in crisis for example, or issues like criticism, I think, of any news choosing END stories is the fact globalisation and refugees cannot service and one that remains that it is a national service, so be ignored. constantly on the list of END’s stories have to be of national Finally there are some issues which editorial considerations. In recent importance. At the same time, may not be obvious for inclusion in months issues of childcare and paid stories about local achievements or END bulletins but which I feel have maternity leave have featured issues can be of interest to ethnic their place. Indigenous issues, for regularly. It is also important that audiences nationally, especially if it example, are important for two wherever possible migrant women about a local project which has reasons. The first is that these are represented in END as being been successful. issues are part of the wider debate more than mothers, housewives The idea of END came about about race in Australia. The second and good cooks. Equally, the work because in most cases, is that the gap between ethnic of the NEMBC youth committee has broadcasters were only including communities and indigenous resulted in END being conscious of news from their home country in communities has often appeared the misrepresentation of ethnic their programs. END is used by wider than the gap between black youth in the news. As a result, most broadcasters as their local and white Australians. Once again stories about so-called ethnic gangs news content. At the same time in misrepresentation in the media probably don’t feature as much in some cases, the lines between means that newcomers to Australia END as they do in other news national and international issues often have the wrong impression of services. There is a real attempt to become blurred. The present Iraqi indigenous Australians. END tries to balance positives and negatives set this record straight. here.

News Broadcasters Use: The Ethnic News Digest

In 2002 a Survey on END was conducted. It was one of the largest surveys ever undertaken in community broadcasting, with around 250 responses from around Australia.

Amongst the survey findings we found that the Ethnic News Digest is:

a popular service used by around 360 programmers each week

used by around 50% of all programs that broadcast in the languages translated

used at around 50% of the 104 stations that broadcast in community languages

a valuable resource at rural & regional stations as well as being used at almost all fulltime metropolitan stations

used by a number of organisations, government departments and political parties.

22 - The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 The Ethnic News Digest is the NEMBC’s Australian News and Current Affairs service.

It is a web based news service with short Australian news stories written specifically for use by community radio broadcasters. Stories are updated three times a week News YOU and are translated into 16 different languages by a group of dedicated volunteer translators.

The Digest is free and is designed to help Can Use! broadcasters cover Australian news and current affairs stories on their programs, in addition to their coverage of local The Ethnic News Digest community and overseas news. As the stories are already written the service saves programmers valuable time in preparing news stories. Using the Digest also means broadcasters avoid copyright problems, which arise from using commercial sources.

The Digest is your news service, so make sure you use it! Go to www.nembc.org.au and click on the language you prefer to use. Download the stories and you’re ready to go to air!

END NEWS STORIES ARE CURRENTLY AVAILABLE IN: Amharic [Ethiopian] Dutch English Espanol (Spanish) TRANSLATORS Francais (French) Hravatzki (Croatian) WANTED!!! Indonesian Italiano We would like to make contact with translators in the following languages: Arabic / Bosnian / Cambodian Macedonian (Khmer) / Cantonese / Czech / Farsi / German / Greek / Polish Samoan / Somali / Thai / Tongan. Portuguese – News stories are again You need to have internet access and be able to available in Portuguese translate 4–5 short stories three times per week. Pycckom (Russian) Interested? Send an email to [email protected] or Serbian call Rebekah Pasqualini (END Co-ordinator) on (613) Sinhala (Sinhalese) 9486 9549. Tagalog [Filipino] The Ethnic News Digest is available at Turkish www.nembc.org.au. Vietnamese

The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 - 23 $$$$MONEY $$$$ Community Broadcasting Foundation News

ETHNIC YOUTH PARTICIPATION available from the CBF website, been difficult to recognise new, GRANTS www.cbf.com.au. Submissions emerging and refugee communities must be received by the CBF by that share the same language as The CBF is pleased to announce 9 April 2003. more established ethnic groups. For the launch of a new grant category example a program aimed at an to support ethnic youth community RECOGNISING SUPPORT FOR emerging Ecuadorian community in broadcasting. Developed in NEW, EMERGING AND REFUGEE Sydney could not be easily consultation with the NEMBC Youth COMMUNITIES distinguished from programs Committee, the “Youth The CBF wishes to ensure that it serving the general Spanish Participation” grants are to assist has accurate information regarding speaking community. projects that will encourage the level of support provided to involvement of ethnic youth in local It would be helpful if when new, emerging and refugee community radio stations. Radio completing the Program Details to communities involved in ethnic stations or incorporated ethnic accompany your station’s community broadcasting. As broadcasting groups (such as programming application (CBF information to date has only been umbrella groups) can apply for up Form E.4), applicants could indicate sought on the language content of to $1,500 to conduct activities or whether their program has as a funded programs rather than more projects such as concerts, open target audience a particular cultural specific audience information it has days, or promotional campaigns group. For example, if your program that will result in increased ethnic or multicultural youth programming and increased ethnic youth CBF Grant Deadlines participation in station decision Grant Program Round Due date making and planning structures and Ethnic Grants Rd 2, 2002/03 9 April 03 processes. Examples of suitable Ethnic Training Grants Rd 3, 2002/03 12 May 03 initiatives are described on the Indigenous Grants Rd 2, 2002/03 4 April 03 NEMBC website. RPH Grants Rd 2, 2002/03 11 April 03 OTHER ETHNIC GRANT General Grants Rd 1, 2003/04 26 September 03 OPPORTUNITIES NTN Network Subsidy Rd 1, 2003/04 11 July 2003 Other grant categories in the Ethnic AMRAP Grants Rd 2, 2002/03 To be confirmed Grants round, which has just opened, include Ethnic Program DDN Infrastructure 2002/03 To be confirmed Grants and Development Grants for CAN Infrastructure 2002/03 Any time

New Program Groups, New, Satellite Equipment 2002/03 Any time Emerging & Refugee Communities, For more information about CBF grants, including guidelines, application and Innovation projects. Guidelines forms and grant reporting refer to the CBF website www.cbf.com.au/ and application forms for Ethnic grants.htm. Grants Round 2 - 2002/03 are

24 - The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 is in Arabic, is it aimed primarily at listeners from Syria? This level of detail will assist the CBF to gauge the level of its support for new and emerging communities.

CBF GRANT ACQUITTAL INDUSTRY NEWS: New REQUIREMENTS Codes of Practice Please remember that if your station is applying for any current Source: CBAA | Date: 14-11-02 / www.cbonline.org.au CBF grants all overdue Grant Reports, audited annual financial The Australian Broadcasting Authority has registered revised codes of statements and Statement by practice for the community broadcasting sector. The revised codes Auditor to the CBF must be lodged were developed by the sector as facilitated by the Community with the CBF before any new grants Broadcasting Association of Australia (CBAA). They replace those can be processed. You should originally registered by the ABA in January 1995. They reflect the contact the CBF if you are unable to outcome of a review of the codes conducted by the CBAA during meet the reporting deadline or 2002. The codes have been modified to take account of changes in require advice regarding any aspect community attitudes, the concerns of complainants to the ABA and the of the CBF’s grant application and views of the community broadcasting sector. The codes apply to all acquittal processes. community broadcasting licensees.

ABA Chairman Professor David Flint said that the revised codes would further enhance the effectiveness of the co-regulatory scheme.

”The CBAA has worked to ensure that the codes continue to address concerns about access to and participation in the community broadcasting sector, and best practice in complaint handling and the resolution of disputes within stations.”

For information about the review process and a summary of feedback provided see the CBAA website www.cbaa.org.au.

Community Radio Stations licensed since 1 December 2002 Licence Date Name State Locality Frequency

01-May-03 Northern Midlands Community Broadcasters Inc. TAS Northern Midlands 95.7 FM

04-Apr-03 South East Christian Broadcasters Inc. SA Mt. Gambier 104.9 FM

01-Mar-03 Yass Community Radio Association Incorporated NSW Yass 100.3 FM

01-Mar-03 Heritage Radio Association WA Armadale 107.3 FM

01-Mar-03 BOD FM Inc. TAS Break O’Day 93.7 FM

01-Mar-03 Radio VLU2-FM Announcers Assoc. Inc. WA Christmas Island 102.1 FM

01-Mar-03 Kalamunda Community Radio Inc. WA Kalamunda 102.5 FM

01-Mar-03 Port Hedlands Indigenous Media Aboriginal Corp. WA Port Hedland 101.3 FM

09-Feb-03 Riverina Christian Radio Inc. NSW Wagga Wagga 107.9 FM

02-Feb-03 Tasman Community Broadcasters Inc. TAS Tasman Peninsula 97.7 FM

01-Feb-03 Portuguese Cultural & Recreational Centre WA Inc. WA Fremantle 91.3 FM

01-Feb-03 Gosford Christian Broadcasters Ltd. NSW Gosford 94.9 FM

23-Dec-02 Tasmanian University Broadcasters Inc. TAS South Hobart 99.3 FM

06-Dec-02 Great Southern FM C.B.A. Inc. SA Victor Harbour 90.1 FM

06-Dec-02 Encounter FM Community Broadcasters Assoc. Inc. SA Fleurieu Peninsula 89.3 FM

The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 - 25 STATION NEWS DOLCE 3 The sweetest sounds of summer

Movimento FM again hosted the biggest upcoming Italian Party kicking off the New Year. This year ‘Collezione Elio’ Movimento FM’s Dolce harbour cruise was on Shirt range. There the stunning “Lady Rose” – the biggest and were giveaways and newest cruising catamaran on Sydney a competition with Harbour. It had licensed bars, a cocktail deck, great prizes. large dance floor and wrap around decks on all The night was a levels with 360 degrees views. great successful Friday 10th of January saw a huge crowd of over 400 sell-out event and people board the boat at the Star City casino wharf. huge thank-yous The Movimento crew were swept off their feet serving must go out to all pizza, gelato and dolci. that attended as well Anthony “Mr.C” Colombo as the Movimento DJs Mr C, Stefano, Cheeky Steve and DJ ROQ kept the (Movimento FM / NEMBC Youth FM crew and Committee). crowd happy playing all the best in R’n’B, Dance, Euro sponsors for making Dance, the greatest and latest Italian dance tracks and the night possible. the good old tarantella! Plus our very own Cicciu was MC for the night. Movimento FM is an Italian community radio program on Radio 2000 on 98.5FM. It organises, supports, promotes We were fortunate and participates in various community activities and high enough to have profile events, acting as ambassadors of Italian language, two special guests culture and goodwill. Movimento FM is produced and on board: Bobo managed by a dedicated team of young Italo-Australian from the SBS volunteers with several years of experience in radio show Fat Pizza broadcasting, radio production and other business skills. entertaining the crowd with his Movimento FM goes to air every Monday to Thursday at stand up comedy 5.00pm and Saturdays at 6.00pm Radio 2000 98.5. You as well as Elio, the can email us on [email protected]. Cathy Giannini Pizza’s Bobo and friends. designer of the New Focus at 3ZZZ 3ZZZ is looking forward to a very Young people and women will be 3ZZZ will soon be moving into its final active year. Two new staff the focus of two new committees at phase of studio redevelopment. Last appointments have been made. the station. An inaugural meeting of year saw the completion of a brand Claudine Ellis has been employed interested people saw great support new studio as well as refurbishment full time as a youth development for the idea of exploring ways in of two others. This year a new officer and Dave Pithouse will be which both women and young production space will be fitted out working part time in radio production. people would be more actively specifically for voice recordings and Both Claudine and Dave were first involved in all aspects of the Studio 3 will be refurbished in line employed under a Traineeship station. with the other studios. The scheme at the station for 12 months. Initially separate committees for completion of this project will bring Staff and volunteers are delighted women and young people will be uniformity to all studios, hopefully that they will be staying on. formed with a view of making making life a little easier for all recommendations to the board. broadcasters and trainers.

26 - The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 AROUND AUSTRALIA

Young broadcasters at 1CMS

Young people have been week, in English. The other four showing increasing interest in programs broadcast in their the radio, and some respective languages, usually once communities already have a week. The Tongan, Sinhalese and special youth programs the Serbian programs are all running. connected to the adult language programs for the same languages. We have now six youth programs, The newest one is YALA, Lebanese Tutti Frutti, French youth, Serbian youth talking Arabic. This program youth, Tongan youth, Sinhalese Laura Aoun and Nabil Adhami – is the only program in Arabic. youth and YALA. Three of them 1CMS ArabicYouth Program have been broadcasting for quite Ragnheidur Olafsdottir – secretary of the Ethnic Broadcasting Council, some time, even for years, like Tutti Canberra Frutti and the French youngsters. Tutti Frutti is an independent youth program broadcasting three times a

Vice-Regal

On Wednesday 19 February 6EBA-FM hosted the Governor of the State of WA Lt. General John Sanderson AC and Mrs. Lorraine Sanderson. They were guests of the women’s program Connections produced and presented by Diane Popovich, Samar Naseem and Elaine Pearman. This program has been running for five years and covers many issues of

concern to women. (Wednesdays 10:30 a.m. – Governor of WA visits 6EBA-FM. L—R: Alessandro Lutero 1:00 p.m.) (President MRTA of WA Inc), Mrs Joyce Lutero, His Excellency Lt General John Sanderson AC, Mrs Lorraine One of the segments is Crime Stoppers, produced in Sanderson, Elaine Pearman and Samar Naseem. partnership with the Crime Stoppers Unit of the WA Police. The Vice-Regal couple were invited to visit Mrs. Sanderson talked about her patronage of around the station at a Crime Stoppers award presentation 100 community charities and groups and promised to last October. participate in the program, official duties permitting. The Governor talked about his life before becoming The Vice- Regal couple met with members of the the WA Vice-Regal representative, his patronage of MRTA of WA Inc. Council, (license holders of 6EBA- Crime Stoppers, as well as outlining the importance FM), their wives and Paul Pearman, Station Manager of ethnic media as a lifeline to so many in the thanked the Connections team for their efforts. community from non-English speaking backgrounds. Diane Popovich (6EBA)

The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 - 27 STATION NEWS Way Out West

upgraded studios. Dr. Gallop also presented lifetime memberships of our association, (MRTA of WA Inc.), to Mr. Alessandro Lutero, (MRTA President) and Ms. Diane Popovich, (MRTA Treasurer). This was in honour of the “exemplary service to the Association and constant commitment to Multicultural broadcasting in Perth WA” they have given over 26 and 22 years respectively.

In February 2003 a new 5KW solid state transmitter replaced our original transmitter which was used for standby purposes. On 6 March there was the official launch of a State Government Office of Multicultural Interests one and a MRTA Council and Station Manager - 6EBA half-hour radio program which will promote the benefits of multiculturalism to mainstream Western Australia. WA ‘World Radio’ 6EBA-FM is Perth’s only fulltime Premier, Dr. Gallop, will participate with a monthly talkback community multi-lingual radio station. It segment. Emerging communities not already on-air may broadcasts in approximately 50 languages and have access to the airwaves through program segments. has been on air in its own right for 12 years. A new Constitution will shortly be presented to The past year has been one of immense activity and members for their approval. It includes a complete change, starting in March 2002 with the upgrading of the review of all procedures, rules and regulations to studios with new 16 channel desks, a computer based ensure the station continues to grow and comply with recording / editing suite, and a music delivery system. All all relevant legislation. broadcasters have been trained in the new equipment. 2003–2004 looks like being another year of change and development. Happy broadcasting! In June the Premier of WA and Minister for Multicultural Paul Pearman Interests, Hon. Dr. Geoff Gallop, officially opened the 6EBA Station Manager Ok let’s be Austrayan

Radio 4EB at the Australia Day Parade Brisbane’s Australia Day Parade. Street, South Bank. While driving Suddenly, I find myself with a This time it is all about going on the through the parade, a great number ‘strange’ flag in my hands and I road and not on air! People running of people stare at the van, some look astonished at the 4EB CD they immediately felt part of the great around with traditional Polish suddenly find in their hands. Yes Australian celebration. It was a long costumes, barbecues, smile please today is the Day, you time ago when Captain Arthur advertisements, and home-made- have to celebrate… and Radio 4EB Phillip and the First Fleet raised the flyers. A nice Finnish girl is wearing is here to represent the cultural the 4EB cap too: great for the heat flag on Australia’s first European diversity of Australia. This is the and the sun! settlement at Sydney Cove: 26 message. This is Australian present January 1788. Among street performers, marching past and future, just keep smiling 215 years later on a quiet Sunday bands and community groups in the and try to contribute to the process afternoon a group of people from procession, Radio 4EB finds its way of building a culture. And on the Radio 4EB, headed by Robert across Victoria Bridge and along whole you know it is a lot of fun! Taylor, are preparing to take part in Grey Street, finishing up at Ernest Rosa Merlini

28 - The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 AROUND AUSTRALIA Lucky escape for 1CMS

The bush fires in Canberra on to create a nice spot for people to 18 January also affected enjoy their food while listening to Canberra Multicultural Service our programs – a rest from the (1CMS) radio station. noisy main street.

It was pure luck that the house itself The CMS radio broadcasts 32 did not burn down, as the house languages each week, and music FREE CD!!!!!! next door did, together with 529 from at least as many different other houses in Canberra. The countries. Some language UNAUSTRALIAN radio station was closed down for communities broadcast up to eight 3 Disk CD-Rom nearly a month after the fire, hours a week, while others do one because of technical issues, and to two hours a week. Compilation was finally reopened on Ragnheidur Olafsdottir – secretary 16 February. of the Ethnic Broadcasting Council (EBC), Canberra. Even though we did not have access to the studios in the beginning of February, we decided to participate in the National Multicultural Festival in Canberra on 8 February, broadcasting from a van in Civic, close to the centre of the festival.The location enabled us UNAUSTRALIAN features a variety of Australian musical talent. From huge bands like Killing Heidi, Living 4EB End and Something for Kate to unsigned bands such as Boat People. There’s the beats World Circuitry CD orientated tunes of Sonic Animation and Regurgitator and the laid back World Circuitry – From the Woodford Folk Festival 2002/03 has been sounds of Alex Lloyd and Jimmy released. It’s a limited edition CD distributed to stations across Australia to promote the featured artists who have either brought themselves or their Little. Rock out to bands like Even, music from around the world and now reside and perform throughout Bodyjar and 28 Days. Australia. Red Hot Green Black is a charity Rick Heritage, who broadcasts 4EB’s World Music Programme Global organisation promoting awareness Grooves, (Wednesday nights from 10.15pm), has worked with the artists on of environment and indigenous the CD to produce a quality line up of artists that performed at the recent issues. They’re keen for ethnic Woodford Folk Festival. community broadcasters to access exciting Australian artists on There are 13 different artists on the compilation and the CD covers a UNAUSTRALIAN, and will post variety of styles. One important point about the Woodford Folk Festival is copies of the CD, anywhere in the variety of artists that perform each year and we have tried to capture Australia – FREE OF CHARGE. the feel of the festival. For FREE copies of The compilation CD was funded by AMRAP and is for promotional use UNAUSTRALIAN please contact: only so it will not be available in record stores. Please contact 4EB FM on Scott Alderson at (07) 3240 8600 or via email: [email protected] for more information. [email protected].

The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 - 29 Message to Ethnic and Multicultural Broadcasters

Parliament House, Canberra ACT 2600 The Hon. Gary Hardgrave MP Minister for Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs Telephone: (02) 6277 7890 Facsimile: (02) 6273 0434

Message to Ethnic and Multicultural Broadcasters

I am writing to you in your role as a member of Australia’s ethnic and community media. As such, you provide an important service, not only to your direct audience but to the communities they are part of and the whole country. Thank you for your ongoing contribution to Australian multiculturalism

Recent events, especially the terrorist attacks in America in September 2001 and in Bali in October 2002, have changed the way we see both ourselves and our world. Security issues and Australia’s role in the wider world have both emerged as issues of concern for us all.

As you are no doubt aware, the Government is doing everything it can to make us safe at home. It is also co-operating in international anti-terrorism initiatives. But where personal security is an issue and where tragedy has already touched many lives, emotions will run high. There have already been acts of violence and vilification directed at fellow Australians and their communities.

Freedom of speech is a powerful right, and an integral part of Australian democracy. However, there is a corresponding responsibility, especially for the media, not to abuse this power by inciting hatred or violence. This responsibility is perhaps even greater for ethnic and community media organisations, which are often uniquely trusted by their communities to summarise and interpret events in Australia and across the world.

In this role, you are important community leaders. You are ideally placed to moderate and resolve the anger that may emerge in times of stress, and to direct productive debate on the issues we need to focus on. I hope you will accept this challenge: to use your hearts and minds, as well as your influence, to rise to the defence of our community harmony and contribute productively to our future.

As a simple example, let me draw your attention to Harmony Day, which is celebrated on 21 March every year. It provides an opportunity for Australians to think about our community’s success as a multicultural society, to re-commit to continuing respect, goodwill and understanding between Australians of all backgrounds, and to say no to racism. You may want to consider how you can promote Harmony Day in the lead up to March 2003. For more information, see www.immi.gov.au/multicultural/harmonyday.

As well as your role within Australia, ethnic and community media often have an ambassadorial role in depicting Australia for overseas audiences. It may be easy to be heard if the message focuses on and amplifies negative pictures of life in Australia, such as injustices or dangers to your communities. I hope you will resist the temptation to exaggerate such stories and remember also to tell the good news stories about our considerable democratic freedoms and the resilience of community harmony.

We are more than separate communities, coincidentally sharing the same geographical location. We are Australians together, sharing a future together. I ask you to respect the spirit of inclusiveness that underwrites Australian multiculturalism, and to reflect in your work a belonging and loyalty to not just your own communities, but the wider Australian community too.

I commend you on your work as a voice of multicultural Australia. In these challenging times, I look forward to your continuing contribution to protecting the society that we have built together, and to attaining all that the future promises.

Yours sincerely

Gary Hardgrave

30 - The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 We respond to the

Minister 28 January 2003 Hon. Gary Hardgrave MP In January the Minister Minister for Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs for Citizenship and Parliament House Multicultural Affairs, Mr Canberra ACT 2600 Gary Hardgrave, wrote to ethnic broadcasters Dear Gary around Australia urging Thank you for your letter of January 8th and for your kind words about the work of the NEMBC. Also them to avoid racial thank you for speaking to our national conference recently. We will publish your letter in the next vilification on the edition of our newsletter, The Ethnic Broadcaster, together with this response. airwaves and also to No doubt you have seen media reports of the NEMBC’s response to your letter to ethnic community avoid painting a negative broadcasters. We have concerns about some aspects of your letter, which I would like to elaborate picture of Australia. here. Mr Hardgrave asked the All Australians have an obligation to avoid incitement to hatred or violence. We are concerned that NEMBC to pass his letter on rather than promoting community harmony, singling out ethnic community broadcasters may have the to our members, and we are opposite effect. We fear that those with prejudices against some ethnic communities may interpret doing so by publishing it in your letter (or more likely, media reports of your letter) as confirming those prejudices. The Ethnic Broadcaster, People of non-English speaking background take Australian citizenship, and its responsibilities, overleaf. seriously. As you know a much higher proportion of migrants from non-English speaking countries While we have agreed to take out Australian citizenship than migrants from England and New Zealand. It worries us then that distribute the Minister’s letter the public may get the impression that the government believes that migrants of non English speaking to our members, we have background are not properly fulfilling their responsibilities as citizens. concerns about some aspects I know that you have been personally supportive of the Australian Ethnic Radio Training Project of it. We expressed those (AERTP). I would like to remind you of the critical role this project has played in fostering better concerns in a reply to Mr community relations. The Broadcast Law and Standards module of the AERTP program, in addition to Hardgrave, which we also covering legal issues such as defamation and contempt of court, deals explicitly and extensively with publish here. In summary, we the issues of racial vilification and the CBAA Code of Practice. This unit deals in detail with the CBAA think Mr Hardgrave was ill- Code of Practice which provides, inter alia that : advised to single out ethnic • Community stations must “Incorporate programming policies which oppose and attempt to break community broadcasters, down prejudice on the basis of race, sex, nationality, religion, disability, ethnic background, age especially when their record or sexual preference” for promoting tolerance and • Broadcasters “shall not broadcast material which may stereotype, incite, vilify, or perpetuate harmony is much better than hatred against, or attempt to demean any person or group on the basis of ethnicity, nationality, that of the commercial sector. race, gender, sexual preference, religion, age or physical or mental disability.” It is the single most subscribed module of the 28 topics covered by the program, and more than 80% of the 3000 AERTP participants have successfully completed the Broadcast Law and Standards unit. Training of ethnic and multicultural broadcasters through the AERTP has been one of the NEMBC’s most effective ways of opposing incitement to racial hatred in our sector. For your information a copy of the training support notes used by the accredited trainers who have delivered this course to well over 2000 broadcasters are enclosed. The government now has an excellent opportunity to give practical effect to its professed concern about incitement to hatred in the media by agreeing to continue funding the Australian Ethnic Radio Training Project.

Yours sincerely George Zangalis President

The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 - 31 The First Casualty of War Wartime Reporting and Ethnic Community Broadcasting

Facts do not cease as a problem to be to exist because managed and various they are ignored. forms of censorship are —Aldous Huxley applied. Free and open public discussion is Radio is a powerful restricted and dissent medium and in times of war provides one of the becomes ‘unpatriotic’. only forums available Journalist and for ordinary people to academic, Professor express their opinions. As veteran access. The access it offers to Jacqueline Sharkey, spoke to Radio ordinary people to participate in the Australian journalist John Pilger National on the difficulty of accurate dissemination of ideas and commented recently, “The quality of reporting in an age of spin-doctoring information and to access the power debate amongst the public has been and tight controls over the media: high… but the media has not really that the media has in our society. 1 “...the Pentagon has learned that the contributed to the debate”. Apart This article looks at wartime reporting more it controls information, and the from ‘Letters to the Editor’ and the and the task broadcasters face over valuable space for discussion radio the coming months in recognising the more it prevents independent access provides, Pilger criticised the media’s propaganda generated by all sides of to information on the battlefield, the level of debate surrounding the Iraq the conflict. It offers a guide to finding more likely the Pentagon and the crisis as “poor, because so much information from a multitude of White House are to maintain public space and time is channelling and alternative sources to present support for a military conflict…….it echoing the official viewpoint.” comprehensive and balanced isn’t just the real time information programs. that’s the problem, it’s history itself The primarily non-commercial that’s the problem here, because if nature of community broadcasting “The first casualty when war comes, reporters are not allowed to even means that unlike most mainstream is truth,” said American Senator observe activities on the battlefield, media, ethnic community Hiram Johnson in 1917, and this even again if they can’t report them broadcasters are in the more seems truer now than ever as right away, then there’s no chance powerful position of informing their conflict rages in Iraq. In times of war, particularly unpopular wars, that the public will ever have an communities without the same most governments seek to control objective assessment on these pressure to conform to the wishes public opinion by the careful military operations.”2 of advertisers and owners. The manipulation of information history of ethnic community radio Journalists in many countries, provided by the media. has been one of comparative especially those working under openness – to differing ideas and In wartime the media is often dictatorships in countries such as Iraq viewpoints – and most importantly regarded, especially by the military, are censored, often persecuted and 1 ‘Pilger criticises war reporting in Newspapers and TV’ Radioinfo 31/01/03 www.radioinfo.com.au/newsitem.php?id=822 32 - The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 sometimes murdered. Despite the precision guidance mechanisms make the viewers throw up on the popular expectation that functioning and the rest of them were so-called breakfast table.”5 democracies require a strongly dumb bombs. 72,000 tonnes of In late February, 500 journalists independent ‘watchdog’ press, in them, and no-one really knew what began the pre-war training process Western societies also there are those things had hit.”3 that the U.S. Department of efforts to stifle political debate and to WHERE ARE THE AUSTRALIAN Defence calls ‘embedding for life’. limit the war correspondent’s role as TROOPS? During the war they’re ‘embedded’ a seeker of truth. Australian reporters are in military units and according to the POOL COVERAGE AND experiencing difficulties in accessing U.S. follow them “all the way to the CENSORSHIP BY ACCESS Australian troops. Since troops left victory parade”. 6 Media commentators warn that due for the Gulf in late January there has During the Gulf War the U.S. military to military secrecy and government been very little coverage in the called this process the ‘buddy- spin doctoring, reporters are being Australian media, yet there has been buddy’ relationship. It entails prevented from portraying a full and extensive coverage both here and courses in chemical and biological accurate picture of the conflict in overseas of the operations of warfare and other military training for Iraq. The main problem, as in the American and British troops. journalists going to “the front”. At the 1991 Gulf War, is obtaining real ‘on Considering the general opposition same time CNN allowed Pentagon the ground’ access. of the Australian public, “trainees” into their newsroom. demonstrated in recent peace Most journalists covering the Iraq marches around the country, to war Foreign journalists in Iraq work under war are restricted to the ‘pool’ at and the commitment of Australian strict supervision from Iraqi Coalition Command Central in troops, this seems to be part of a intelligence with constant threats of Qatar. During the Gulf War political, not a military agenda. expulsion, restricted freedom of independent access to the movement and access to information. battlefield by the media was The Minister for Defence, Senator Rejecting the relative safety of discouraged also. Reporters were Hill, claims he supports media ‘embedding’, many journalists in Iraq restricted to Riadh, Saudi Arabia. access to Australian troops. Yet the are braving the dangers of warfare, They were provided with footage news that a law firm, Clayton Utz, providing us with the only and fed information during daily was hired by the Department of independent Western footage from military briefings. The image and Defence to draw up strict inside Iraq. Non-embedded story starved news media then used agreements for journalists to sign journalists will be essential when the this material, generally without prior to receiving accreditation to story shifts to that of post-war Iraq. independent verification. cover the war is an ominous sign. Arab media organisations such as Al- Jazeera also provide independent As Professor Sharkey recalls “what The military then told the Australian news from inside Iraq. you got was a lot of reporting that media “all journalists intending to cover coalition operations must really was nothing more than kind SELF-CENSORSHIP AND seek accreditation from U.S. of a show that the Pentagon would ‘SCRIPT APPROVAL’ Central Command HQ in the Gulf” 4 put on for the day. There was very Journalists practice forms of self- little access to any kind of actual ‘EMBEDDED’ JOURNALISTS censorship essential to maintaining operations. And what this did of Journalists from corporate media a career in the mainstream media course was allow the Pentagon in networks across the world have and know that asking the ‘right’ their daily briefings in Washington flocked to Kuwait to join ‘the pool’ questions is as important as and in Riad, to show these things and become ‘embedded’ in the U.S. learning never to ask the ‘wrong’ like the gun camera footage that military – supposedly to see the war ones. Government and military showed these unerring military at first hand. Robert Fisk writes that briefings are usually scripted in strikes with these smart bombs, and they are likely to get “the kind of terms of both the questions asked it wasn’t until after the war that the coverage that every reporter and and answers given. So called press learned that only 8.8% of the every general wants: a few facts, ‘Gatekeepers’ (editors, owners) in bombs dropped on Iraq actually had good pictures and nothing dirty to the media determine what is news 2 Radio National – The Media Report 4/10/01 – www.abc.net.au/rn/talks/8.30/mediarpt/stories/s401589.htm 3 Radio National – The Media Report 4 Where are our troops?’ – ABC’s Media Watch 24/02/03 – www.abc.net.au/mediawatch/transcripts/s791714.htm 5 ‘War Journalists Should Not Be Cosying Up To The Military’ Robert Fisk 21/01/03 – www.zmag.org/content/ showarticle.cfm?SectionID=15&ItemID=2895 6 ‘Reporters await ‘embedding’ for US eye-view of Iraq’ ABC Radio’s ‘The World Today’ 24/02/03 – www.abc.net.au/worldtoday/ s791319.htm The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 - 33 and all journalists know what their revolutionary and inexpensive tool abide by Australian broadcasting employers expect of them. for broadcasters to utilise. laws. When providing current affairs and news they have the added CNN, having introduced a new anti- It is just as important for community responsibility, like all journalists, to journalistic system of ‘Script Approval’ broadcasters to research and draw be fair and unbiased, to research in time for the invasion of Iraq, has material from widely varying sources thoroughly and to present many taken ‘editorial control’ to new as it is to question the official line, different opinions and points of heights. This policy means that all and the depth of knowledge the view. In wartime these rights and journalists working outside the U.S. Internet offers is mind-boggling. The responsibilities become especially must submit their scripts (or copy) to propaganda push becomes important as tensions and fears rise head office in Atlanta for approval.7 problematic when broadcasters and within the community. media consumers can easily access Trevor Bormann, a former Gulf War a multitude of viewpoints. The power It is important overseas news and reporter now reporting in Baghdad for of the Internet lies in its immediacy current affairs are not just recycled the ABC’s Foreign Correspondent, for ethnic radio listeners. This is and accessibility. understands the propaganda push where the NEMBC’s Ethnic News better than most. As he told Radio We are living in a unique time in Digest is an indispensable service National “Clearly the challenge for the history – a time where people need as it’s designed to help broadcasters Pentagon and indeed the not exist as isolated and powerless cover Australian news and current government of the United States is to spectators informed by a corporate affairs stories on their programs, in win the media war, because this time mass media. A time where they can addition to their coverage of local they can’t claim the high moral seek out knowledge and connect with community and overseas news. ground, public opinion seems to be people around the world on a scale Australia is physically an island but against them in this war. So that will unimaginable even 10 years ago. A culturally and intellectually will make their challenge ever more time where ordinary Australians can never be. Ethnic broadcasters are important to win over hearts and express a multitude of views and uniquely placed both to assist their minds and the media is the device by encourage open debate within their communities in maintaining contact which they will do that.”8 communities by accessing the with their countries of origin and in thriving medium of community radio. INDEPENDENT MEDIA AND THE cultivating worldwide links with SEARCH FOR ALTERNATIVE Adam Porter, founder of YearZero, alternative media organisations. TRUTHS a ‘disobedient’ Internet based UK Over the coming months coverage There is a one fundamental current affairs quarterly, envisions of the Iraq conflict and its aftermath difference between the 1991 Gulf “…an alternative news network that need not only focus on conflict and War and today and that is the will eventually rival traditional violence – wartime broadcasting phenomenal rise of the Internet media. “It’s really patronising to should also be about peace. The accompanied by a worldwide assume, as the mainstream media massive peace movement growing explosion of alternative and often does,” he says, “that ordinary around the world relies on the work independent news sources. Ethnic people don’t talk about Iraq, asylum of ordinary people – to talk about it community radio is an integral part or economics down the pub. You in their communities and in the of this proliferation of alternative can go all around the world and find media. Interview people in your voices and information sources. similar things and it’s the web that’s community about their work towards bringing them together.”10 peace, and give space in your Ethnic broadcasters in Australia will programs to ideas and opinions that be well aware of the possibilities the CELEBRATING DIVERSITY AND counter war. Internet offers to users who wish to PROMOTING PEACE cast “their net far wider as they Ethnic broadcasters have the right, Above all stay true to the proud search for explanation and along with every other Australian, to history within ethnic broadcasting of context”.9 When sourcing content freedom of speech – to question furthering multiculturalism and for news and current affairs, and discuss openly government promoting understanding and entertainment and music for their policies, both domestic and foreign. harmony between communities. programmes, the Internet is a They also have the responsibility to Rebekah Pasqualini

7 ‘Censored: A New CNN System Of ‘Script Approval’ Suggests The Pentagon Will Have Nothing To Worry About’ By Robert Fisk 25/ 02/03 – www.zmag.org/content/showarticle.cfm?SectionID=21&ItemID=3122 8 ‘Caught in the war “pool”’ Radio National – ‘The Media Report’ 6/2/03 – www.abc.net.au/rn/talks/8.30/mediarpt/stories/ s777173.htm 9 ‘Spin caught in a web trap’ The Guardian 17/02/03 – http://media.guardian.co.uk/iraqandthemedia/story/ 0,12823,897330,00.html 10 ‘Spin caught in a web trap’ The Guardian 34 - The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 ONLINE ALTERNATIVE MEDIA Italian – www.zmag.org/Italy/ Non-Commercial Radio around SITES index.htm North America and the World – Turkish/Kurdish – www.zmag.org/ www.gumbopages.com/other- Afrikan Frontline Network – Turkey/index.htm radio.html www.afrikan.net/ Japanese – www.hct.zaq.ne.jp/ The Pacifica Network – Al Jazeera – www.al-jazeera.com/ akubi/ZNetJ.html www.pacifica.org/ (Arabic) – http:// Radio 4 All – www.radio4all.org/ english.aljazeera.net (English) Czech/Slovak – www.zmag.org/ (huge list of links to alternative radio Slovak/index.htm Association For Progressive stations worldwide) Communication – www.apc.org/ French – www.ao.qc.ca/ english/index.htm (English & traductions/znet/tableznet.html INTERNATIONAL ALTERNATIVE Spanish) Bulgarian – www.zmag.org/ RADIO SHOWS / STATIONS Disinfopedia – the encyclopedia of Bulgaria/index.htm propaganda – Swedish – http:// Black Liberation Radio – http:// www.disinfopedia.org/wiki.phtml hem2.passagen.se/cyberc/ burn.ucsd.edu/~blr/ Electronic Intifada – parecon/index.htm BZU OutLoud: Berzeit University www.electronicintifada.net Radio (Palestine) – http:// INDY MEDIA SITES The Indy Press Association Site – home.birzeit.edu/outloud/ Radio Campus Paris – www.indypress.org/ Belgium, Europe – http:// www.radiocampusparis.org/ International Progressive belgium.indymedia.org/ (French) Publications Network – Congo, Africa – http:// Radio Free World (Idyllwild, www.ippn.ws/index.cfm congo.indymedia.org/ (French & California) – iraqjournal.org – English) www.radiofreeworld.com/ www.iraqjournal.org/ France, Europe – http:// Radio Havana Cuba – Media Channel – france.indymedia.org/ www.radiohc.org/ (English, www.mediachannel.org/ Israel – www.indymedia.org.il/ French, Portuguese, Spanish) Reporters Sans Frontiers – Italy, Europe – http:// Radio Netherlands – www.rnw.nl/ www.rsf.fr/ (French, English & italy.indymedia.org/ cgi-bin/home/enhome.pl (Dutch, Spanish) Melbourne, AUS – English, French, Indonesian, YearZero – www.yearzero.org www.melbourne.indymedia.org/ Portuguese, Spanish) ZNet – ZNET is a huge website Mexico – http:// Radio Z Nuernberg – www.radio- updated many times daily and mexico.indymedia.org/ (Spanish) z.net/ (German) designed to convey information and Prague, Europe – http:// TUC Radio – www.tucradio.org/ provide community. ZNet offers prague.indymedia.org/ about.html information through an extensive Vancouver Cooperative Radio – daily commentary program featuring Quebec – http:// www.vcn.bc.ca/cfro/ writers such as Robert Fisk, George quebec.indymedia.org/ WBAI (New York City Pacifica Monbiot, John Pilger and Noam Sydney, AUS – http:// Radio) – www.wbai.org/ Chomsky, interviews, diverse watch sydney.indymedia.org/ areas and sub-sites, archives and MEDIA SITES WITH AUDIO FILES links. NON-COMMERCIAL & ZNET – www.zmag.org/ COMMUNITY RADIO INFO / CounterSpin (FAIR) – weluser.htm RESOURCE SITES www.webactive.com/cspin/ Hightower Radio – ZNET Alternative Media Resources National Ethnic & Multicultural www.webactive.com/hightower/ – www.zmag.org/ Broadcasters Council – altmediaresources.htm www.nembc.org.au Pacifica Network News – www.webactive.com/webactive/ ZNET is translated into the following The World Association of pacifica/pnn.html languages: Community Broadcasters (AMARC) Women’s International News Spanish – www.zmag.org/ – www.amarc.org (English, Gathering Service (WINGS) – Spanish/index.htm French, Spanish) www.wings.org/

The Ethnic Broadcaster, Autumn 2003 - 35 Introducing YOUR SAY! – an exciting addition to The Ethnic Broadcaster. Your Say! is a forum for our readers, so take advantage of it and send us your letters for publication in the next edition. We also welcome contributions to The Ethnic Broadcaster, especially from NEMBC members. Advertise in The Ethnic Broadcaster – please contact us for rates. For more information please contact Rebekah Pasqualini on 03 9486 9549 or via email: [email protected].

CHECK OUT THE NEMBC WEBSITE: www.nembc.org.au

NEMBC Executive

President: George Zangalis, VIC Vice-President: Victor Marillanca, ACT Secretary: Marisol Salinas, VIC Treasurer: Joanne Fettke, QLD Members: Hans Degenhart, SA Osai Faiva, NSW Peter Ho, QLD Alex Lutero, WA Ramkumar Konesparamoorthy, NT Karina Ceron, TAS NEMBC Staff Executive Officer: Darce Cassidy – [email protected] Administrative Officer: Rebekah Pasqualini – [email protected] New, Emerging & Refugee Communities Outreach, Training and Broadcasting Project Officer: Indira Narayan – [email protected] AERTP Coordinator: Helen Bowman – [email protected] Bookkeeper: Denis West Ethnic News Digest Coordinator: Rebekah Pasqualini – [email protected] Ethnic News Digest Journalist: Nicola Joseph – [email protected]

Broadcaster Editorial Review Committee: Osai Faiva George Zangalis Editorial Team: Darce Cassidy Rebekah Pasqualini

The Ethnic Broadcaster Coordinator: Rebekah Pasqualini Newsletter Design and Layout: Michael Nolan Newsletter Printers: M & T Printers Co.

The Ethnic Broadcaster is the quarterly journal of the National Ethnic and Multicultural Broadcasters’ Council (NEMBC).

The views expressed in The Ethnic Broadcaster are not necessarily the views of the NEMBC.

Ethnic NEMBC Office and Contact Details 1st Floor, 156 George Street Fitzroy VIC 3065 Postal Address: PO Box 1144 Collingwood VIC 3066 Phone: 03 9486 9549 Fax: 03 9486 9499 Email: [email protected] Website: www.nembc.org.au The