CBX NEWS FROM THE COMMUNITY BROADCASTING ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA September - October 1994 FROM THE PRESIDENT Firstly, a welcome to the CBAA's new Technical Consultant, David Sice. David hails from Launceston and will be well known to many CBAA members as a previous national committee member and community broadcaster with 7LTN. David is currently sorting out technical priorities for the sector (see his report elsewhere in this issue) but is happy to assist members with any problems they may be facing, or to provide information where he can. David can be contacted on 003 31 7778 (both phone and fax) or write to PO Box 1184, Launceston, TAS 7250. By the time you receive this issue of CBX the community broadcasting 'summit' will be over. Having just read a number of submissions from state, regional and special interest community broadcasting groups, it appears there are a number of areas of agreement, for example, the need to re-define community broadcasting in light of new technologies, but certainly no consensus at this early stage on what sort of structure is most appropriate for the peak body. The Summit feature in this edition of CBX outlines the major issues and areas of debate as a forerunner to a more comprehensive face-to-face session at the CBAA conference in December in Canberra. MEAA There's little to report on developments with regards the log of claims served by the Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance on community stations in May. Not surprisingly, there have been a range of views expressed as to whether or not an award for community radio workers is appropriate. This is one instance where it is deemed to be inappropriate for the CBAA to take a position. Instead, we will endeavour to represent the expressed views and opinions of members who have asked us to represent them before the Industrial Relations Commission and in any subsequent negotiations with the MEAA. National Committee member Paul Strickland has indicated that he is more than happy to talk to any member station abou t the industrial relations process and the implications of an award being adopted (see his article inside). You can contact Paul on 051221225. TRAINING You may be interested to hear that TAFE in NSW is close to submitting a Community Radio Broadcasting Course for accreditation. A number of community radio workers including Dorin Hart from 2BBB, Joan Killorn from 2GLF and myself recently spent a full day with officers of TAFE assessing the course structure and content. TAFE informs us that once the course is accredited, it will be available to TAFE colleges around Australia. Refer to the feature on Training for more details. CONFERENCE You'll find details of the 22nd CBAA Conference elsewhere in this issue of CBX. I have recently written to the Department of Communications and the Arts requesting that the Opening Address include an explanation of the portfolio merger and the implications for community broadcasting, particularly in light of the fact that these bureaucracies have never seen eye to eye. Also attending the conference will be Kunda Dixit of Inter Press Service, an international news and features agency with offices in 98 countries. INTERNATIONAL Community radio in Australia applauds the recent decision of Britains Radio Authority to reserve a section of the FM spectrum for community and low-power radio services from January 1996. The authority's decision marked a victory for the Sheffield based Community Radio Association and more than 100 community radio groups around the country who have been battling for years to have community radio legitimised and recognised as a medium which will increase the choices available to listeners. Predicably, Britain's tabloid Sun newspaper decried the Radio Authority's decision to give "spare frequencies to tinpot local stations". Congratulations to all our UK colleagues from tinpot Aussie community radio stations and aspirants. (See CRA member Clive Woodman's article on his impressions of Australian community radio on page 15). MEMBERSHIP You will be aware from correspondence from the CBAA's General Manager, Mike Thompson, that we are tightening up on membership. Part of the financial problems experienced last year were a result of the CBAA 'carrying' non-financial members and we are not going to repeat this mistake. The CBAA will be doing its utmost to make membership meaningful and beneficial, through negotiating group discounts with copyright agencies to the provision of timely information and strong representation at government and regulatory levels. We hope the new quarterly payments system will make it easier for you to budget your membership fees. Kaye Blackman REGIONAL ROUNDUP Queensland The QCBAs recent Annual Conference was attended by representatives of a dozen stations. One of the aims of the QCBA is to increase the awareness of the Queensland community broadcasting sector among Government departments, advertising agencies and the general public. So we invited a representative of the major media agency AIS MEDIA to address the conference. He detailed the type of information that advertising agencies would need about the stations in the sector in order to place business with us. This information along with a copy of SACBAs excellent Active Radio presentation kit will be used to help compile the Queensland sector kit. A senior Project Officer from the Queensland Office of the Arts and Cultural Development also attended the conference. She highlighted current areas of possible funding for community broadcasters. These were the Capital Cultural Subsidy Scheme and Arts Project Funding. Two Queensland stations (4MBS Classic FM, 4ZZZ-FM) have already received generous funding through the Capital Cultural Subsidy Scheme to help them purchase premises. She also indicated that the State government will be conducting a review of funding for community broadcasting in Queensland later this year. They have become very aware of the growth of the sector. Marketing o f the sector was discussed at the conference at some length. It was proposed to proceed with the idea used very successfully by 4MBS Classic FM, a full page feature in the States major daily newspaper. With all participating stations sharing the cost it becomes an affordable exercise. The cost for each station could be subsidised by station sponsors. 4MBS Classic FM has used the full page feature for the last four years inconjunction with their major subscriber drive each year. Other arts organisations share the cost. Another idea that came out of the conference was for the QCBA to investigate setting up a bulk purchasing scheme for Queensland stations. It could result in savings on tape, carts, CD players etc. If any other State CBAs or other groups have tried this wed like to hear from you - contact QCBA Treasurer Gary Thorpe at 4MBS Classic FM on 07 847 1717. Our thanks to the CBF for the funding for conference and training workshops Gary Thorpe, 4MBS South Australia Over the last three months SACBA has been consolidating the Group Radio Marketing Bureau. This is a network sales bureau which promotes community radio to the corporate secto r as a worthwhile investment. So far we have printed a number of presentation kits which are used to inform prospective clients about community radio in general and what the individual stations are about. The kit has been professionally designed and has already improved our image as a more professional sector. We'll be happy to share any information about what is involved in this type of venture. Another project we were involved in was promoting Community Broadcasting Week. Did anyone else do anything to celebrate the 27th June to 1st July? We had 10,000 brochures printed on "What is Community Radio". During the week we had a daily outside broadcast in the middle of Rundle Mall - Adelaide's most popular city shopping area. Five different stations broadcast live throughout the week and we handed out all the brochures. It was a very successful event. Lots of people asked questions about community radio and went away with a well designed piece of written information. The rest of the time seems to have been spent in policy-making hell. We've had to write position papers for the State Government telling them why it's beneficial to keep funding community broadcasters, and we've had to write position papers for the Summit which is/was held to discuss future directions of the peak bodies that represent community broadcasters. By the time you read this, the Summit will be over and hopefully you'll be hearing a lot about the discussions that took place to get you ready to discuss it all at the annual Conference at the end of the year. SACBA is holding its annual Conference on 27th/28th August in Adelaide. This conference is a combined discussion/ training conference so that both volunteers and management benefit from it. If you're wondering how we can afford to do things like print 10,000 brochures - it's because of the generous support of the South Australian Government which grants $130,000 a year to the radio sector. It's done through the Department for the Arts and Cultural Development. Laine Langridge 5UV Victoria The CBAV Executive is conducting a residential weekend seminar, conference style, in early October this year. The dates are Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th October, with the Friday evening available for informal get-togethers. The conference follows the publication of CBAV's Training Needs Survey Report and features sessions on the topics most sought by Victorian community stations. Member stations and aspirant groups are now asked to secure their registration for this important event. The conference topics cover the main areas shown on the survey: Saturday Promotion and marketing is an all-day component Other options are Promoting Australian Music or New Technologies, each occupying a half-day Sunday Membership and Subscription is a full day component. Other options are Community Accountability or Volunteer Co-ordination, each occupying a half-day For details contact John Worcester on phone 03 853 2755 or fax 03 853 7204 Northern NSW CBA Our next training seminar will be 14-16th October at Yamba. Hosts 2TLCFM (whose station is a reconstructed lighthouse building) are now working on the details. A main focus will be training methods compared between stations and possible new initiatives, including the new NSW TAFE Certificate in Community Radio Broadcasting SUMMIT. We are, of course, extremely disappointed that NNSW was not selected as one of the three regions to attend the Summit. We had seen ourselves as ideally placed to represent the interests of the smaller, non-metropolitan, generalist community radio stations, especially as our chosen rep comes from one of the smaller rural stations, 2BBB FM. However, with 7 regions and only 3 places allowed at the summit, inevitably 4 of us had to miss out. One thing to emerge during the lead up and selection process to the summit was the lack of information each of the regions has about the other. A suggestion that an extra day (or part day) at the beginning of the national conference be set aside for communications between the regional groups seems excellent. NNSW is in the unique position of being a "sub-state" body. We formed some six years ago as a result of demonstrated need - distance from the capital and difficulty in attending meetings there, plus different issues from what was then a dominantly city station membership. Our group has thrived ever since. COMMISERATIONS to 2NVR, Radio Nambucca, whose transmitter was recently struck by lightning. Luckily it was only small fuses. Thanks to Rohde & Shwartz for quick repairs. Dorin Hart 2BBB CORRECTION: The item in the last CBX should have should have read that the NNSWCBA membership stands at 16 NNSW licensed stations, 1 TV, 8 aspirants, 1 Aboriginal Broadcasting group & now 4ZZZ are members. Will Narrowcasating Destroy Community Broadcasting or can we make it work for us? As General Manager of the CBAA I am asked from time to time by people with some knowledge of the current Australian broadcasting environment whether I think community broadcasting has a future. They ask because they know we are under great threat and they wonder whether as a sector we have the flexibility to respond to the challenge. The sector is under challenge as a result of increased costs, increased competition, and no guaranteed affordable access to new technology. As a result of our very modest resources, generally limited entrepreneurial skills, and sometimes awkward collective decision-making procedures, community broadcasting is very vulnerable in the face of the plethora of new commercial services soon to cascade down upon us. As we all know, it can take much time and effort to weld together a community group and provide people with enough resources and expertise to operate a community broadcasting service. An entrepreneur with a bag of money can buy a licence over the counter and have a competitive service up and running within a few months, or even a few weeks. So generally private entrepreneurs have the jump on community broadcasters because they are out there actively looking for commercial opportunities, while we are there trying to establish or operate a volunteer-based non-profit community service with all the day-to-day difficulties that entails. But while we may not immediately see the dangers and opportunities the new technology and the new licensing regime will bring, the policy makers certainly do. To take an example, the Department of Communications published a booklet in 1993 explaining the reforms that could be expected as a result of the new Broadcasting Services Act. It was called Broadcasting Reform - A New Approach to Regulation (DOTAC 23 January, 1993). One of the results of the reforms would be easy access to inexpensive new delivery systems as an alternative to the use of the broadcast band. The results for community broadcasting, said the Department, would be as follows, "This expected trend towards using alternative delivery mechanisms is likely to be accompanied by a movement away from the community licensing regime. The one major advantage of being a community broadcaster is the access it gives to free spectrum within the broadcasting services bands. If technological developments drive the price of access to alternative delivery means down, the advantage of being a community broadcaster diminishes. An open narrowcaster has far more freedom in its financing, programming and staffing than a community broadcaster, and if the price of delivery access becomes negligible, a rapid movement from community broadcasting to the more open class licence regime can be expected." Well, where does that leave us? All trading in our community broadcasting licences for narrowcast licences, which are so much more flexible? They are certainly more flexible, particularly for those looking to circumvent the tiresome restrictions imposed by community broadcasting licences for the purpose of protecting effective community participation and the non-profit nature of the sector. We have recently had the experience of aspirant community radio broadcasters licensed as open narrowcasters taking full advantage of their temporary licences and advertising for extensive periods on air, though they knew full well that their actions were completely at odds with the spirit of community broadcasting and the ABAs test licensing process. What will happen if community broadcasting licensees of the future are not subject to any of the constraints the ABA is now belatedly applying to the temporary licence system? Those restraints are a necessary discipline on community broadcasters and have allowed for the development of the strong sector we have built up over the past 20 years. If community broadcasters obtain licences where there are no constraints on advertising and no requirements to retain their non-profit status, many will certainly find the venal temptations of the commercial world extraordinarily attractive. I suspect that in such cases disputes within stations about access to the airwaves would soon be eclipsed by those centreing on the division of the financial spoils. It is already the case in some areas that the more entrepreneurial volunteers on community radio stations have gone off and secured narrowcast licences for themselves, under which they broadcast programs developed on community radio but now broadcast in competition with their former colleagues. This is a phenomenon very likely to increase in the future as narrowcasters secure the removal of the ABAs present restrictions on their transmitter power. This is even more of a slap in the face for a number of aspirant groups which have been waiting for years for a community radio licence. Some are now finding that their volunteers who have gained on-air experience with the aspirant have got themselves a narrowcast licence and begun broadcasting their own service even before the aspirant group itself has got to air. Like the CBAA, the Federation of Australian Radio Broadcasters (FARB) has some concerns with the potential for narrowcasting to make inroads into the traditional markets of commercial radio. But it would appear that FARB is encouraging the more innovative of their members to embrace the new licensing regime and expand the services they provide by establishing narrowcast services. If you cant beat them, join them! Ironically, it is advice community broadcasters with an eye to survival might do well to heed. The secret is to ensure effective isolation between a community broadcasting service, affectively licensed as such, and a commercial support activity operated by the community broadcaster. If the primary community service is operated under a narrowcast licence the temptation to push the limits out to what the narrowcast licence allows is almost overwhelming. However, if the community broadcaster operates a separate business, quarantined off from the community broadcasting service, but with the proceeds of the narrowcast operation going to support the primary service, the results could be altogether positive. The advantage for community stations in operating narrowcast services is that they are already in the business; they have the broadcasting infrastructure and the know-how. Where they are deficient, in many cases, is that they are not geared to participate in entrepreneurial activities - they are not driven by the single-minded desire to maximise profits. It is certainly easier for the commercial broadcaster or the local entrepreneur with his or her eye totally fixed on the dollar to grasp the opportunities presented by narrowcasting than it is for the local community station. But we live in a changing culture where even the most worthy charity has had to bring business-like methods to its operations, and to establish retail outlets and other business enterprises to subsidise falling grants from governments and other traditional sources of income. Some forward-looking community broadcasters are moving to take advantage of these kinds of opportunities, and I suspect they are ones with the best chances of survival. Community broadcasting is no different from other non-government, not-for-profit organisations. We may need to meet the challenge to our continued existence by taking up new business opportunities and engaging in commercial money-making activities to support our stations, but we cant let our primary service become polluted by unworthy motives so that we betray the principles of community access and reject the non-profit ideals on which community broadcasting has been built. Michael Thompson. General Manager WORLD NEWS The Berlin Connection.... What a learning experience - trying to link live on radio with a bunch of media students in Berlin! As ComRadSat receiving stations know, the CBAA recently co-ordinated a group of broadcasters based in and around Sydney to do just that. Kendall Murray, a 13 year old student from Davidson High on Sydneys northern beaches, was one of the people involved. This is part of her account of the experience. On Tuesday night, July 5th, I had my first experience at a radio station. We were attempting a radio broadcast to Germany organised by students from the Technical University of Berlin. I did not know what to expect but everyone was extremely nice and welcomed me warmly. We arrived at the CBAA at 8:30pm and rehearsed the program several times. I was to read an Australian story called The Spotted Dog. Other items included a poem spoken in German, a debate about the year 2000 Olympics in Sydney and Australian music. We moved to another radio station at around 10:30pm. At this point I was very nervous. I became even more nervous after the delay in the hook up. Unfortunately the students in Germany experienced troubles linking up to Australia so in the end we were unable to broadcast over there... ...It may have been late at night but I had a lot of fun doing the radio show, I just hope that other school children might be able to have the same experience I had. We still broadcast an abridged (and maybe a little confused?) version of our program live on ComRadSat and sent a full version of the program to Germany which is being played on Berlin radio. So in a slightly unexpected way, we did get to Germany, and enjoyed ourselves in the process. I hope the sector will continue to forge international links and try what has never been tried before! My special thanks for everyones enthusiasm and support, including those from The German Hour (Ulladulla, NSW), Radio Northern Beaches, 2RRR, 2OOO, 2RES, 2RDJ and 2SER. Kendall Murray Kathryn Dinh, CBAA SOLDIERS OCCUPY RADIO STATION IN ECUADOR ECUADOR, JUNE 1994 - At 3.30 in the morning of Wednesday June 22, 1994, soldiers occupied and closed Radio Latacunga, the station of the Cotopaxi provincial diocese in Ecuador. The soldiers entered the radio station through the roof, broke glass doors leading to the offices and arrested Gonzalo Granda and Norma Arroyo, who were on duty at the station. Another station, Escuelas Radioficinas de Ecuador (ERPE), in Riobamba was also occupied at 11.30 on the Tuesday evening and programmed by the soldiers. AMARCs Solidarity Network is requesting that faxes protesting the occupation of Radio Latacunga and ERPE and the arrest of the employees of Radio Latacunga be sent to President Duran Balln at fax 593-2-580735. Faxes in solidarity with Radio Latacunga and its workers can be sent to 593-3-802239. TOWARDS 2000 Community broadcasting, at its best, meets the human right of citizens to both receive and impart information. Community broadcasting is a means of empowerment, especially for disenfranchised communities. It can also be a tool of education, community development and social change. If we are to look to the future we must do so with our eyes and ears open, with a realistic assessment of the external environment and with clarity in our own strategy for development. We need to be able to adapt to changing circumstance, but there are specific goals I believe we can identify. At the local level we must build partnerships, alliances and most importantly popular support for our objectives. We must all be effective lobbyists and publicists for community broadcasting. Taken from a speech by the Director of UK Community Radio Assoc. International Comm. B'casting Festival. from Plenty Valley Radio Newsletter ACCENT OF WOMEN: MULTICULTURAL WOMENS PROGRAM Melbourne Community Radio station 3CR has been funded to develop and broadcast a series of programs produced and presented by women of diverse cultural backgrounds in English. We will broadcast sixteen half hour segments on 3CR and on the national community radio satellite ComRadSat. These half hour programs will go to air once a week from September to the end of December. CELEBRATE OUR DIVERSITY! The content of these programs will be flexible. We hope to present a wide variety of issues relevant to womens communities nationally. The programs could incorporate current issues such as enterprise bargaining, long running issues such as cultural identity, access to health and services, international political issues, arts, music and oral histories or stories. Women could produce programs individually or in groups. Programs could have a theme or a variety of segments in a magazine format. FIRST OF ITS KIND. GET INVOLVED! Women can be involved on any level. Whatever your skills, join our collective and help get the program to air! Or, you may wish to produce a once-off piece for the first short series. We need researchers and access to information from your communities! Contributions from interstate and regional Victoria are very important to us. Send your piece direct to 3CR on reel or cassette! Training for interested women will be developed specifically for the project, and run over July and August. Women outside Melbourne can make use of the Ethnic Radio Training Project in their area. If you have queries or ideas, please contact Anna Lopata, at 3CR, phone: 03 419 8377. Postal address: C/- 3CR, Po Box 1277, Collingwood, Victoria, 3066. TECHNOLOGY MATTERS!! by David Slice (CBAA Technical Consultant) People involved in broadcasting, and especially community broadcasting, are first and foremost communicators. They are observers of the current political, social and cultural landscape and consider that they can contribute to texture and fabric of their respective communities. Why else would they be involved? The means by which these contributions can be most effectively made is often the subject of intense debate and political manouverings. Most usually these debates involve new technologies or new ways of administering old technologies to provide for different outcomes. Either way, you can be sure that the debates will be filled with all sorts of esoteric technical jargon which often clouds the real issues which are to do with how the technology can be best applied to ensure the greater good, arent they? TECHNICAL CONSULTANT Given that statement of principles, you can see the need for a person with a combination of political and communication skills, together with a technological perspective, is important to ensure that the needs and concerns of community broadcasters as a whole arent overlooked or even trampled upon by the ever changing administration of technology. My recent appointment to the role of Technical Consultant to the CBAA recognises and addresses this need. The role has been ably performed for many years by Chris Burnat, and more recently by Chris Holliday. For this the Community Sector owes a debt of gratitude. BEING A TASMANIAN Being from Tasmania ensures that I have well developed skills in many areas, and am extremely sensitive to all sorts of jokes. Much as it may amaze many people, in many ways Tasmanias physical isolation and mountainous terrain have put it into the forefront in the use of radio and communications technology. Social and political progressiveness is another matter! (and it isnt called Bass Straight for nothing you know!) Being a Tasmanian has also brought into sharp focus the important and influential role that broadcasting has in a non-metropolitan communities. How absolutely important it is for the social consciousness of Australia to permeate every last nook and cranny of the country. Yet how much more powerful it is that these messages be reinforced at a local level by local broadcasters. ACTIVITIES Since being appointed there has been a flurry of activity, some reactive, mostly pro-active. Quite a few stations, particularly regional, have been referred by the CBAA staff seeking some advice or to have a chat about a particular technical question involving their station. There has been some work within the CBAA itself, and interaction with the other sectors, industry bodies and governmental bodies with a view to maintaining effective and positive relationships. Apart from these general activities there are a number of specific issues that are on the agenda. All of these issues potentially affect community broadcasters. SMA Most stations would be aware of the Spectrum Management Agency (SMA), it concerns itself with the administration of the radio spectrum. This involves frequency planning and allocation, interference assessment, and, of course, licence fee setting and collection. Unless your station has a radio link between its studio and transmitter (STL), you may not have had much to do with the SMA directly. The ABA has actually been delegated the authority by the SMA to manage those parts of the spectrum which are designated for use by broadcasters. The plot thickens. The SMA has been assessing the way in which it currently categorises and sets fees for apparatus licences. It considers that the current arrangements are inevitable and overly complex. As you might be guessing by now, it is considering adopting a model which has an element of market force built in. The CBAA provided some input to this process earlier in the year and has more recently reinforced its position. The CBAA has foreshadowed that STLs operated by community and public broadcasters ought to be eligible for consideration as public or community services. This is not to say that no fees will apply; given that stations are currently paying the standard fee (varying depending upon bandwidth), it seems hard to argue against some sort of fee. The alternative to an STL would be a landline which would attract no concession. Therefore, a fee commensurate with the SMAs reasonable costs in administration would seem fair.However, it would be wholly inappropriate for there to be any further fee composed by way of a spectrum scarcity tax. It may be that an additional tax is appropriate to some other users of the spectrum and it is conceivable that the SMA could inadvertently give priority to such users. Thus it follows that there also needs to be guaranteed access for public and community broadcasters where they require to operate an STL in order to fulfil their broadcasting obligations. Out of this position arises the need to define an eligible public or community service. The CBAA is likely to have to do much more ground-work on this matter. It seems that the scope of the inquiry has also widened and may be calling into question the licence fee to operate a stations broadcast transmitter. It may come as a surprise to some stations that the SMA currently levies a nominal $20 apparatus licence fee per broadcast transmitter. It should be no surprise that this is likely to be reviewed. Again the CBAA is likely to have to do much ground-work to ensure a satisfactory outcome. The SMA is soon to release a draft model which will indicate in a quantifiable way how licence fees could possibly be re-structured. No doubt this will make interesting reading! AUSTEL A number of stations have expressed concern or confusion over the need to provide a repetitive 1,400 Hz tone to a telephone caller when the call is being recorded or broadcast. As the situation currently stands, there is no need for such pips to be broadcast under any applicable regulations or standards. However, there is still a need for the pips to be sent to the telephone caller - this is an AUSTEL requirement, ostensibly designed to ensure that the caller is aware and consents to the process of being recorded and broadcast. This requirement arises from AUSTELs Technical Standard, number TS002. As it happens this Standard is under review and the CBAA has submitted that: 1. The provision of pips is not an effective method of ensuring the privacy or informed consent of the distant party. 2. That there is no effective method to ensure compliance, especially after the fact, as it is desirable and usual that the tones be filtered from the audio before it is broadcast or recorded. 3. That it be recognised that the equipment available to interface to the telephone network without the tone requirement is widely available and considerably more economically priced. This is especially important to community broadcasters. 4. That, as an alternative proposal to ensure privacy protection, a Code of Practice be adopted which ensures that prior to the commencement of any recording or broadcast of material using the telephone network, it be made clear with the caller that the call is to be recorded and may be broadcast and that they agree to proceed on this understanding. It is hoped that this approach will find effect in the review of TS002 currently in progress. If this proves problematic, the CBAA, on behalf of its members, is likely to press for an immediate exemption from the existing AUSTEL requirements. DAB Digital Audio Broadcasting looks set to be the future for broadcasters. At least thats the message to come from a recent Conference to discuss DAB issues hosted by the ABC in Sydney. The Conference was well attended and gave voice to a wide cross-section of views on DAB. These varied from DAB being characterised as a lemon and likely to end up as a skid mark on the information superhighway to unrestrained praise of the systems potential to deliver quality audio and with built in flexibility. The place for community broadcasting was discussed and the clear message given by several speakers (including the CBAA) that any DAB future for Australia must include and provide for the delivery of community broadcasting services, and in a way that is affordable by even the poorest of stations. There are debates over the efficacy of competing systems from the USA.The Eureka system was under demonstration in Sydney using a vertically polarised antenna mounted atop the UTS. A small bus fitted with headphones treated all comers to an hour long trip during which reception was compared to ABC-FM from Gore Hill. Reception of the DAB service was completely and totally unimpaired. Cynics may suggest that the route was very carefully planned! There is no doubting, however, that the Eureka system is able to substantially overcome the evil effects of multipath reception and therefore to deliver good quality audio on the move. The concept of localism is critical to the introduction of DAB. This issue relates mainly to the way in which the services are planned, and impact upon transmitter site selection, baseband delivery systems, and the location of the coding or modulation equipment. Developmental work is being done in this regard, largely in the UK and the CBAA is aiming to keep fully abreast of these developments and contribute where appropriate. There is no doubting that DAB will be introduced in some form to Australia and that it, and other housebound services provided via that much hyped highway, will ultimately have a substantial impact on the role and viability of community broadcasting. The challenge is to be a part of the process and to help mould a future which recognises the validity of the various broadcasting services - including community broadcasting. TECHNICAL STANDARDS A paper is being developed which may assist stations awareness of the need to meet technical and safety standards concerning the operation of their technical equipment. It has been suggested that the paper should only canvass VHF-FM transmission technology. Your feedback on this matter would be welcomed. FURTHER INFORMATION There are other issues which are currently under consideration but Ive run out of space! Further detailed information is available on most of these issues, and comment is welcomed. Contact the office of the CBAA. PORTFOLIO REPORT: Aspirants and Finance by John Evans Since the last CBX the main issues facing aspirants seem to be whats happening with the planning process, and whats happening to temporary transmission licences? LAPs FAPs AND ALL THAT JAZZ I have spoken with the Minister for Communications and the ABA concerning the issue of new licences, and each time it seems that they are almost imminent. I have been told that some problems existed with the planning team s, but that now the ABA has four teams fully set up and in full operation. One of the teams spent a considerable amount of time developing a methodology by which the hearings and planning process is to be undertaken.. That process has now been adopted by all four groups and it is expected that the process will be smoother and faster for zones 2 to 5. I am also informed that the schedule of all LAPs being completed by June 1996 is still expected to be achieved. So just keep on hanging in there. I might suggest that you keep pressure on all local MPs etc to ensure that they are aware of the situation, and they keep the ABA on its toes. TEST TRANSMISSIONS You all, no doubt, are aware of the inquiry into the issue of test transmissions for aspirant community broadcasters. At this time no further advice has been received from the ABA in response to the submissions on this issue of test transmission for aspirant community broadcasters. I can only repeat my suggestion in the last CBX that we aspirants stick to the rules governing licensed community stations. This will demonstrate our commitment to the sector, our commitment to the community we serve and our commitment to riding the airwaves of those who use our sector for gain and profit. I believe that we are in the best position to determine when, why, how long and how often our test transmission should take place and that I believe also meets the ABAs hands off approach. What they do have is an obligation to ensure that only genuine community broadcasters gain access to the test permits. Aspirant stations should not bear the brunt of the abuse by a few cowboys. As usual, I am available for consultation, discussion, ear bashing or whatever. If you have concerns, problems, ideas etc, please write to me at PO Box 1420, Campbelltown NSW 2560, or via the CBAA. My phone number during business hours is 046 203 295. Good broadcasting and success in test transmissions. FINANCE UPDATE Another financial year has just been completed, and although final figures are not yet available, I am pleased to report that the CBAA will finish the year on the right side of the ledger. It has been a difficult year for the CBAA and, of course, all our members. Financially we have steadied the ship, and no longer face a threat of insolvency. However we still have a long way to go. Any organisation such as ours requires to have sufficient funds to enable operations to be carried out the whole year, even though we have periods of relatively little income. At this stage we have achieved this goal, and generally are a lot more comfortable than six months ago. I will table a detailed Annual Report at the AGM. I would caution those who believe we are out of the crisis. We have achieved the position we are in by reducing staff and service levels whilst we reorganised and recovered. Now we have returned our staffing and services to the levels required by the sector, we can no longer depend upon increasing cash reserves. In the coming year we expect to finish with a profit of only a few thousand dollars. Given our dependence on membership fees, it would only require a small change in membership levels for that profit to disappear and a loss result. To those of you who may feel that we are treating you harshly by insisting on payment within due dates, all I can say is that we do not intend repeating past mistakes. We will continue to supply services to our members, but we simply cannot afford to carry those who wish to become a free rider. As Finance Director, I would be derelict in my duty if I allowed the past to repeat itself and put our organisation back in danger of collapse. When the final figures for 1993/4 are to hand please bear in mind that the profit figure will be high, but remember that most of the profit will be the result of our creditors writing off 70% of our debt to them, and stations foregoing sponsorship payments. Remember that last year liabilities exceeded assets by some $150,000 plus. We are not in a position of having assets exceeding liabilities, and can be said to be capable of ongoing trading. The coming year will be much harder, as we continue to match our resources against our commitment to the sector. Please be an active part of the sector, support the CBAA by paying your accounts as they fall due. After all the only people that will be hurt in the long run are your very selves. BEAMING UP COMRADSAT THIS IS THE GOOD NEWS Public Radio News will go to air on 5th September via ComRadSat. Public Radio News is a joint effort between the University of Queenslands Journalism Department, which currently provides news and current affairs to 4 Brisbane stations, and Public Radio News, Melbourne (of Undercurrents). The plan is to share the packaging and broadcasting of news between Melbourne and Brisbane each day. Melbourne will broadcast bulletins on-the-hour from 7am to 11am and Brisbane will take over at midday through to 5pm. Undercurrents will go to air at the usual time of 5.30pm. All community stations will be invited to contribute story material via ISDN, fax or phone. It doesnt matter what your technology is. PRN will take the contribution somehow. Its your chance to get your voice on the national network. The Journalism Program at Curtin University in Perth, for instance, will be contributing an extensive news service on ISDN and fax. They have a close relationship with the big community broadcaster 6NR. We hope Charles Sturt University will help out too. They also have community radio connections. Then theres 5UV in Adelaide, who have provided a text service in the past. At this stage it looks as though theres a strong ethnic and Aboriginal broadcasting contribution in the pipeline. The philosophy of Public Radio News is to provide a real alternative to ABC and commercial news and to tailor the product to the different needs of community radio. Both the Melbourne and Brisbane studios have their own news teams, and take various wire services, but the aim is to gather as much local news as possible and to have high level of local participation. Think national, act local. Keep the local alive! Now comes the hard part - payment. (see box). The two people behind the service, Tony Douglas (PRN) and Chris Law-Davies (UQ), have calculated that it will break even after two years if 30 stations take the service.The monthly charge for the service covers the cost of journalists, wire services and extra equipment needed to provide a truly national service. It was hoped PRN could also afford a Canberra correspondent, but this idea will have to be shelved for at least the first year. In the tradition of community radio, much of the infrastructure has been provided by PRN and the University of Queensland. If you want to take the service call PRN on 03 417 7304. If you want to contribute, phone either office: Brisbane newsroom: Tel: 07 365 1618 Fax: 07 365 3373; Melbourne newsroom: Tel: 03 416 3563 Fax: 03 419 9669 NEWS BULLETIN SERVICE National news bulletins of 3 minutes duration hourly from 7.00am till 5.00pm weekdays, with 5 minute bulletins at 8.00am, noon and 5.30pm - just before Undercurrents. MONTHLY charge Non CBAA members: add $40/month $220 city stations $200 suburban/regional $140 for 6 bulletins or less (minimum charge). SPECIALS ON SATELLITE U.N. INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR THE ELDERLY (Fri. Sept. 30): A week of specials from around the sector leading up to this global event, including hopefully a live special on the 30th at 11am. OPEN MIND SPECIAL ON CHILDHOOD (Sat. Oct. 29, 1030-1200 AEST): A live special from 2SER Sydney offering a critical and provocative look at childhood in Australia. Other recent specials have included * Radio Ed (OTEN, educational), * National Child Protection Week (from NAPCAN) * the Koala Koalition (2BAY) * Role of the Family (2UNE). And watch for more soon from the Changi Songbook veterans - soon to tour nationally. NEW REGULAR PROGRAMS ON THE CBAA CHANNEL (times AEST) ACCENT OF WOMEN (see feature) 3CR Weds.1104-1131 (Women of NESB) AUSSIE COUNTRY 2BFM Fri. 2130-2359 (Oz country music) BLAST FROM THE PAST 2BFM Fri. 1900-2129 (50s/60s music) COMMUNITY COOKBOOK 3ZZZ Tues. 1632-1659 (Ethnic cuisine) COUNTRY MUSIC (SUNDAY) 2RDJ Sun. 1000-1259 (Country music) CRASH BANG THEORY TNO Fri. 0000-0159 (World dance) DANCETERIA 2BFM Thurs.2000-2159 (New dance) FILM BUFFS FORECAST 3RRR Mon.1304-1359 (Movies) LOCKED IN 4ZZZ TUES.1530-1559 (Prisons) NATIONAL ROCK AND BLUES SHOW 2RDJ Sun. 0000-0259 (Rock & blues) OPEN SECRET (may change name) 6RTR Thurs.1530-1557 (Spirituality) PUBLIC RADIO NEWS SERVICE (see feature) Weekday hourly bulletins, 0700 - 1700 2RDJ BREAKFAST 2RDJ Sat. 0700-0759, Sun. 0700-0959 WORLDWIDE 3ZZZ Tues. 1230-1257 (Multicult. news) RADIO TRAINING PROGRAMS: THREE APPROACHES Developing a training program for volunteers is a difficult and time consuming task. It is especially daunting when the implications are so clear; what you put in is what you'll end up hearing on your station. In other words you have to live with the effectiveness (or otherwise) of your training program long after the course is complete and the graduates given their slice of time. How do you effectively 'mould' these fresh faced, bright eyed new volunteers into good journalists, DJ's and station workers? Even more difficult, how do you inject the jaded volunteer with a fresh perspective? Many stations have met the challenge and developed a comprehensive training program that meets the specific needs of their volunteers and station charter. Other stations, especially aspi rants, are still tackling the issue. Whatever stage you are at, the following may be of interest in terms of the varie ty and opportunity offered by these three training programs. This is not the definitive guide to training, but rather an attempt to outline some current activity in the sector. If you can contribute additional ideas based on your own station training course, please forward your contributions to "CBX". In addition to your comments and feedback, the next edition of CBX will feature information on Training and Accreditation and networking with universities. TAFE The NSW TAFE Commissions Arts & Media Industry Training Division (ITD) has recently completed development of its course, the Certificate in Community Radio Broadcasting. The course will be available to community broadcasters through NSW TAFE colleges throughout NSW from the beginning of Semester I 1995 and will be placed on the national curriculum for other States to access via the local TAFE. Successful completion of the course will lead to the award of Certificate in Community Radio Broadcasting. Development of the course was funded jointly by the Education and Training Foundation and the NSW TAFE Commissions Arts & Media ITD. It has been developed in consultation with representatives of the community broadcast sector over the last 12 months and was approved by an Industry Review Panel largely comprised of members of the community broadcast sector in July 1994. The course covers both theoretical and practical aspects of community radio broadcasting. It is made up of eight, competency based modules and totals 270 hours. Students will gain a broad practical knowledge of the radio industry that will facilitate the development of their interest and skills in community radio and related industries. Assessment for each module will vary but the range of assessment tasks includes written and oral tests, written assignments, role plays, practical tests and practical assignments. Recognition of prior learning is integral to the course so students who have experience in aspects of community radio may seek exemption from modules that cover areas in which they are already competent. The course can be offered full-time or part-time, or in a format that best suits the needs of individual stations and their members. Stations may request provision of individual modules for their members but students must successfully complete the requirements of all modules to gain the award of Certificate in Community Radio. The Arts and Media ITD intend to develop an Advanced Certificate course which will allow specialisation into areas such as production and management should need and demand warrant it. Successful implementation of the course will require effective liaison between community radio stations and their local TAFE Institutes. Community stations wishing to have the course conducted for their members should contact their local TAFE institute. If you want further information on the course please contact James Black on (02) 2174292. 2RRR The 2RRR Radio Production Training Course has been part of the station's operations almost since it's first broadcast in 1984. The training course's current format however was conceived three years ago when it was radically changed to better suit the station's needs and the changing face of community radio. One of the changes implemented was the use of professionals working in the broadcasting industry as trainers rather than relying on station personnel to present all of the course. Other features of the restructured course include demo tape production which gives the students a simulated "live to air" experience while giving station management an idea of what the students wish to offer the station. The ten week course was designed to give it's participants a broad overview of station and community radio structure while simultaneously providing the station with a constant source of new ideas and talent. The four main areas covered are tailored to give each student the basic skills required to present a show. The fact that the trainers are talking about their professions provides the students not only with the theory they require but also anecdotal information from the commercial and public sectors. This gives the course a very dynamic element. One of the strategies the course has employed to give participants an accurate idea of how the station operates is program "sit-in" sessions which not only gives the students first hand experience with studio practices and etiquette peculiar to the station. In this area a station initiated training course excells. Since the students generally pick their "sit in" hosts from listening to the station, this also provides regular opportunities for them to filter on to "on air" work at the station. At this stage they already have the mechanical skills to present a program and many of the current presenters take the opportunity to increase input on their programs and / or have a reliable back up for their shows. This is a good example of the flow of advantages of such a training course but it also provides more direct advantages. Anyone who has completed the course at the station is invited to repeat any of the four basic lectures which greatly improves the sound of the station not to mention the obvious advantage of having a Media Law solicitor regularly attend the station. The 2RRR Training Course is entirely self funded. Training does put a strain on the station's studio resources but also provides financial assistance for their maintenance. The course also provides occasional part-time employment for it's Coordinator and Panel Trainer. Lecturers are employed on a freelance basis. Contact Chris O'Dwyer, the course coordinator, on mobile phone # 018 292193 for more details. NERTT As reported in the last CBX the National Ethnic Radio Training Taskforce (NERTT) has decided to make the Australian Ethnic Radio Training Project (AERTP) more easily available to community stations. Although the original ERCAS funds were earmarked for the training of ethnic broadcasters it was felt that the entire sector should benefit from the developed training infrastructure. Until recently the program was open to ethnic programmers only, supported by full subsidies from NERTT. However, it is now possible for both ethnic and non-ethnic broadcasters to attend official AERTP courses and such 'mixed' groups are eligible for partial to full funding (special conditions apply). Clearly this initiative is positive both in terms of cultural exchange and financial incentive. The AERTP course, although very comprehensive, is designed to be flexible in terms of content and scheduling (ie. a station may elect to spend between 26 to 44 hours on program production, and classes may be scheduled one night a week or all day on Saturdays and Sundays). It is expected that stations would be able to draw on trainers from the approved trainer's register or, alternatively, use their own trainers. Advanced training modules, including a "Train the Trainer" module, are currently being developed and tested and these will also be released for general use at the appropriate time. For a copy of the curriculum ($100) or more details on subsidies, contact Maude Chin at AERTP on tel: 02- 2641662. COMMUNITY TELEVISION REPORTS A good number of CTV representatives attended a meeting held in July at the CBAA offices. Lots of areas were discussed and recommendations made to the CTV Standing Committee. The main issues discussed were sponsorship, promotion, program exchange, CTV Codes of Practice, the Summit and computer networking. If you would like the full set of Minutes outlining the topic areas and recommendations, please contact Christina Alvarez at the CBAA. BRIZ 31 On the 31st of July BRIZ 31 commenced operations as Brisbanes community television broadcaster with regular broadcasts starting the following day. For those of you who missed it here is a transcript. Good evening Brisbane Im Wes Tat...., no sound but really nice pictures. If you cant laugh at your own mistakes then who can you laugh at. Mind you we werent laughing much at the time. During the course of the evening the people who were supplying us with audio equipment managed to blow up 3 audio desks in succession as a result of having loaned us a faulty Multi-core. In the end our plans for the nights Live programming were replaced with episodes of Chris Conroys Leisureworld. Its ironic that something a simple as a faulty cable can reduce over $400,000 dollars worth of equipment and facilities to nothing. Sure we were disappointed but had we failed? No!! We were on air and we had launched the highest powered and possibly the widest radiated community broadcast service in Australia, with an ERP in excess of 50,000 watts and a potential audience of over 1,300,000 people. Four weeks in, the bugs are ironed out, well most of them anyway and we are currently broadcasting, on average, 3 and a half hours of programming each day with two live shows going to air each week night. f you are interested in submitting program material, we'd love to hear from you on 07 844 3131 during office hours. ONE YEAR OF COMMUNITY CABLE CASTING!! In October "The Community Channel", Australias first licenced community cable television station will celebrate its first birthday. On October the 31st 1993 The Community Channel launched into reality with a 3 hour live broadcast from Metro Television in the Paddington Town Hall, Sydney. Since then the Channel has been televising up to four hours per day of educational, independant, arts, experimental and community based programming from Australia and all over the world. An enormous effort from residents, volunteers, community groups and independent producers has made the channel a huge success in its "trial mode", broadcasting to a small community in the suburb of Centennial Park, Sydney. Run by Metro TV in conjunction with Telecom, a year of cable casting has provided information that will assist in the development of other community based Cable TV projects as the cable system expands. The staff and volunteers of the channel have a new horizon to set their sights on as cable television becomes a reality as early as September this year with up to 12 channels being offered initially on a system capable of 70. The Cable system itself will be predominantly Pay TV but will also have no cost services such as The Community Channel and other redirected sources such as ABC and SBS. The aim of The Community Channel is to ensure that if these systems are used as an "electronic highway" of information and entertainment, that there is room for "electronic parks and community notice boards" as well. Any one wanting further information about The Community Channel can contact us at our new phone number 221 4416, or write to us at PO Box 414, Paddington NSW 2021 Melbourne Community TV The Move is the first Video Culture Program to promote local artists on a broad spectrum. Local bands and independent film makers can submit their music videos or short films. Artists can contribute their graphics, paintings or sculptures and performance artists are encouraged to take part in this feast of local talent. The Move's live multi-media events will occur monthly at The Punters Club and footage will be filmed for the weekly show screening on MCT, UHF 31, from August. The Move program will feature guest presenters, local music videos and short films, interviews between bands, film makers and associated artists and a local artists bulletin. LISMORE LINC TV this past year has, I'm sure, set precedents in hard work and dedication by its active volunteers. With the recent move to Southern Cross Uni, "Live to Air" Broadcast Workshops, in-house training and the commitment to our regular programmes, no-one could beg for a better team. It is our regret to see Celia English, Steve M Happ, Marilyn Bramley and Peter Simon finish their 6 month skillshare jobs, nonetheless LINC TV will soon have 4 replacements to step into their size 15 shoes. A move to combine 2NCR FM and LINC TV's promotions packages is a first and is certainly something to look forward to, enabling wider promotions opportunities to the community. LINC TV's second stage of transmission is planned for November and is looked forward to with great enthusiasm as this time, with special thanks to SCU, LINC TV will own the transmitter. LINC TV is always on the scout for volunteers or correspondents, especially those who can share their experience with us. At the moment there are positions for producers, script writers, audio technicians, community council representatives and so many more. Keep it in mind, UHF 50. For more details contact LINC TV on tel: (066) 22 0328 Fax: (066) 22 1683 or write to PO Box 554, Lismore, NSW, 2480. ABS SURVEY TO INCLUDE COMMUNITY BROADCASTERS The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) is about to conduct its first detailed survey of all sectors of broadcasting. Probably best known for the five-yearly Population Census and for its regular economic indicators such as the consumer Price Index, the ABS also produces a diversity of information about all aspects of Australia's economy and society. Each year the ABS selects one or more areas of the economy to be the subject of its Service Industries Surveys. This year radio and television are to be included. The survey will provide comprehensive information about the operations of public, commercial and community broadcasting. Now that the ABA is not involved in collecting statistics from the sector, this survey represents our only opportunity to contribute to 'official' broadcasting statistics. As such the information produced from the survey will be of great benefit to the sector in its dealings with government and in promoting a wider understanding of how it operates. The survey will be conducted by mailed questionnaire. Every broadcasting organisation will receive one, probably in November. Most of the information will be financial - details of income and expenses - but some questions will ask about numbers of paid staff and volunteers. The financial questions will relate to the year ended 30 June 1994. In designing its surveys the ABS consults widely, to ensure that it collects information in the most suitable way. The ABS is now in discussion with the CBAA, among other bodies, to determine what information should be asked for, and how to ask for it. Generally the financial questions on the form will be designed to correspond as closely as possible to the items that stations record in their accounts. This should minimise the time and effort involved in providing the information, as the ABS recognises the limited resources of most community broadcasters. Further to this, ABS staff will be happy to assist station representatives in interpreting the questions on the forms after they are despatched. The survey will be conducted by the ABS' Melbourne office, and a toll-free phone number for enquiries will be shown on the front of the form. Results are expected to be available by the middle of 1995. Broad aggregate data will be published in a bulletin, and further detail will be available on request. This unpublished information will probably be of the greatest use for research and analysis. The survey will be conducted under the authority of the Census and Statistics Act. Confidentiality is a very important issue for the ABS. It has strict safeguards to ensure that information about individual contributors to its figures is not disclosed without their consent. The CBAA welcomes this initiative by the ABS and encourages all members to assist the ABS by providing accurate information in a timely way. Should you wish to know more about the survey please contact Mark Taylor of the ABS in Melbourne on (03) 615 7415, or Ann Santo on (03) 615 7614. To find out more about the range of statistics that the ABS can provide, please contact Information Services in the ABS office in your capital city. CBAA Submission to the Summit Along with the other community broadcasting industry bodies which attended the Summit, the CBAA was asked to prepare a submission based on a series of questions framed by the CBF. The questions related to the nature of community broadcasting, the CBAAs place in the system, and the kinds of challenges facing the Sector in the immediate future. The CBAAs submission is reproduced here, with the exception of the final question on options for a new structure, which has been overtaken by the decision of the Summit to form a Community Media Council. (see Communique on page 23) 1. WHAT IS COMMUNITY BROADCASTING? Traditionally the essential criteria for community broadcasting have been that the service provided was, (a) Operated by a non-profit organisation which ploughed back into the service any surplus funds produced. (b) Established on the basis of community participation, with the community having ownership and control of the organisation through an open and democratic electoral process, and with access being provided to members of the community who wished to broadcast on the radio or television station. (c) Operated largely on a volunteer basis with unpaid volunteers performing practically all of the on-air functions, and in most cases, many of the other functions as well. Traditionally individuals have been prohibited from obtaining a material benefit from the operations of a community (public) broadcasting station, but this requirement seems to have been dropped. There is no such provision in the Broadcasting Services Act (1992). In exchange for operating within the above framework and for making an important contribution to the welfare of the community, the Government provided the Sector with free access to the spectrum, and made a further contribution by way of grants to special interest community broadcasters and in lesser measure to general multi-purpose community radio stations. In the case of television the spectrum has been made available free of charge but the government has decided as a matter of policy not to make a direct contribution to capital and operating costs. 2. CBAAs ROLE IN COMMUNITY BROADCASTING The CBAA is the national representative body for the Community Broadcasting Sector. It represents member community radio and television stations and aspirants with Governments, statutory organisations, other industry bodies, and the general public. In recognition of this the Government has appointed the CBAA as Sector representative on the Broadcasting Industry Advisory Council (BIAC). Besides serving its members with a wide range of advice on policy and technical matters, the CBAA provides services to the sector such as the satellite service (Comradsat), bulk discounted rates on copyright fees (PPCA and AMCOS), a satellite delivered national news service (coming early September), an authorised national sponsorship scheme (also early September), bulk rates for defamation insurance, representation at negotiations on employment awards, and for TV groups, co-ordination of the policy sub-committee. The CBAA resource base furnishes stations with information concerning voluntarism and access, guides for aspirant groups, programming strategies, management and administration, training, fundraising, technical consultancy, legal issues and interpretations of the Broadcasting Services Act. The national newsletter, the CBX, and the annual CBAA Conference keep members informed of recent policy developments and issues, and provide them with a means of contact with other community broadcasters around Australia. 3. WHAT COMPRISES COMMUNITY BROADCASTING, IN THE CONTEXT OF LEGISLATIVE AND TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS? With rapid changes in technology and a new legislative framework which seeks to encompass those changes it is inevitable that the parameters of what constitutes community broadcasting will have to expand. At the present time a list of what comprises community broadcasting would include the following: community radio licensees; community radio aspirants; community television licensees; community television aspirants; community radio and television programming groups (e.g. CTV consortium members; PRN; cable television providers); community narrowcasters (Umewarra); BRACS licensees. Until recently, broadcasting in Australia has been dominated by a heavily regulated free-to-air system with a limited number of outlets. A new legislative framework, rapid developments in communications technologies and the inexorable globalisation of communications heralds the beginning of a revolution in the production and distribution of electronic media in Australia. The Australian broadcasting landscape is undergoing a radical reshaping which will have a profound impact on all broadcasters. Community broadcasters can sit by and watch - a position which will result in further marginalisation or render them largely irrelevant by the 21st century- or they can fight for a place in the brave new world of broadcasting communications which is now being shaped, primarily by commercial interests and dry government economic policy. (a) The Broadcasting Services Act The Broadcasting Services Act [1992] (BSA) has fundamentally changed the role of government in regulating broadcasting in Australia. Rather than controlling broadcasting communications by limiting the availability of broadcasting licences, the BSA has opened up access to broadcasting licences to all comers. This relaxation of government control on broadcasting implicit in the BSA has been driven as much by an economic approach as by a commitment to media diversification or freeing up broadcast speech in Australia. The results of the Broadcasting Services Act are less regulation, greater competition and increased commercialisation across all three sectors of the broadcasting industry. The BSA is effectively: Maximising the use of the existing electro-magnetic spectrum Encouraging the entry of new participants into broadcasting and narrowcasting (making it easier for operators to buy up new outlets, build networks and develop stations/services specifically targeting small, special interest audiences) Facilitating the use of new technologies and distribution mechanisms The economic approach embodied in the BSA and through into the regulatory bodies (SMA, NTA, ABA) may: prohibit the entry of community broadcasting to new distribution systems (those with the deepest pockets dominating the means of distribution); see the principle of universal access give way to a user pay regime where audience access will become a direct function of the ability to pay; see the emergence of an electronic caste system with information and entertainment services in the future divided between the haves and the have nots. (b) Regulators The light-handed approach being taken by the Australia Broadcasting Authority (ABA) is proving to be very problematic. There are the major difficulties which have arisen in relation to community television operating under drop-through provisions; note the inability of the ABA to deal with renegade narrowcasters; there are the imposts on community broadcasters in relation to reporting complaints, compliance with technical standards etc. Equally problematic for the community sector is the market-based approach of the Spectrum Management Authority and National Transmission Authority. (c)Globalisation of Communications As the Australian economy is being shaped by the increasing internationalisation of production, so too is Australias communications future by the steady incorporation into the global economy. Government tariff reductions, the signing of the GATT agreement and the push to deregulate the economy are factors accelerating these changes. In addition to Australias push into East Asia is the launching of new generation communications satellites in the Asia-Pacific region which will have a significant impact on Australias telecommunications and broadcasting industry in the near future. The Palapar satellite, for example, will reach 70% of the worlds population. The National and commercial sectors are showing great concern for this trend and it would be imprudent for the community sector to assume that these changes will not impact, to some degree, on our homegrown services. (d) Fragmentation of the Sector Although not a direct result of federal government funding policies, the effect of targeting specific services has led to a cultural divide in community broadcasting, with ethnic, print handicapped and Aboriginal services funded at a significantly higher level than the bulk of the sector. The funding formula used by the government has contributed, in some degree, to the divisions now apparent within the sector. While it is appropriate and understandable that special interest broadcasters and broadcasters in a region group together to further their collective aims, this has led to an unwieldy sector which is difficult to co-ordinate, which has inadequate lines of communication, and where the roles and functions of organisations are blurred. In these circumstances there are increasing demands on the pot of money in order to establish and support offices or secretariats. (e) Government Funding One of the real problems for community broadcasting is the federal governments refusal to support financially community television which results in great difficulty for the CBAA, or other sector bodies, to offer adequate support to television interests. With more commercial and National operators competing within specialist or niche broadcasting areas the government may prove increasingly less willing to continue supporting the community sector. (f) Move to Digitalisation With its increasingly low priced digital storage systems, the computer is making the production and custom packaging of radio programs both quicker and cheaper than ever before. Digital radio production equipment is becoming less expensive and will eventually surpass analogue equipment in terms of availability and price. Digital compression technologies will greatly expand the capacity of many existing delivering mechanisms in the future, enabling the delivery of dozens of stations or audio channels in one signal to a listener at home or in their car. In order to remain competitive, to take advantage of new distribution systems and to provide a meaningful training for volunteers, community broadcasters must plan for managed change from analogue to digital production and transmission facilities. g) Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) The third generation of radio sound broadcasting, Digital Audio Broadcasting, will be introduced in Australia within the next few years. Issues arising for community broadcasters are: (i) Which DAB system will best serve community radio? There are significant differences in DAB systems being developed and tested internationally. At present, the Eureka 147 model prohibits local services (as in sub-metropolitan community radio services) but international pressure from community radio has led the designers to look for possible solutions. (ii) Will Community Radio have automatic access to DAB? The Government may choose to make specific reservations for non-commercial services. However it may resolve competing claims by any combination of purely price-based allocation, by tender or commercial negotiation. Community broadcasting could be priced out of DAB or permanently relegated to, and eventually ghettoised on, the FM band. (iii) How will community broadcasters be able to afford access to the centralised transmission costs? (iv) How many community services will there be in the future? DAB may enable many more radio services in markets where there are already many services. If community radio is successful in gaining access to DAB then many more community radio services will be licensed in a city the size of Sydney or Melbourne. Given current interest in metropolitan community broadcasting by aspirants groups, this could mean many more niche community services (youth, gay and lesbian, non-English language services, aged etc). How will they all survive? (h) New Technologies Rapid developments in broadcasting technologies combined with de-regulation of the means of delivery in Australia will see a range of emerging technologies being used for delivering programming services to audiences . These include both multi-point (MDS) and point-to-point distribution systems and include microwave, telephone lines, fibre optic cable, co-axial cable, satellite, digital audio broadcasting, direct broadcasting satellites for radio (DS) etc. These are not futuristic technologies - they are in use now, being trialed or soon to commence. Added to these delivery mechanisms is the rapid convergence of broadcasting, telecommunications and computing technologies which will soon convert domestic telephones into mini-computers and television sets into computers. The infrastructure for these Information Superhighways is being developed at a rapid pace. The result of these new and converging technologies, coupled with the deregulation of broadcasting in Australia, will be: Greater separation of content and carriage There are likely to be fewer service providers owning and operating their own transmitters and a proliferation of program providers to supply material which will be bundled on multiple service channels. More choice of services Possibly hundreds of audio, visual and interactive services available to the consumer in the next few years. The traditional categories of radio, television and print will merge, particularly on cable systems, so that community sector industry bodies will need to cover non-profit community based services across the spectrum. More competition A far greater depth of services (increasingly specialised programming and interactivity) Increased fragmentation of delivery systems Cable, telephone, MDS, satellite, off the band narrowcast services (as well as free-to-air on-band services). In order to reach an audience(s) more than one delivery system may be required. Increasing fragmentation of audiences If Australia follows the US model, free-to-air services will still hold major market shares, although substantially diminished on current levels as new competitors take their toll. Growing commercialisation of services Many new entrants will not try to become major players but will provide profitable low-cost specialised services to carefully targeted demographic or special interest groups, many of whom may be among the traditional supporters of the community sector. More pre-production, custom packaging and networking of programming from both local and overseas sources. All three sectors of the industry have moved increasingly towards networking. For the commercial and national sectors it is a means of reducing overheads while the community sector views it as a means of sharing scarce resources. Volunteer Drift The proliferation of new programming services may encroach on the volunteer base of community radio. Given that many volunteers are seeking industry experience and/or the opportunity to pursue a personal programming passion, many may be tempted to join a commercial niche competitor in the future, especially if that operation can offer them a wage &/or the prospect of greater access to air-time. (i) What of the Future? Below are some of the affects on community broadcasting which will result from the changes in technology we are facing and the legislative provisions which are framed to encompass those changes. Community broadcasters (non-profit, community based service providers) will utilise any delivery mechanism available, and any categories under the Act to provide their service. Thus we will no longer be able to describe our sector as community broadcasting. Narrowcasters and service providers on cable will be included within the sector if they are non-profit and have a democratic, community based corporate structure. Print media might also be included! There are likely to be many more program providers who wont necessarily be licensees. Provision will also have to be made for them within our representative structures. Specialist programs and niche programming will be encroached on by commercial operators who are able to provide profit-making services based on community radios traditional audiences. The plethora of visual, audio and interactive program services available to consumers in the near future will lead to a highly competitive market place, one which is likely to seriously erode community radios (and TVs) traditional audience base. This new competitive environment will have a significant financial impact on established and new community services. The refusal of the government to support community television and possible reductions in financial assistance to community radio (or parts of the sector) point to increasing pressure on community broadcasting to stand on its own feet. We may need to form a broader based community media alliance in order to have the clout necessary to deal with government, regulators, business, etc. Community broadcasters will have to provide programs and formats which are very different in order to be competitive. Those which emulate commercial services may not withstand the threat of a burgeoning industry crowded with profit-making outlets. Unless there is agreement on an improved structure for the industry and clear definitions of roles and functions, there will be an inevitable increase in fragmentation of the sector along funding, programming, regional and other lines. 4. WHAT ARE THE MAIN INTEREST GROUPINGS WITHIN THE SECTOR There are a number of ways of categorising interest groupings but the CBAA has chosen the following approach: (A) Culture (i) National Indigenous Media Association of Australia (NIMAA), representing Indigenous community broadcasters (aspirants, stations, and Indigenous Australians broadcasting on general community stations), Indigenous print media, and indigenous employees of the ABC and the SBS. (ii) National Ethnic and Multicultural Broadcasters Council (NEMBC) representing ethnic broadcasters who broadcast on ethnic community radio stations and on general community radio (and TV?) stations. (B) Religion (i) Association of Christian Broadcasters (ACB) representing licensed and aspirant Christian community broadcasting stations. (C) Programming (i) Australian Council for Radio for the Print Handicapped, representing licensed print handicapped community radio stations. (ii) Fine Music Radio Network, representing the licensed fine music stations (MBS callsigns). (D) Gender (i) The Womens Network is representative of many women in the Community Broadcasting sector. (E) Geography (i) CBAV representing Victorian aspirants and licensees. (ii) NSWCBA representing NSW aspirants and licensees, mainly from Sydney and southern NSW. (iii) Northern NSW CBA, representing northern NSW aspirants and licensees. (iv) QLDCBA representing Queensland aspirants and licensees. (v) SACBA representing South Australian aspirants& licensees. (vi) WACBA representing Western Australian aspirants and licensees. (vii) NTCBA representing Northern Territory aspirants and licensees. There remain other special interest groups within the Community Broadcasting Sector which either reflect the programming formats of particular stations (eg.education, sports, etc) or the interests of sections of the population represented on many stations (eg.older Australians, youth), but as yet they have established no formal structures which should be seen as distinct from the representation offered by the CBAA and the State, Territory, and regional bodies. 5. HOW CAN THESE INTERESTS BE BEST REPRESENTED INDIVIDUALLY AND COLLECTIVELY (i) State, Territory and regional CBAs Taking the State, Territory and regional CBAs first, their role is essentially defined by geography and their membership for the great part are also members of the CBAA. All of these CBAs are funded by the CBF to hold an annual conference and to consider matters of immediate concern to aspirants and licensees within their geographic area. Those aspirants and licensees have particular needs which often cannot be served adequately from the CBAA located in Sydney. In particular, marketing strategies can be developed and tailored to the needs and strengths of members within a State, Territory or region. Technical assistance by way of advice and on the spot help can be arranged locally with the stronger stations helping the weaker and aspirant groups. In general members located reasonably close to each other have the opportunity of advice and support from their peers, and even the possibility of some networking (eg. Central Victoria, Northern Territory) where program formats are compatible. Aside from other advantages, the coming together regularly of community broadcasters in a geographically defined area provides a valuable sounding board for each of the members at a time when conditions are changing rapidly and new ideas and improved ways of doing things are the essence of survival. CBAA members who are also members of State, Territory and regional CBAs continue to be well represented at the CBAA National Conference. Those members have a reasonable opportunity to be represented on the CBAA National Committee, and in fact the CBAA Constitution encourages members to ensure that the composition of the National Committee takes full account of the national composition of the organisation. There is also a powerful, but unwritten, expectation that the composition of the National Committee will reflect an appropriate gender balance. Traditionally the CBAA has had a wide spread of representation from the States, Territories and regions on the National Committee. Whether the current system is retained for a national peak body or is replaced by a system of guaranteed regional and special interest representation, the State, Territory and regional CBAs should be in a position to ensure that there is an effective spread of geographic representation on the body concerned. (ii) The Special Interest Organisations In the case of the special interest organisations the situation is more difficult. Special interest community broadcasters initially joined the CBAA and operated within the organisation until they felt confident to form their own representative bodies. With the exception of the Christian broadcasters who do not receive specific government funding, the establishment of special interest community broadcasting organisations coincided with the decision, generally on the part of the CBF, to set aside funds for a Secretariat for that purpose. Prior to the establishment of these Secretariats the CBAA held conferences from time to time which addressed the issues of concern to specialist broadcasters. Each specialist organisation now hosts a national conference for its members. During the period that the specialist groups formed sub-groups within the CBAA, arrangements were put into place to ensure special interest representation at National Committee meetings. The system was (and is) that where no representative of a special interest group was elected to the National Committee at the AGM, the relevant special interest body would be asked to send an observer to attend Committee meetings. According to some of the special interest organisations this procedure has limited value because the representative is an observer with no voting power (though to date few if any National Committee decisions have gone to the vote). Also the special interest organisation is obliged to pay for the travel costs of its representative, and not all believe the cost to the organisation is worthwhile. Special interest organisations representing Aboriginal broadcasters, ethnic broadcasters, and Radio for the Print Handicapped groups now have representative bodies funded through the CBF or other government funding agencies. The Christian broadcasters fund their own representative body. These organisations take different views as to how far their representation of their membership goes: (a) NIMAA NIMAA seeks to encompass within its membership all indigenous broadcasters - aspirants, licensed stations, BRACS, and indigenous broadcasters who broadcast programs on general community radio stations. NIMAA also represents indigenous print media and indigenous employees of the ABC and the SBS. It is a national peak body for all indigenous media in Australia and in its membership criteria crosses a number of the boundaries which separate community broadcasting from other media sectors. In fulfilling this representation NIMAA seeks to cover virtually all aspects of the functions the CBAA carries out for community broadcasting (ie.lobbying and government relations, national sponsorship activities, satellite service (coming), news service, negotiations with trade unions on awards, etc). On this basis there would appear to be little incentive for indigenous media licensees to be members of both NIMAA and the CBAA. If NIMAA were to seek representation on a national community broadcasting peak body consideration might need to be given as to how NIMAAs aims and objectives fitted with those of the community broadcasting sector as a whole. NIMAA allows for membership from ABC and SBS employees as well as print media organisations; it supports the payment of award wages (set in negotiation with the MEAA) for all people working in indigenous media, including community broadcasting. From this perspective there are some aspects of NIMAAs role which might lead to it favouring the establishment of an SBS-type system for indigenous broadcasting, rather than the traditional volunteer model customarily associated with the community sector. The CBAA would support the development of a professional (ie. fully paid) broadcasting service for indigenous people, if that is what Aboriginal and Torres Strait people are seeking, but there would need to be discussions between NIMAA and the other community broadcasting bodies to clarify points of potential incompatibility prior to the establishment of any representative peak body. (b) ACRPH ACRPH represents print handicapped licensees in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra, Adelaide, Perth and Hobart?. It is unclear to the CBAA whether the organisations has any aspirant members. Until recently most RPH stations were members of the CBAA but with the establishment of the RPH Secretariat in Melbourne only 5 RPH in Adelaide remains a financial member of the CBAA. It would appear that to date the RPH Secretariat has adopted primarily a marketing function with the stations seeking to sell themselves to sponsors as a group. It is not apparent at present what other functions carried out by the CBAA on behalf of its members the ACRPH Secretariat would see itself covering for its members. There would appear to be every reason for RPH licensees to remain members of the CBAA. (c) NEMBC The NEMBC has always seen itself specifically as a representative organisation for ethnic broadcasters, as opposed to broadcasting stations. Its members are ethnic broadcasters and umbrella organisations which may hold a licence or represent ethnic broadcasters with programs on general community stations. There are 5 umbrella organisations which hold radio broadcasting licences but membership fees are determined according to how many broadcasting groups have time on the stations. It is the broadcasting groups the NEMBC represents. From this viewpoint the NEMBC recognises the legitimacy of the CBAA as the industry body which represents licensees and aspirants and hopefully encourages ethnic stations to remain members of the CBAA. At present only one full time ethnic station is not a member of the CBAA. Nevertheless, the NEMBC believes it has a major role in representing ethnic broadcasters at the political level, and also in relation to the CBAA and general community radio stations, where in the opinion of the NEMBC, ethnic broadcasters are not always treated equitably in comparison with English language broadcasters. (iii) CBAAs View All of the organisations which currently represent community broadcasters have an important role in furthering the interests of the sector. As the smallest and poorest sector our interests and concerns are likely to be overlooked or over-ruled in favour of more important issues, so more than one organisation pushing the interests of the sector is an advantage. However, this is so only if the sector organisations present a united front on important issues, and co-ordinate their activities in such a way as to maximise their effectiveness. If there is disunity and discord within the sector its representations will be overlooked and brushed aside. Some kind of mechanism for co-ordination and co-operation is essential. The Summit overview and full set of submissions is available upon request from the CBF. Tel: 03 419 8055. SUMMIT COMMUNIQUE The long awaited Community Broadcasting Summit was held on 13 - 14 August at Coolangatta in Queensland. It was attended by representatives of the CBAA, State, Territory and Regional CBA's, the National Indigenous Media Association of Australia (NIMAA), the National Ethnic and Multicultural Broadcasters Council (NEMBC), Australian Council for Radio for the Print Handicapped (ACRPH) and Australasian Christian Broadcasters (ACB) who met to consider how they might unite to best develop and promote their common interests as licensed and aspirant community broadcasters. Community television was represented also, as was the Women's Caucus whose delegate formed part of the CBAA team. At the conclusion of the discussions the Summit participants issued the following joint communique: 1.Twenty three representatives of the CBAA, NIMAA, ACRPH, NEMBC, ACB, regional community broadcasters, CTV and the CBF held a two day meeting on August 13 and 14, 1994. The primary concern was to explore ways of increasing the effectiveness of national organisations of the community broadcasting sector. 2.A wide range of issues and options were canvassed during the meeting. There was consensus on the need for improved communication between the many representation organisations and co-ordination of both advocacy and services wherever appropriate. 3.The CBAA was recognised by the other nations organisations as the key representative of community broadcasting licensee/aspirants. Similarly, the NIMAA, NEMBC, ACRPH and ACB were recognised as the representative of the interests of their respective constituencies. 4.The CBAA and representatives of regional community broadcasting groups agreed to a full review of their structural relationships. 5.The meeting agreed to set up a National community media council as a mechanism for improved liaison and development of strategies to coordinate policy, advocacy and services where these are common to the members. 6.The Council will initially comprise two nominees of the CBAA, NIMAA, NEMBC, ACB and ACRPH, with one representative from CTV, CBF, and regional CBA's Another position is reserved for an Equal Opportunity (EO) person. 7.The Council is to meet regularly, at least twice a year. The inaugural meeting will be held on October, 1994. The CBF will provide funding and secretarial support for the initial meetings of the Council. 8.Further reports on the summit meetings will be made at major community broadcasting conferences, including NIMAA (August), NEMBC (September) and CBAA (December). 9.The formation of the Council is a valuable step in the coordinated advancement of the community media sector. It will reflect both the common objects and the diversity of the sector. Michael Law: A Founding Father of Community Radio Michael Law OBE died in England on the 2nd June this year. Michael became involved in the Music Broadcasting Society of NSW at its formation meeting in March 1970. That group was one of the driving forces, along with educationalists such as Jim Warburton at Adelaide University, which convinced the government of the day to introduce public or community broadcasting in Australia. Michael Law was also involved in establishing the Public Broadcasting Association of Australia in 1974. He was Chairman of that group in the early years and subsequently became its first Executive Officer. In that role Michael Law was involved in much of the policy development for community broadcasting through the 1970s and 1980s. In 1988 Michael retired and returned to his native United Kingdom. Even in retirement his enthusiasm for community broadcasting was evident through his work with the Community Radio Association in the UK. Michael toured Australia in the middle 80s researching a book on the development of community broadcasting in this country. He spent three weeks at 5UV. It is hoped that his book will eventually be published. When it is it will document the development of a vigorous and dynamic sector of broadcasting in Australia. As Michael used to say get the structures right and the rest will follow. Were still trying, Michael. Ada Hulshoff JUST VISITING OR WHAT? by Clive Woodman What the hell, you may ask (many have), are you doing here? Well...Ive got a bit of a problem. I come from a country which has been ruled by the same right wing government for 15 years. Almost all alternative radio has been forced underground for over 30 years. Illegal pirates operate from bedrooms and garages with their transmitters hidden up trees. The state broadcaster dominates the airwaves with no less than 5 national (plus regional) stations. Local commercial radio is allowed, but pumps out a diet of pureed crap (the infamous golden hits format ) 24 hours a day. This is the plight of ...(no smirking please) Britain!...and yes I am a whingeing pom; but thats not why Ive been here for 3 months. Actually I came here to stop whingeing and find out how Britain could improve its radio. You may already know that the UK has got a small (correction ) tiny, licensed alternative radio sector. There are a few interesting stations; VIRGIN FM, controlled by record producer Richard Branson has, for example, introduced a narrow range of adult rock and KISS FM has given London 24 hours dance music. The problem is they are tightly controlled by companies that have profit as their first consideration and it shows in their programming. Australia is unique (in many ways); but particularly in having enshrined in law the existence of Community Radio. My job is to report to the UKs C.R.Association on your public radios coming of age (21 years). Our sector consists of just 9 stations (licensed as commercials); but 150 aspirant groups. The stations are spread out all over the British Isles from Heartlands FM, broadcasting to a few thousand people in the Highlands of Scotland at weekends, to Welsh speaking Radio Cerridigion in North Wales. Things, therefore, are not quite as dire as they may have sounded from my first comments. In fact there are signs of change. Britains Radio Authority has just announced that it may at last consider licensing up to 300 small scale stations. As you lucky Aussie bastards (no offence intended ) already have over 130 stations Im here to take a look at what could be our future! So what have you got that we might want to steal...oops,sorry...I mean learn from (lick, lick, grovel, grovel). The quick answer is access; diversity; and independence from profiteering. I have discovered a range of great stations here, large and small, covering every kind of programming imaginable. Some concentrate on particular areas of music and culture whilst others deal with womens issues; youth; lesbians and gay men; etc. One of the areas Im most impressed by is the range of ethnic programming. Volunteers all over Australia broadcasting in 75 different languages must be a world record. Aboriginal radio, on the other hand, still seems poorly provided for in some areas. Its been extremely useful to see how stations like Mallacootas 3MGB serving a population of just 1200 people survives; thanks to a team of devoted volunteers ( as it is all over Australia). If radio can serve communities of this size successfully then it can work anywhere. More worrying is a station I dare not name where control has, in effect, fallen into the hands of an individual who is using it as an extension of business activities. C.R. groups here and in the UK must take steps to protect themselves from those who set out to pack meetings and control radio for their own ends. IS AN AWARD FOR COMMUNITY RADIO A THREAT OR AN OPPORTUNITY? This article does not express the views of the CBAA, the national committee, or any individuals on it. It is strictly the view of the author. At the risk of stating the bleeding obvious, the presentation of a log of claims on many Community Radio stations has created some concerns among members. Awards are legally enforceable minimums for pay and conditions that are established either for States (which have the direct constitutional power to set prices and wages), or for the Commonwealth (which has only an indirect power). Because of the limited nature of the Commonwealth power over wages, before the Federal Industrial Relations Commission can be involved, there has to be a "dispute". Again, due to some highly legalistic rulings over the years in the High Court, "dispute" has a particular meaning in this context. As a result, in order to ensure that a "dispute" exists so that the IRC can be involved, a hugely extravagant "log" or list of claims is made on employers. This ensures that they only have to come up with a new log once in a while because the "dispute" can continue to exist as long as there are outstanding claims. Thus the parties can continue to use the IRC whenever they need or wish to. This involves every employer across the country being logged because each individual employer must be listed as a respondent to the Award. In fact of course it is most usual for a representative organisation to negotiate on behalf of all employers, as the Union negotiates on behalf of all employees. Unfortunately the MEAA made the tactical error of proceeding with this process without discussing it with the CBAA, so that we could prevent people being startled by the imaginative log that they came up with. The situation as I see it now is this: As you have been advised, there is an argument (from a very expensive lawyer in the field) that, because we are largely (90%?) voluntary, and so diverse, we could argue that no award be made. (In spite of the log mentioning volunteer staff, I am not aware of any Award in the country that covers unpaid staff. I think the IRC would see that prospect as way beyond its current role.) Personally I think that the history of Industrial Relations in the country would be strongly against getting such a ruling from the IRC. And if it was achieved, it would not mean that no award is applicable. It just means that the Unions that could cover community radio staff, could seek to apply existing awards. Depending in which state you operate, and the type of things you are involved in, this might include the Commercial Radio Award, the Clerks Award, the Commercial Travellers Award, the Radio Engineers Award, the Higher Education Award, the Retail Award and so on. This would not just be a matter of keeping your head down and hoping that a Union doesn't spot you! It mostly means that any time you have a staff member that is unhappy (over anything really) you are potentially subject to a claim based on any applicable Award, that you might not even be aware of let along being suitable to your situation. Won't happen in the "committed" and friendly Community Radio sector? It already has in at least a couple of cases, resulting in large payouts. On the other hand, a sensible negotiated Award, that is built around the realities of the sector and in the Federal content also allowing for considerable "enterprise bargaining" flexibility should mean that disputes can be kept to a minimum, and the overall sector has a more stable basis for survival. But, many of you have said to the CBAA, "If we have to pay Award wages we will go broke." Yes, everyone is aware that money is tight across the sector, and that people often do extraordinary amounts of work voluntarily to keep stations serving their communities. It seems to me, that if a community is expecting some people to provide hours of unpaid work for the benefit of the community, then that community is receiving a donation equivalent to a large amount of money. Is it fair to demand that individuals make such a donation for the benefit of the community? If staff are expected to work 70 hours per week for 30 hours pay they are precisely in that situation. Stations need not pay more than they can afford. And nothing can prevent people donating as much time as they like to the benefit of their community. But when some people are paid for some of that work, it is surely better to be clear what is voluntary and what is paid. And if a radio station cannot run without gross exploitation of individuals, maybe there is a real question about the priority that it's community gives to that activity (harsh though that might sound). My experience in this sort of development is based on being heavily involved in the establishment of an award in the Community Education sector, in which similarly large numbers of volunteers worked with a small number of paid staff. While similar concerns about the viability of that sector were expressed, in the end a reasonable result was achieved, and the stability, viability, and general staff /management relations has improved in that field. Which is not to say that there has been no controversy! It is a human activity as much as Community Radio or any other, which probably builds some level of dispute in automatically! But in clarifying relationships, and giving a framework in which disputes can be worked out, it has meant that the often personally bitter argument that often arises in these situations can be avoided. Anybody that wishes to discuss the situation, this article or anything to do with the development of an Award for this sector would be very welcome to call me at work on 051 221 225. Paul Strickland (A long time volunteer producer, presenter, Board of Management member). REPORT: CHRIS HOLLIDAY - VICE PRESIDENT RADIO Welcome to David Sice, who has been appointed Technical Consultant to the CBAA. David has a long history of involvement in Community Radio at 7LTN, and as Vice President Radio in 1991. In July I attended a one day seminar on Digital Sound Broadcasting (DSB) at Ultimo organised by the ABC. There was useful information regarding technical and programming options at a national and international level, with the CBAA being represented by a paper given by its General Manager Michael Thompson. At least one commercial radio operator expressed concern at the approach being taken by the government to the introduction of DSB. The government, and especially the Department of Communications and the Arts is a disciple of free market economics. This means that money rules, and that social policy objectives are ignored. The speech by the Parliamentary Secretary to the conference displayed no sympathy to the concerns of existing operators. By contrast it is instructive to consider the Canadian situation, where the radio industry and government are working closely together to implement a DSB policy which both protects the existing industry, and allows for new entrants. Already the Canadians have agreed on a set of regulatory and policy issues which allow for a planned introduction of DSB is Canada. There has been a high level of consensus within the Canadian broadcast industry, and a pro-active role played by the Canadian government. For example, government and industry decided early that DSB is to be a replacement technology and existing broadcasters would have priority access. Contrast this with the Australian situation where the DSB committee is moribund, and there is no interest by government in working with existing operators for mutual benefit. The Broadcasting Services Act allows the Minister to reserve parts of the broadcasting service bands for national (ABC, SBS) and community services, free of charge. I have argued previously that DSB needs to be designated as a broadcasting services band, which would allow for free access to DSB by these two sectors. Existing commercial operators are excluded from this provision. The result is a divided industry, which can be exploited by an unsympathetic department. The CBAA would advantage the community sector by lobbying for commercial operators to be entitled to free access to DSB as well. The only winner in the present situation is a department which sees DSB as well. The only winner in the present auction access, as with the recent MDS and high power narrowcast auctions. Government policy needs to be changed to recognise the importance of maintaining the viability of existing operators. The community sector has most to lose under present government policy. Several submissions to the recent summit revealed sympathy for community broadcasting representative bodies to represent narrowcasters. There has been general recognition by the CBAA national committee that alliances need to be formed with bodies representing other forms of media, for example print publishing. The sympathy for representing narrowcasters is misplaced however as it does not take into account the quite different history, philosophy and purposes of the community and narrowcasting sectors. I have great sympathy for those aspirant community broadcasters who have been frustrated by the delays in licencing caused by the Australian Broadcasting Authoritys lengthy licensing timetable. The answer is not to take the easy route and obtian a narrowcast licence, but to insist that sufficient resources are allocated by the ABA to properly serve the community sector. The community broadcasting sector tend to blur the distinction between the community and narrowcast sectors. If this trend is not resisted, the very justification for the community sector will be jeopardised. The Codes of Practice are nearing completion, with the public consultation period underway. Once registered with the ABA, these codes will govern the operation of the sector. Some stations may not realise it, but the Codes in some areas require that individual stations develop their own particular codes, consistent with the general codes. This will be a valuable opportunity for stations to consider matters such as conflict resolution, and the treatment of volunteers. Ultimately the Codes will only be as effective as individual stations choose to make them. Dont forget the annual conference in Canberra, Ill see you there. Chris Holliday STATION NEWS - ASPIRANTS 5UV TEST TRANSMITTING BELIEVE IT OR NOT!! Rumoured FM test transmission for 5UV is now no longer a rumour. Yes folks. We finally browbeat the Canberra bureaucracy into giving us 45 days on FM. as a trial transmission. From Saturday, 1st October well be broadcasting in FM and AM just like we did during Festival Diary Radio. We need to be at our best and there may be some new showcase programs going to air. Living Sound FM 94.1 recently held a Radiothon on the second last day of their test broadcast to raise funds for higher powered transmission equipment. An announcer form Rhema FM in Newcastle, Geoff Daniels, was 'imported' and went to air for 18 hours, backed up by a team of phone answerers to take calls from listeners taking part in the on-air auction and music requests. The event raised around $3,500 towards the equipment needed. Many sponsors took part by donating quantities of items from ex-rental ski gear to black forest cakes. Whitehorse FM Inc. was formed in late 1990 to serve the community radio "blind spot" in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne, and covers the municipalities of Box Hill, Camberwell, Kew and Hawthorn. Four test broadcasts have been conducted...the most recent for two weeks at the Whitehorse Plaza shopping centre in Box Hill. Another test is schedule for late September at the same venue, with over 100 local community organisations ready to participate. Community support has been tremendous but people are also feeling disappointed by the ABA's delayed timetable for category C licences. However, Whitehorse FM has been heartened by the public support given by Dr. Michael Wooldridge (MP) who wants to do all he can to hasten the licencing process. HAS ANYONE SEEN THIS MAN? Last seen at 38 Carlisle Street, Ingleburn, on Tuesday 17th May 1994, when visiting the studios of Macarthur Community Radio (MCR). This rare sighting of the Minister for Communications, Mr Michael Lee took a stint behind the panel while local MP's Chris Haviland (Macarthur) and Mark Latham (Werriwa) looked on wondering how they too could get their message to air. But all was in vain, because MCR was in one of those "in between" states due to the current rules governing test transmissions. Secretary of MCR, Mr Ian Donaghy (far right) and Presdient John Evans spoke with Mr Lee and expressed their disappointment at having MCR's licence hearing put back from 1994 to late 1995 under the new planning timetable. John also took the opportunity to express the concerns of the CBAA about the abuse of the narrowcasting system, and the effects that it is having on genuine aspirant community broadcasters. One concesssion that MCR tried to achieve was a ministerial; reservation of a frequency. But alas we received the usual smile and assuring comments that we would have no problems, and were sure to get a licence in 1995 if the ABA keeps to it's revised schedule. Since this meeting John Evans has spoken to the ABA Planning Division, who are confident that the worst is over and that the new schedule will be on target soon. One of the interesting aspects to come out of the meeting was the ease by which the visit was arranged. It showed the importance of keeping in touch with all your local State and Federal members. MCR, in fact, did not invite the Minister to the studios, but rather the local member Mark Latham (2nd from right) considered a visit to MCR as an essential part of the Ministers visit to Werriwa. By having a close and good relationship with Mark and Chris Haviland, MCR features regularly in their activities. Whether we really achieved a great deal is questionable, however one thing we are certain of is that the Minister has heard first hand from an aspirant of the problems they have, and the difficulties some of the recent changes have had on an already struggling sector. It is well worth the effort to ensure you keep in contact with local MP's. Who knows, Mr Lee might be seen once again in a studio near you. STATION NEWS - PROGRAMMING NEW YORK FESTIVAL AWARD 2NCR-FM at Southern Cross University in Lismore, received an award at the prestigious New York International Festival of Radio and Promotion in June. In the History category, their program 'ROOTS IN REALTY' was episode two of the nationally produced series 'Owning Our History', and examined aboriginal life and attitudes in Australia before European occupation. It was played on community radio stations across Australia as part of the 1993 United Nations International Year of Indigenous People. 2NCR-FM will be continuing its supports of live and local music over the next few months as it gears up for a series of outside broadcasts from the Lismore region. It all kicks off in mid-August when the Southern Cross Uni. campus band finals will be held. Once again, 2NCR will provide a four hour live coverage of the event. This year, LINC-TV will also be covering the event and providing pictures at the 2NCR studios for assistance with the radio broadcast. On the long weekend at the end of September, Lismore will host the first Lismore Folk Festival. The feature act over the three day event is "Sirocco' plus there will be heaps of other national and local performers. 2NCR is hoping to get together a compilation tape special of these live gigs. In July this year, 2NCR-FM and LINC-TV entered into a new initiative which could be a model for the future of community broadcasting in Australia. Under the banner of the Faulty of Arts at Southern Cross Uni, LINC and 2NCR will be operating together, sharing resources and facilities. Selected staff , some volunteers, equipment and resources will be utilised by both entities. Students will be able to major in either or both of the disciplines, while community members will have the benefit of having a choice of community media in which to become involved. The initiative is currently in the final planning stage. There is a strong possibility that a new studio complex will be constructed to house both the radio & TV broadcasters.. Keep your eyes and ears tuned to the CBAA for more details about the possibility of paid employment for a lucky few at the radio/ TV network of 2NCR and LINC TV at Lismore. Get those CV's up to date, or contact 2NCR on (066) 203 929 if you would like more information on this exciting development (see the outline on page 25 in Networking). A Letter to Country Music Programmers Dear Friends, Can you help us?? We are looking for a directory or list of Radio stations in Australia that play Country Music. That would be Independent country music from here in the U.S. We have thousands of readers who are recording artists around the world. We would like to gain them some more exposure as well as help the DJs and Radio Managers of your wonderful country to receive this music. Yet we have no way of knowing who to address these records, tapes and CD to. Can you help? Entertainment News, PO Box 40, Santa Fe, Texas, 77517, USA Wyong-Gosford Youth Radio Youth Radio located on the Central Coast of NSW has recently completed its second successful test transmission. Over 650 phone calls were received during the four week period. The membership of the Co-op now totals 67 and presenters are numbered at over 45 and growing consistently. Local police didn't try and suppress the young people's issues this broadcast. In the past, the objective coverage of sensitive issues has alarmed some authorities. This broadcast produced even more issues including discrimination against IV drug users and the local elections from a youth perspective. As you can probably imagine, censorship is a dirty word at Youth Radio. Being an alternative youth service we play what the others won't play and say things that the others won't say. Musically our presenters avoid the commercial crap. Techno, metal, indie, local, alternative, rap, etc. makes us quite complementary to all the other local stations, and our support of local bands and issues makes us a much more relevant service than JJJ. Fundraising mainly consists of holding Rave Parties and regular all ages gigs featuring local bands. This has proved to be much more fun than selling sponsorship dressed up as ads. It's been a lot of fun to get this far in this urban wasteland of 1/4 million people. Convincing the cultural hierarchy that Metallica is as culturally relevant as Mozart has been a challenge that is slowly working. CONFERENCES CBAA Conference 2nd-4th December 1994 ANU, Canberra The annual meeting of CBAA members will take place later in the year than usual. The main reason is cost. Conferences are a lot cheaper to put on if you can take advantage of university venues and student accommodation. Unfortunately, the students don't vacate their rooms on long weekends. The CBAA President and Membership Services Officer recently visited ANU to check the facilities and both are convinced that our members will approve of the site. The plenary and forum rooms are very comfortable with a great space for the Expo and an OB van. The on-campus accommodation, Bergmann College, is situated in bush land with some views of The Lake. It is so pleasant that we have planned a welcome barbeque on the Thursday evening. For those who want to get away from the 'rabble' we have organised a good deal at the Lakeside Hotel, where we will be holding the Conference Dinner. You may notice that the cost of the conference seems to have increased. In fact it hasn't. The campus food shops close down on both Saturday and Sunday so rather than offering an optional lunch we are including the cost of the 'compulsory' catered lunch in the registration fee. Please refer to the Conference brochure for more details on sessions and speakers. If you require more registration forms let us know. Also note that the CBX includes a flyer on the CBAA Awards. The CBAA hopes that you and your station will be able to book the first weekend in December for what should be both a fun and interesting conference. Remember that an invitation to the Conference is an excellent form of volunteer recognition. For more details on the conference call Melanie Coombs at the CBAA on (02) 310 2999 AMARC 6 23-30 January 1995 Dakar, Senegal This is the first time an AMARC Conference will be held in Africa and the decision to hold it there reflects the democratization of communication that is sweeping Africa. You can get details of the themes, agenda, special airfares and cost of registration and accommodation from: AMARC. 3575 Blvd. St-Laurent, Suite 704, Montreal, Quebec CANADA. Communications Research Forum '94 26-27 September Sydney This forum will present and discuss the results of current and recent research relevant to emerging public policy issues in communications. Contact: Vickie Richardson, Communications Research Forum, BTCE, GPO Box 501, Canberra ACT 2601. Phone: (06) 274 6846 Fax: (06) 274 6816. World Summit on Television & Children 12-17 March 1995 Melbourne. The communications revolution and the subsequent effects it will have on the provision of television programs for children will be the focus of this Summit. Cost. $700. Contact: Australian Childrens Television Foundation, 19 Grattan Street, Carlton VIC 3053. Phone: (03) 348 1144. Fax: (03) 347 4194. Review of Koori Band Blackfire "A Time To Dream" Congratulations to CAAMA Music for their signing of Melbourne band Blackfire. The recently formed band have already established an impressive following from the eastern centre of Australia. Their songs mainly deal with issues facing 'urban Kooris'. Interestingly, they have confronted 'black issues' while not scaring away white people from their music. Songs like "Live Like Kooris" & "Wanna Go Back" showcase their Aboriginality while others like "Progress" and "Suits & Ties" give you an insight into their views regarding such issues as Indigenous land rights & the environment. The music moves at a fast pace and can really get a person going, not something to listen to when you are trying to relax. Blackfire's first release CD is available through CAAMA Music (tel: 089 523 744) and will be distributed nationally in good record stores through Mushroom Records Review courtesy of NIMAA News DON'T WORRY: IT'S ALL IN THE STARS North West FM (3NOW) recently received these comforting words from an interested listener. "I saw your notice in the Whats on Column of the local paper last night whilst we were experiencing an Eclipse at 19 degrees Taurus (Taurus is associated with money, sex, power, personal prosperity, personal values, self-worth, self-esteem and personal growth). I felt I should bring it to your attention and let you know the Universe seems to be with you. May the stars guide your progress and the future plans for the development of radio station FM 98.9. By the way, your numbers even add up to an 8 which is great for business." MSO Q & A As Membership Services Officer, I get lots of calls and letters asking for clariification of the rules and regulations of broadcasting. Here's a few Q & A's: Q: Can we play 'popular' music under sponsorship announcements, if we pay our APRA fees?" A: Absolutely not. 'Popular', 'mainstream', or 'commercially released' music can not be mixed as a music bed under sponsorship announcements without the permission of the composer. When you hear popular music in advertising on commercial networks, the advertiser has reached an agreement with the composer/ holder of rights to use the music. These agreements often reach the $10,000's. "Jingler' or 'production music' can be used under sponsorship as long as the $250 p.a. AMCOS fee is paid. Q: What is the situation with media blackouts during elections? A: The blackout, which recently has been on, off and on again, applies to state and federal elections. Local elections are exempt. The blackout requires that no political advertising or platforms may be broadcast for three days before polling (ie. cut out time is usually Wednesday midnight for a Saturday election). Discussion of election issues, in good faith, is allowed. Q: How many community stations are there in Australia? A: There are 130 licenced community radio stations, although two are believed to have folded (4RRR & 6HCR). 112 are members of the CBAA. The ABA has a listing of 80 aspirant radio groups, with 40 being current CBAA members. CTV: the government has offered 5 temporary CTV licenses to broadcast on Channel 31 (Brisbane, Lismore, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide) with several aspirants currently test broadcasting. Telecom is in the process of experimenting with community cable. There are many additional CTV program making groups. Christina Alvarez, Membership Services Officer, can be contacted at the CBAA on (02) 310 2999. CBAA National Committee President Kaye Blackman VP Radio Chris Holliday VP TV Rita Freeman Staff Rep Stafford Sanders Members John Evans Andrew Nicholson Paul Strickland Bill Yarrow Women's Rep Cath Dwyer