Vale John Lindrea

Some sad news with the passing this afternoon of Austereo Melbourne Producer John Lindrea. Johnno who passed away at around 2pm was very much loved by those at Austereo and ARN production and no doubt he will be sadley missed by all. Vale Johnno.

Charlie King going for gold!

Charlie King, the ABC's first Indigenous broadcaster selected to cover an Olympic Games, is about to take his place among the highly experienced Grandstand commentary team.

"I'm really excited," Charlie said. "It is difficult to get your head around it because this is the biggest sporting event in the world. I've been to AFL grand finals and the test cricket and all those things where there are massive audiences tuned in around the country but then when you think of this - it's the big one."



Charlie King is more than just a sports commentator. He's considered an icon in the Northern Territory where he's been the voice of ABC Grandstand since 1994.

Born in Alice Springs, Charlie describes himself as an Irish-Scottish-Gurindji man who, away from the microphone, is recognised for his work to improve the lives of Indigenous people in the Territory.

"Being an Indigenous person and being given the opportunity to go the Olympic Games is very, very important for me," he said.

"I've had many calls from people around the country and across the NT saying 'Good on you. Do well. We'll be listening'. You feel a little bit of pressure from that but you also feel proud."

His family are so excited that some of them are flying to Darwin just to see him off.

"It's almost like I'm going to compete," Charlie laughed. "I've got to remind them that I'm going there to work. I suppose they think I'll be standing at the airport wearing the Australian tracksuit or something."

Executive Producer Peter Longman said Charlie is a great addition to the games team.

"He's a vastly experienced broadcaster as is Quentin Hull, from Brisbane, who is also off on his first Olympic Games. I think your first games you do get a bit overawed in some ways about just how big they are. It's obviously the pinnacle of a sports broadcaster's career to be chosen to cover an Olympics."

Our proud record as an Olympic Games broadcaster - unbroken since 1936 - continues with ABC Local Radio's presence at the Beijing games.

For the first time, however, the coverage will not be heard across the entire network. This follows the decision of the commercial radio rights holder 2GB to exclude 702 ABC Sydney listeners from receiving full games commentary.

"This breaks our long-held record of broadcasting to all Australians from every Olympic Games in the modern era," Peter said. "We're extremely disappointed that despite our efforts to include Sydney we were unsuccessful."

An experienced and skilled team of 28 broadcasters, journalists and technical staff will bring punters more than 180 hours of coverage over the two weeks of the games, from August 8.

The team will be aiming for broadcast gold.

"Australian listeners won't miss a thing in Beijing and that will make them feel like they're part of the action," Peter said.

Commentator Tracey Holmes will be playing her part covering a range of sports. This is her seventh games and she brings a unique perspective to Grandstand's coverage, drawing on her experience living in China and working as a presenter on China Central Television.

She's expecting an "absolutely sensational" event with total dominance by China.

"Since they've come back into the Olympics they've crept up the medal tally to second last time round in Athens," Tracey said. "There's only one spot further to go and of course they're going to want to achieve that in China. If they don't, there will be major trouble and it will reveal a whole lot of fault lines in all sorts of other areas in China."

Audiences will also be kept up-to-date by radio and TV news and current affairs and online, through the ABC's Olympics website, abc.net.au/olympics

The ABC's online coverage is bigger and better than ever and for the first time we will have a correspondent, Shane McLeod, dedicated to online reporting.

Executive Producer Stuart Watt says the site will feature as much audio and video as is possible within the rights restrictions. "This will include web-only material such as extended interviews, press conferences and interviews, as well as stories about China."

Other features will include audio diaries from members of the Grandstand commentary team and "a massive improvement in the way results are presented".

The time zone has major implications for online traffic, Stuart explained. "The swimming finals this year are scheduled around lunchtime which means the primary methods of keeping in touch with what's happening will be via the website as lots of people will be at work," he said.

B105 announcer back with The Veronicas Lisa Origliasso?

B105's Ryan Tothill, is rumoured to have recaptured the heart of The Veronicas Lisa Origliasso. The pair split around 18 months ago, with Origliasso later becoming involved with former Australian Idol star Dean Geyer.

Manufacturers and retailers join forces on Digital Radio

Commercial radio press release: Many of Australia’s leading retailers and manufacturers of digital radio products have joined forces to ensure a united effort in launching digital radio onto the Australian commercial market later this year.

Meeting for the first time with radio industry executives yesterday in Sydney, Australia’s leading retailers and manufacturers have formed the Broadcasters, Retailers and Receiver Manufacturers Digital Radio Advisory Group, which will meet on a monthly basis to discuss strategy for the launch of digital radio


The group includes senior representatives from retailers Harvey Norman, Domayne, Clive Peeters, Dick Smith and manufacturers like Philips, Samsung, Yamaha, Revo, Bush Australia and Pure Australasia. Other leading retailers such as Bing Lee, Target, Myer, David Jones, Strathfield Group and JB Hi Fi have also been invited to join the group as have other manufacturers including Panasonic, TEAC, Sony, Pioneer and JVC.

Broadcasters from the major networks involved in the launch including Austereo, DMG, ARN and Sky Racing also attended to outline the broadcasters’ position.

Chief executive officer of Commercial Radio Australia, Joan Warner said discussions at the inaugural meeting focussed on the marketing and communications plan for digital radio, information on training and education for retailers as well as product availability and price.

“Overseas experience shows us that for digital radio to succeed the radio industry must work closely with retailers and manufacturers to ensure everyone is well prepared for the digital switch-on,” Ms Warner said.

“It is a significant feat bringing retailers and manufacturers together, particularly those with competitive commercial interests, but it is essential that discussions on a uniform approach to timelines and various issues, like training and marketing have begun.“

Ms Warner said the industry wanted to communicate with all stakeholders in the lead-up to the digital switch-on date, but manufacturers and retailers were essential for a successful start.

“This is essentially the launch of a new technology so there is lots to be discussed both now and in coming months – training for retailers is vital and we are well underway in developing training modules and content for retailers’ own training programs. Equally how everyone fits in the overall launch of the technology and ensuring we all work together is crucial,” Ms Warner said.
She said an important issue discussed at the meeting was the tracking of receiver sales to provide critical feedback to all those involved in the launch of digital radio.

Hamish & Andy bound for Beijing

Today Network 's # 1 drive duo are heading abroad again and this time their destination is China.Hamish & Andy will be broadcasting their radio show live from Beijing for one week, as of Monday 11th August to the Friday 15th August inclusive. The boys are looking forward to experiencing the joys of Beijing and plan to meet as many Aussies as possible that are over there at the same time. But why are Hamish & Andy venturing to China? "A fortune cookie told us to go, but coincidently there's apparently a massive sporting event happening at the same time , " said Andy. Hamish also believed " it seemed a better idea to go to Bejiing than doing the show from Chinatown and hoping no one noticed."

Clear Channel unveils online radio network

Clear Channel Communications Inc. said Monday it will launch an online radio network that offers over 900 stations, including independent online stations. [link=http://news.smh.com.au/technology/clear-channel-unveils-online-radio-network-20080729-3meu.html]MORE[/link]

Peas in a pod, um, cast!

Wendy Harmer reigned supreme on FM breakfast radio for more than a decade. Angela Catterns was the darling of the ABC who once managed to topple Alan Jones in the ratings.
The two former queens of radio have formed an unlikely alliance to present their own podcast show for the ABC's local radio network. It's boutique broadcasting - a weekly radio show posted on the internet for listeners to tune into by computer or to download on their portable music players. FULL STORY SMH

Sonia & Todd's 150th Show

Sonia Kruger and Todd McKenney will be airing their 150th radio show this morning on Mix 106.5.




Highlights on today's show include a studio visit by Sonia's sister Deb Kruger...and Todd's reaction to the first Mix 106.5 staff meeting he attended! And interviews with Lauren Jackson and City Homicide star Peter O'Brien. [link=http://www.mixmornings.com.au]Check out more here[/link]

Kevin John to stay on Magic breakfast

Kevin John will stay on Magic 1278 breakfast with Ann Gilding. Kevin has been filling in since the sudden retirement of Andrew McLaren on the 30th of June. Audio here

3MP and 1116 SEN cash flow positive

Pacific Star, which operates radio stations 1116SEN and 3MP, was cash flow positive in the June year — the first time in its history. [link=http://business.theage.com.au/business/cash-flows-on-radio-waves-20080726-3ldk.html]Full story The Age [/link]

Mandi Wicks quits Nova 969 and Vega 95.3

DMG's Mandi Wicks has quit her long running general manager role of Nova 969 and Vega 95.3. She will leave the stations on October 30 opting to spend more time with her young family. DMG’s managing director, Cathy O’Connor has started the process of finding a replacement for Mandi.

Ken "KG" Cunningham announces his retirement from FIVEaa drive

After 17 years Ken "KG" Cunningham will depart the FIVEaa Sports show from the end of this year.
FIVEaa general manager Paul Bartlett said his station wanted KG to leave the weekday drive show at his peak. He will continue with FIVEaa's top-rating Saturday Sports Show and with its AFL coverage next year.


KG has had a record run in hosting drive radio in Adelaide and prior to joining FIVEaa he spent 15 years at 5DN in a similar role.

Helmes segments now available on Fairfax Digital Courier

Helmes Media Solutions has taken another giant leap forward with the announcement their segments will now be available to stations on the Fairfax Digital Courier service.

General Manager of Helmes Media Solutions Joel Helmes says the Fairfax Digital Courier will give his organization even more presence in the radio industry.

“We just felt that while traditional delivery methods were reliable we want to make sure that accessing and using our segments is as easy and convenient as possible for the stations”.



“What great exposure it is for us as well, our segments are now available for download in every radio station in Australia”.

Helmes Media Solutions continues to experience rapid growth according to Mr. Helmes.

“Just in the last few days we have started supplying our segments to stations such as bay FM 99.3 Port Stephens, 2BH Broken Hill and 4GY Gympie”.

“Our new segment “New Horizons” is also proving a hit”.

Helmes Media Solutions segments will be available on Fairfax Digital Courier from next week.

Swimmer Nick D'Arcy joins Hot 91

Dumped Olympic hopeful Nick D'Arcy is about join the breakfast team at Sunshine Coast radio station Hot 91. From next Monday, 28 July, D'Arcy will join Ronnie Stanton, Todd Widdicombe and Sami Muirhead, in a bid to bring an insight into the August Games.

Finalists announced for 2008 Radio Awards

The battle for Best On-Air Team will be fiercely contested this year between The Hamish and Andy Show (Fox FM 101.9), The Kyle and Jackie O Show (2Day FM), Merrick and Rosso and Kate Ritchie (Nova 969) and Michelle and Smallzy in Brisbane (Nova 106.9) – all announced as finalists today for the 2008 Australian Commercial Radio Awards (ACRAs). 2DayFM’s Kyle Sandilands and Jackie O have won this award for the past two years and Nova’s Merrick and Rosso are also past winners. [link=http://www.radiorumours.com/2008list.pdf]List of finalists here[/link]

The well-known on-air teams will join many of Australia’s radio personalities and talking heads from across metropolitan, regional and country stations as finalists in the 20th annual ACRAs, with the winners to be announced at a gala ceremony at Conrad Jupiters on the Gold Coast on October 11.


Another hotly contested category this year is Best Talk Presenter. Finalists include the winner for the past two years, Neil Mitchell (3AW) as well as Derryn Hinch (3AW), Ray Hadley (2GB) and Leon Byner (5AA, Adelaide). The Best Current Affairs Commentator category will be decided between last year’s winner, Neil Mitchell (3AW) along with Derryn Hinch (3AW), Ray Hadley (2GB), Steve Price (2UE) and Leon Byner (5AA, Adelaide).

Last year’s winner for Best Music Personality, Jabba (Nova 969) joins other finalists Dave Williams (Triple M, Melbourne), Mike Fitzpatrick (Triple M, Melbourne), Rod Maldon (The Irod) (Fox FM 101.9), Emily Jade O’Keefe (Nova 106.9) and Jamie Row (Nova 969), to battle it out for the winner of this coveted category.

The winner of Best Sports Presenter last year, Clinton Grybas (3AW Sports) has been posthumously entered into the same category this year and is a finalist along with Ray Hadley (2GB Sports), Brian Taylor (Triple M Sports) and Ken Cunningham (5AA Sports).

Finalists in the Best Newcomer On-Air category include Wil Anderson (Triple M Network), Charlie Pickering (Triple M, Melbourne), Cal Wilson (Nova 100) and Ian ‘Dicko” Dickson (Vega 91.5, Melbourne).

There are eight finalist in the prestigious Best News Presenter (metropolitan) category including for AM, Denis O’Kane (3AW), Gail Watson (4BC), Chris Rieger (4KQ) and Steve Blanda (2UE). For FM, finalists include last year’s winner, Kristy Warner (Nova 969), Glenn Daniel (WS FM), Geoff Field (2Day FM) and Monique Dews (Vega 95.3).

This year’s ACRAs will be hosted by Australian Idol co-host, Andrew G, who also hosts Australia’s biggest weekly radio countdown, “Take 40 Australia”.

Organised by Commercial Radio Australia, on behalf of the radio industry, the national Awards include 32 categories, which cover all areas of radio broadcasting including news, talk, sport, music and entertainment. The ACRAs differ from television’s Logie Awards, in that they are peer judged with judging panels comprised of industry members. Winners are announced in each category across three areas: metropolitan, provincial and country commercial radio stations. This year there is one new category – Best Multimedia Execution, which has been introduced to recognise innovative multimedia campaigns which involve listeners, using a website and podcasts, mobile phones or other multimedia applications.

More investigations?

2WKT, AKA HighlandFM is allegedly under investigation by the ACMA for 2 more counts of violations . It is further alleged there are further investigations happening into the station by the ACMA and the Office of Fair Trading.

If the allegations are found to be correct the station runs the risk of losing its license. In other similar situations the ACMA and OOFT have allowed stations to continue to operate under the proviso the membership removes the offending parties.

It is arguable that they view the membership as culpable if they allow such alleged activities to continue.

Expiry of temporary community radio licence in Cobar, NSW

Media release: The Australian Communications and Media Authority has become aware of media reports that it has decided not to renew the temporary community broadcasting licence of Cobar Community Radio Inc (CCR), because it ‘does not meet the minimum requirements for local programming’. This is not correct.

CCR, which uses the on-air identifier 2HOT FM, holds a temporary community broadcasting licence to provide a service to Cobar, New South Wales, for the period 22 January 2008 to 21 July 2008.


On 4 June 2008, ACMA called for applications in the Cobar Age for temporary use of the 102.9 MHz frequency in the Cobar RA2 licence area from 22 July 2008 onwards. ACMA then wrote to CCR on 10 June 2008 to invite the licensee to submit an application for a further temporary community broadcasting licence.

CCR informed ACMA in a telephone call on 14 July 2008 that it did not intend to apply for a further temporary community broadcasting licence.

As CCR has declined to apply for another temporary community broadcasting licence and no other applications have been received, use of the frequency will lapse after the 2HOT temporary community broadcasting licence expires on 21 July 2008.

2HOT has been operating on a temporary community broadcasting licence to serve the general geographic area of Cobar after ACMA decided not to renew CCR’s long-term licence on 20 December 2007, which expired on 21 January 2008.

In deciding not to renew 2HOT’s long-term licence, ACMA found that the licensee had not adequately identified the needs of the community and that its service did not adequately meet the needs of the Cobar licence area.

The licensee’s management capacity and ability to comply with licence conditions also concerned ACMA. Encouraging members of the community to participate in the operation of the service and providing sound corporate governance are essential requirements for community broadcasters. The licensee’s inability to meet legislative requirements contributed to ACMA deciding to not renew the long term licence.

Media contact: Donald Robertson, ACMA Media Manager, on (02) 9334 7980.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Backgrounder
Cobar Community Radio Inc. (2HOT)
On 20 December 2007, ACMA decided not to renew the long-term community radio broadcasting licence held by Cobar Community Radio Inc. (2HOT), which expired on 21 January 2008.

ACMA found that the licensee had not adequately identified the needs of the community and that the service did not adequately meet the needs of the Cobar licence area. ACMA’s media release announcing the non-renewal of the 2HOT long-term community broadcasting licence is available.

Consequently, ACMA made available the 102.9 MHz frequency for temporary community broadcasting purposes. It issued a six-month temporary community broadcasting licence to CCR with effect from 22 January 2008.

CCR has declined to apply for another temporary community broadcasting licence.

Community broadcasting licences
As at 30 June 2008, there were:

353 long-term community radio broadcasting licences, of which 78 were remote Indigenous broadcasting services (RIBS)
52 temporary community broadcasting licences
18 community radio licences renewed with remedial actions, 1 where additional conditions were imposed and 17 with agreed measures
11 licences not renewed, of which 6 were RIBS services that had not provided licence renewal applications and whose licences had therefore lapsed.
Renewal process for long-term community broadcasting licences
ACMA reminds licensees to lodge their long-term community radio licence renewal form one year before their licence is due to expire.

When a renewal application is received, ACMA conducts an assessment and investigation of the licence. This may take up to 12 months. The Broadcasting Services Act 1992 (the Act) was amended in 2002 so that, in deciding whether to renew a licence, ACMA can take into account the same matters that it took into account when allocating the licence.

During the period of assessment and investigation, a licensee may be asked to provide an explanation of its answers. If insufficient information has been provided, ACMA may also ask the licensee for additional material. The assessment and investigation includes a review of the licensee’s record of compliance with the Act, licence conditions and codes of practice.

Community broadcasting services
Community broadcasting services are relevantly defined as being broadcasting services that:

are provided for community purposes; and
are not operated for profit or as part of a profit-making enterprise; and
provide programs that are able to be received by commonly available equipment and are made available free to the general public.
Community radio broadcasting services are intended to serve the needs and interests of particular communities. Licensees are required to encourage members of the community they have been licensed to serve to participate in the operation and the programming of the service.

What is a temporary community broadcasting licence?
A temporary community broadcasting licence (TCBL) authorises aspirant community radio broadcasters to provide temporary broadcasting services. TCBLs may be allocated for a period of up to 12 months. A TCBL cannot be renewed. However, a licensee providing a service under a TCBL may apply for a new TCBL before its existing TCBL expires.

TCBLs help to foster the development of community broadcasting by giving groups interested in applying for a long-term community radio licence the opportunity to develop the range of operational, programming and other skills necessary to successfully operate a community broadcasting service.

TCBLs help groups build community support for their service by allowing them to identify the needs of the community they propose to serve, and providing programming that caters to those needs, and encouraging the participation of the community in the service.

Who may apply for a TCBL?
An applicant for a TCBL must be a company that:

is formed in Australia or an external Territory; and
represents a community interest.
A 'company' includes an incorporated association.

An applicant for a TCBL must be a not-for-profit, locally based, representative organisation. It should have clearly defined purposes and transparent, non-discriminatory membership rules.

Allocation of TCBLs
In deciding whether to allocate a TCBL, ACMA is not to have regard to matters it considers when allocating a long-term community broadcasting licence. These include:

the extent that the proposed service would meet the needs of the community in an area;
the nature and diversity of the interests of that community;
the nature and diversity of other broadcasting services in that area; and
the capacity of the applicant to provide the service.
ACMA may have regard to:

the undesirability of one person being in a position to exercise control of more than one community broadcasting licence that is a broadcasting services bands licence in the same licence area; and
the undesirability of the Commonwealth, a State or a Territory or a political party being in a position to exercise control of a TCBL.

ACMA may decide not to allocate a TCBL if the applicant previously held a TCBL but did not provide a broadcasting service under that TCBL.

ACMA must not allocate a TCBL if it has decided that the applicant is an ‘unsuitable’ applicant in the terms set out in the Act.

Licence periods
ACMA will allocate TCBLs for periods of up to 12 months.

ACMA may receive valid applications for TCBLs to broadcast programs on spectrum that is already occupied by one or more temporary broadcasters. In this situation, ACMA will align the licence periods for all services by determining the licence period for new temporary broadcasting services to start on the day after the end of the licence period for existing broadcasting services using the same spectrum.

Timing conditions
Timing conditions specify the times in which the licence allows a temporary community broadcasting service to be provided.

In determining the timing conditions and the licence period of a TCBL, ACMA is to have regard to:

any other applications for TCBLs in the licence area of the proposed licence; and
any other TCBLs in the licence area of the proposed licence; and
such other matters as ACMA thinks fit.
Sharing spectrum
When there is only one applicant for a TCBL, ACMA will determine timing conditions to allow full-time broadcasting (that is, 24 hours, seven days a week).

When more than one TCBL is allocated to broadcast on the same spectrum in an area, timing conditions will determine when each licensee may broadcast its service. When licensees must share spectrum, ACMA will set timing conditions in accordance with times agreed to by the applicants. If the applicants cannot agree on how time is to be shared, ACMA will make the decision. ACMA has prepared guidelines for the sharing of spectrum in these circumstances. The guidelines are available on ACMA’s website.

Hold a massive party and hope for a radio gig!

Perth man Tim van den Akker, 21, wants to attract a record number of people to his party that has been advertised on his Facebook page. The end result he hopes will be a job as a radio announcer (what ever happened to radio school and five years in the bush?) and the party organising might help his chances of success in the media.
So far more than 13,000 people had been invited via Facebook, with the overwhelming success of the venture sparking a new national party planning business idea soon to be launched.
[link=http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=26367161351]Check out his Facebook page here[/link]

3TR FM and GOLD 1242 knock 30 cents a litre off petrol

Ace radio's Gippsland stations 3TR FM and GOLD 1242 ran a very popular promotion last Thursday. In conjunction with Mobil GPG Traralgon they slashed the price of a litre of petrol by 30 cents for an hour which helped 174 struggling motorists fill their tanks. A total of 5068 litres of petrol sold during the hour. [link=http://latrobevalley.yourguide.com.au/news/local/news/news-features/its-cheap-but-not-easy/1100246.aspx]RELATED ITEM HERE[/link]

Hot Tomato drive to breakfast - breakfast to drive!

Hot Tomato drive team Paul Holmes and Sean Flanagan have been moved to the breakfast shift at the Gold Coast station. Survivng breakfast presenter Luke Bradnam will move to drive.

Station of the week: K ROCK Geelong

Our random station of the week is K ROCK Geelong . Check out their website by clicking on the banner below and [link=http://www.krock.com.au/index.html]listen live on line[/link]




Big Brother heading to DMG Adelaide

Current Big Brother voice Aaron Lucas is joining the newsroom of DMG's Fiveaa and Nova Adelaide. Lucas is no stranger to radio and will be on board in Adelaide inside the next four weeks.

Borne lacks home identity

Former Hobart musician Cameron Tapp loves Tasmania -- but his home state's commercial radio stations don't seem to show him much love in return.
Tapp fronts Borne, a Melbourne alt-rock group who made it big overseas last year when their song The Guide was chosen as single of the week on several of Apple's i-Tunes online music stores. [link=http://www.news.com.au/mercury/story/0,22884,24048124-3462,00.html]Full story here[/link]

ABC journalist arrested on drug charges

The ABC's South Asia correspondent Peter Lloyd is facing drugs charges after being arrested in Singapore. The 41-year-old was arrested earlier this week. He faces up to 20 years jail and 15 strokes of the cane if found guilty of drug charges. Lloyd joined the ABC in 1988, working in the Sydney television newsroom for three years before moving to Britain to work for the BBC and British Sky News. In 2000, he returned to ABC television news and later worked for national radio current affairs programs AM, The World Today and PM. [link=http://livenews.com.au/Articles/2008/07/18/EXCLUSIVE_ABC_journalist_Peter_Lloyd_arrested_on_drug_charges_in_Singapore]LIVENEWS REPORT[/link]

Mike Byrne heading to River 949

Mike Byrne has been appointed Program Director of River 94.9 Ipswich, effective the 28th of July 2008. He brings a wealth of programming experience in both capital city and regional sectors having previously held similar positions with Mix 1065 in Sydney, B105 in Brisbane and Gold 1043 in Melbourne. Mike quit his role with Mix 1065 in April and has more recently been heard on Vega 95.3 in a weekend/floating capacity.
River 949, which was previously part of Fairfax Media, has been with out a PD for over 3 years and this is the first major staff appointment by new owners Grant Broadcasters.

Silence on airwaves as Stretto switches off

Popular long-serving radio personality David Stretton will have his last day on air today and wants listeners to know he didn't jump - he was pushed.
"Stretto", as he is known by colleagues and fans, will sign off from i98FM at midday after nine years at the station.
A spokeswoman from WIN Radio told the Mercury on Tuesday Stretton "had just decided to move on" but Stretton and the station confirmed yesterday this was not true. [link=http://illawarra.yourguide.com.au/news/local/news/general/silence-on-airwaves-as-stretto-switches-off-mike/844378.aspx]FULL STORY HERE[/link]

ACMA to develop new representation guidelines for community broadcasters

The Australian Communications and Media Authority today announced its latest community broadcasting initiative to develop new guidelines for community broadcasters to better help them comply with their licence conditions.

This initiative closely follows ACMA’s release of the Community Broadcasting Sponsorship Guidelines 2008 in June. The favourable response to the sponsorship guidelines suggests that guidelines are an appropriate way in this section of the broadcasting industry of clarifying the necessary level of performance to meet compliance with licence obligations.



‘ACMA has extensively reviewed community broadcasting investigations for the past five years and several related issues, indeed a trend, emerged as a principal concern for complainants’, said Chris Chapman, ACMA Chairman. ‘The areas of concern included community participation, governance issues and licensees failing to meet the needs of their community.’

‘Additional guidelines should also enable ACMA to further implement recommendations of the House of Representatives Standing Committee report of June 2007, Tuning in to community broadcasting, particularly those relating to governance arrangements,’ Mr Chapman said.

The House of Representatives report included recommendations that the Australian Government, in conjunction with the sector’s peak bodies, develop a guiding template for the structure of boards and committees and that ACMA improve transparency in relation to decision-making about community broadcasting services.

Following further analysis of available data, ACMA will consult with relevant industry groups on the development of the draft guidelines and make them available for industry comment later this year.

Green Guide 17 July 2008

Given her success, it's surprising to discover Ali Moore has suffered many career setbacks.
"I wanted to be an air hostess when I was younger," says the ABC Lateline Business host who, starting Monday, will cover Jon Faine's 774 ABC morning shift for the rest of the year. Read the entire article [link=http://www.theage.com.au/news/tv--radio/moore-warms-faines-throne/2008/07/16/1216162936726.html]here[/link]

Dylan Lewis wins $20,000 for the Choir Of Hard Knocks

Nova 100's Dylan Lewis has won $20,000 for the Choir Of Hard Knocks on the second episode of Channel 9's Celebrity Singing Bee.

Sonia and Todd mix it with the pilgrims

With the World Youth Day moving into full swing in Sydney today Mix FM's Sonia and Todd took to the streets to get amongst the pilgrims. Although they were a little early to see the Pope they did manage to catch up with a number of interesting characters.

Is Dunn done?

Could this be Jamie Dunn’s last year on Coast airwaves? Rumours have emerged the Zinc 96 front man will finish up at the station in November. [link=http://www.thedaily.com.au/news/2008/jul/17/dunn-done/]Full story here[/link]

Phil O’Neil is back at Triple M

Phil O’Neil is back at Triple M and is set to take over the 6.00 to 10.00 pm slot from next Tuesday. O’Neil will present a music based program Tueday to Fridays. Related item [link=http://www.news.com.au/entertainment/story/0,26278,24026838-5013560,00.html]here[/link]

Viewsonic wins Round 1 of 2009 Siren Awards

An ad for Viewsonic, which rose to the challenge of a brief to “create a radio ad demonstrating superior picture quality” has won the overall and single categories for round one of the 2009 Siren Awards.

Written by Thomas Duncan-Watt from agency Gorilla Communications, Sydney, the ad called “Amazon” describes the picture quality of Viewsonic’s LCD monitors.



Judge and previous round winner, Josh Bryer from agency Mark in Sydney said the ad was a clear winner: “A great and simple idea, beautifully crafted, with excellent sound engineering. And a brilliant answer to a very tough brief.”

Mr Duncan-Watt said the challenge of the brief was also his inspiration: “I feel like it is the kind of radio ad that you can listen to several times and always hear something new. The level of detail and effort that went into the production is really evident in that way. Then again, for a machine that can produce more colours than a television screen, what better medium than radio?”

There were two highly commended entries in the single category. They were both written by Ryan Albuino and Andrew Chu from agency Marketforce in Perth for Lotterywest and were called “More Words – Weatherman” and “More Words – Pilot.”

These two ads were also part of a campaign of three ads that won the campaign category in this round for Lotterywest. The campaign was called “More Words.”
Judge and previous round winner, Josh Bryer from agency Mark in Sydney said about the campaign winner: “More Words is a clever and engaging idea, bought to life in three significantly different ways – all with good audio craftsmanship behind them.”

Highly commended in the campaign category was an ad called “Find Your Animal” for Perth Zoo, written by Kurt Beaudoin and Josh Edge, from agency, The Brand Agency in Perth.

Winner of the craft category was “Flying Knee” for the Epworth Foundation with sound engineer, James Ashton from production studio, Risk Sound in Melbourne.

The national Siren Awards are run by Commercial Radio Australia and are designed to recognise the best radio advertising in the country. The awards promote the importance of creativity as a way to make radio advertising more effective. Entries for round 2 for 2009 are now open and close on August 1. For more information and to listen visit the dedicated website [link=www.sirenawards.com.au.]www.sirenawards.com.au.[/link]

Station of the week: REBEL FM The Rock Station

Our random station of the week is REBEL FM. Check out their website by clicking on the banner below and [link=http://www.rebelfm.com.au/listen.html]listen live on line[/link]
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News Limited carsguide.com.au gets “Behind the Wheel”

Automotive website carsguide.com.au has become the new national sponsor of Behind the Wheel, a motoring segment broadcast on more than 40 radio stations across Australia every day.

Produced by Helmes Media Solutions, Behind the Wheel focuses on issues that affect motorists, such as record high petrol prices, road safety and car maintenance tips.

Behind the Wheel host Joel Helmes says the partnership with carsguide.com.au will further the impact of the segment.

“It’s a perfect fit” Helmes says.

“When we started Behind the Wheel last year we knew it would be a great vehicle for websites such as carsguide.com.au to reach a wider audience.

“People who love cars already visit carsguide.com.au and read the carsguide inserts in News Limited’s newspapers, but with Behind the Wheel we are actually getting the message in most cases directly to people in their cars.

“It also shows that Australia’s favourite motoring segment is here for the long run.”

carsguide.com.au editor Karla Pincott will now join Joel twice a week on Behind the Wheel to look at the latest auto news.

Joel Helmes says Pincott will add a new dimension to the segments content, “Karla adds a different dynamic with her passion for delivering stories and information that really relate to listeners.

“We are delighted to have Karla join our other expert regulars including road safety guru Russell White and the NRMA’s Jack Haley”.

Pincott welcomed carsguide.com.au’s association with Behind the Wheel.

“We have a particular focus to connect carsguide.com.au with regional Australia and Behind the Wheel is an excellent channel to help make that connection.
“I look forward to working with Joel and the Behind the Wheel team to reach drivers all around Australia with a wide range of automotive issues.”

Behind the Wheel can be heard weekdays on –

2GZ Orange 105.1fm, 2WG Wagga 1152am, 2CS Coffs Harbour 106.3fm, 2LF Young 1350am, 2LT Lithgow 900am, The River Albury 105.7fm, 4KZ 531am Innisfail, 4KZ 693am Tully, 4KZ 1620am Ingham, 4KZ 1611am Karumba, 4KZ 102.5fm Babinda, 4KZ 94.7fm Cardwell, 4KZ 88.5fm Dunk Island, 4AM Mareeba 558am and 1422am, Kool FM 98.3fm Innisfail, Kik FM 88.7fm Atherton and Mareeba, Easy mix 1026am Mackay, Crow FM 90.7fm Kingaroy, Easy Mix 1467am Mildura, 3BO Bendigo 95.3fm, 3GG Gippsland 531am, Flow FM 106.3fm Yarra Valley, Flow FM 89.3fm Marysville, 5SE Mt.Gambier, Coast FM 88.7fm Adelaide, Flow FM 99.5fm Barossa, Light & Mid North, Flow FM 98.9fm Southern Yorke Peninsula, Flow FM 90.9fm Northern Yorke Peninsula, Flow FM 97.7fm Murray Mallee, Flow FM 106.1fm West Coast Ceduna, Flow FM 99.3fm West Coast Streaky Bay, Flow FM 100.3fm Limestone Coast, Flow FM 96.5fm Border Mallee, Flow FM 95.5fm Kangaroo Island, Flow FM 107.3fm Southern Ports, Flow FM 101.7fm Woomera, Flow FM 99.7fm Coober Pedy, Flow FM 97.9fm Roxby Downs, Radio Goolarri 99.7fm Broome, Flow FM 100.5fm Tennant Creek and 1 WAY FM 91.9fm and 94.3fm Canberra.

Deniese Anderson joins Star FM Mildura

Ex 2GF Grafton news reader Deniese Anderson has joined the newsroom at Star FM /3MA FM Mildura.

Paul Dix celebrating 50 glorious years

2QN's Paul Dix will celebrate 50 years of radio later this week with a special dinner in Deniliquin. Paul has hosted breakfast for 46 years at 2QN and prior to that he was with 3MA in Mildura for 4 years. Congratulations Paul.

Jackie O kiss of death yet again

A Channel 10 insider has announced this will be the final series of Big Brother when the program concludes in just over a week.
Last November on our daily email digest of radionews we suggested the inclusion of 2DAY's Jackie O and Kyle Sandilands would be the final nail in the coffin of the already struggling Big Brother program.
Jackies track record of failed TV programs speaks for itself and include The Nation and Surprise, Surprise Gotcha, Under Cover Angels, Australian Princess, Popstars, Ground Zero, and Access All Areas for Foxtel.

Successful tenders announced for Digital Radio build

Successful tenders for the development of Digital Radio infrastructure in Australia have been announced today.

Chief executive officer of Commercial Radio Australia, Joan Warner, said the announcement represents a significant development in Australia’s migration to a Digital Radio platform.

“We are now literally building towards a new era, one that will deliver a multi-media experience to radio listeners, broadcasters and advertisers alike.



“The successful tenders have come through a competitive bidding process and will be working to our timelines to deliver the equipment that will make Digital Radio an exciting new media proposition,” Ms Warner said.

The successful tenders announced so far include:

Rohde & Schwarz (high power DAB+ transmitters)
Factum (DAB+ Multiplexers & coders)
The United Group (systems integration services & pre-build)
Kordia (project management support)

These organisations will be helping to develop the infrastructure for DAB+ radio, a standard that is also being adopted by other countries.

Free-to-air digital radio services will begin in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth from early 2009.

The Rock Of Ages EON FM

Today, twenty eight years ago 92.3 EON FM went to air for the first time from their Bank Street South Melbourne studio. .The following is what went to air to open the station "It's one past midnight and this is 92.3, E-O-N FM, I'm Peter Grace and this is the beginning of a long, long time..." The first track played being the Eagles [i]A new kid in town[/i].

Alas the long, long time was only eight years, although for some in radio that is an eternity, in 1988 EON FM became 3MMM.

Triple M today celebrated the birth of EON and paid tribute to a radio station that played a big part of life in Melbourne during the 1980's. Lee Simon, 'Captain' Karl Van Est and Peter Grace were on air from midday.


The station have put together a tribute page packed with features and well worth the visit [link=http://www.triplem.com.au/melbourne/shows/EON/index.html]here[/link]

Green Guide 10 July 2008

GEORGE McEncroe knows why Mix FM's Two Women & A Metro is shedding listeners. "It's Brigitte Duclos' fault," she says. "Tom Gleeson and I have been carrying her. Clearly she's the problem." Seriously, though, all the new breakfast shows are struggling to lure audiences from established programs, but Mix has suffered the biggest slump in the 5.30am to 9am slot, dropping from a 5.1% share to 3.7% in a few months.

Rival stations say the show isn't terrible, just bland. Which is strange, given that its hosts are not. Duclos was a star on Fox and Triple M, Gleeson is an accomplished comedian and McEncroe was a hit on Brisbane breakfast radio and as a regular Get This guest. READ THE ENTIRE ITEM [link=http://www.theage.com.au/news/tv--radio/good-folks-in-the-mix/2008/07/09/1215282907061.html]HERE[/link]

Catholic critic to spearhead SBS radio coverage

A former priest and controversial commentator on the Catholic Church will spearhead SBS' live radio broadcasts of World Youth Day next week.

Paul Collins is former long-time presenter and anchor of the ABC’s religious affairs programme “The Religion Report”. Full report SBS[link=http://news.sbs.com.au/worldnewsaustralia/catholic_critic_to_spearhead_sbs_radio_coverage_551371 here[/link]

Metro Radio Advertising Continues to Grow

Commercial radio : Advertising revenue at metropolitan commercial radio stations has grown by a further 5.76 percent to $654.5 million during the 12 months to the end of June 2008, according to figures released today by Commercial Radio Australia.

The figures, sourced by Price Waterhouse Coopers, show Perth led the way with growth of 17.80 percent year-to-date (YTD) end of June 2008. Brisbane is up 10.90 percent YTD, Melbourne is up 6.65 percent YTD and Adelaide is up 6.51 percent YTD, while the Sydney market remained relatively stable with a slight decrease of just 1.17 percent YTD.



The Sydney commercial radio station market accounted for $218.7 million of advertising revenue during the financial year, Melbourne recorded revenue of $186 million, Brisbane $104.5 million, Perth $83 million and Adelaide $62 million.

Joan Warner, chief executive officer of Commercial Radio Australia, said the latest figures show that radio remains a powerful advertising proposition, with even greater opportunities ahead.

“Commercial radio ad revenue has now increased every year for the past six years,” Ms Warner said.
Ms Warner added that the link between radio and online presented a significant opportunity for commercial radio stations and many had invested significantly in developing their online presence in recent times.
“Radio and the internet are both instant, conversational media that appeal to the connected generation, so there are clear benefits in using radio and online advertising in combination. The launch of digital radio in 2009 will also give radio a new lease of life,” Ms Warner said.

Are Merrick and Rosso quitting?

The rumours on Merrick and Rosso (and Kate) have been doing the rounds this week and today the Courier Mail reports
After seven successful years riding the FM radio airwaves, Nova 969 duo Merrick Watts and Tim Ross are believed to be hanging up their headphones at the end of 2008.

While rumours of creative friction with their newest recruit Kate Ritchie are said to be unfounded, the funny fellas are aiming to expand their showbiz careers beyond the dial and are planning to sign off from the Nova network in November.

Nova's general manager Mandi Wicks moved to shut down the situation yesterday, saying management "couldn't be happier" with the team, but a station insider has revealed the breakfast boys are "well and truly over" the gig. Full story Courier Mail [link=http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/story/0,23739,23991360-5012980,00.html]here[/link]

Anderson with Austereo until 2010

Michael Anderson,Austereo CEO, has had his renewed his contract with Austereo renewed until 2010.

Big Brother's Dixie Charity Auction for beyondblue

HypeFM's Dixie will auction her Big Brother running shoes on Australian online auction site OZtion to raise awareness for beyondblue, the national independent not-for-profit organisation that seeks to address issues associated with depression, anxiety and related substance misuse disorders in Australia. She will be auctioning the jogging shoes that Big Brother gave her, with all proceeds going to beyondblue.

Dixie is a mental health worker and is studying sports psychology. She said she was passionate about supporting beyondblue, an initiative supported by the federal and state governments.

Dixie Crawford, from Dubbo, was the outgoing country girl that had one of the strongest personalities in the Big Brother house this year. Big Brother gave Dixie the pair of joggers because she kept asking for a pair so she could keep fit in the house. ''I am passionate in my support of mental health issues and I hope this auction raises awareness of the services and support that beyondblue provides to people from all walks of life who suffer from some form of depression or anxiety,'' Dixie said. ''It would be great to raise a bit of money, but also bring attention to beyondblue and maybe let some young people know they are not alone out there and there are support services that do exist for them.'' Spending 35 days inside the Big Brother house,

Dixie was eventually evicted earlier this month after actually nominating herself for eviction. Since leaving the house Dixie has returned to home town Broken Hill to host the breakfast show on local radio station Hype FM.

The show called “Dixie’s Big Breakfast” will consist of celebrity chat and gossip, interviews with Big Brother evictee’s and inside information on the housemates. The joggers will be put up for auction on OZtion (www.oztion.com.au) on the 7th of July for a duration of two weeks. Click [link=http://www.oztion.com.au/auction/4792119.aspx ]here[/link] to view the auction: For all those Big Brother fans out there, here is a chance to own a piece of Big Brother memorabilia and help depression in Australia.

About OZtion
OZtion is an Australian online auction site, based on unique Australian designed and developed technology. Located in Melbourne, OZtion has grown enormously to become the 2nd largest Australian online auction site. Visit [link=www.oztion.com.au ]www.oztion.com.au [/link]for more

Media Watch Kyle and Jackie - Oh

ABC's Media Watch have featured TodayFM's Kyle Sandilands and Jackie O highlighting the suitability and content of their breakfast program. Read the entire Media Watch item [link=http://www.abc.net.au/mediawatch/transcripts/s2296866.htm]here[/link]

Digging deep for kids

The Give Me Five for Kids appeal has raised more than $268,429 to help improve the quality of care and equipment in the children’s wards of Coast hospitals.

The Mix FM radio station appeal, which was supported by the Sunshine Coast Daily, involved a range of community events including lawn bowls days and corporate golf days.

One of the highlights was a “wheelie bin walk” which consisted of three teams that walked from one end of the Sunshine Coast to the other, finishing at the Nambour Hospital. Full story [link=http://www.thedaily.com.au/news/2008/jul/07/digging-deep-kids/]here[/link]

Grab a bite of the wheel!

Helmes Media have produced 90 one off 45 second bite size segments of their popular Behind The Wheel program. These segments are 45 seconds in duration and have room on the tail for local station or sponsor IDs. Behind the Wheel – Bite Size could be a great value for a new client so if you have been thinking about including it into your stations schedule there has never been a better time! Best of all they are completely FREE to Behind the Wheel stations and you can play them whenever you want.

Check out a demo on-line at [link=www.helmes.com.au/page/radio_segments.html]here[/link]

OB Van available now on EBAY

[left][/left]
Check out this fully fitted ready to go Outside Broadcast van, The perfect promotional tool for your station and it is available now on EBAY [link=http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=140247066264&ssPageName=STRK:MESE:IT&ih=004]here[/link] or for more details contact Steve 02 9686-2065. He will be happy to answer any further questions or provide an inspection.

Station of the week: 5SE 963 Mt Gambier



5SE 963 AM Mt Gambier is our random station of the week. Click on the banner and check out their website.

Vega's Chrissie is a Rockstar!

For the last 8 weeks Vega 91.5 breakfast co-host Chrissie Swan has been completing a Rockstar Experience course. She has learnt what it takes to become a ROCKSTAR, from singing in a band to hair and makeup, the works! Chrissie took to the stage last night and gave it her all! Despite forgetting the lyrics and Dicko and Dave trying to outshine her, Chrissie was a wonderful rockstar! Listen [link=http://audio.dmgradio.com.au/vega915/brekky/rockstarmontage.mp3]here[/link]

Hamish and Andy Gravy Chips continue to take EBAY by storm.

Hamish and Andy inspired Smiths to produce The Gravy flavoured potato chip recently and the limited edition product has been selling for record amounts on EBAY. The 100gram bags of chips are part of a 60 thousand limited production run and at this stage will not be available for retail sale. [link=http://search.ebay.com.au/gravy-chips_W0QQfromZR40QQfrtsZ0]Check them on EBAY here [/link]

Kate admits Nova friction

BREAKFAST radio team Merrick, Rosso and Kate Ritchie have admitted their partnership delivered creative friction but refused to indulge industry rumours they were at loggerheads.

Merrick Watts labelled as untrue persistent industry speculation that he and comedic partner Tim Ross were upset about Ritchie's addition to their morning team.

"No matter who you put in that chair it's going to be bumpy - not in the sense of having blow-ups or personality clashes. It was just about getting the cogs to mesh properly,'' Watts said.
[link=http://www.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/story/0,22049,23974723-5001021,00.html]Full story Sunday Telegraph[/link]

Whopping amount raised for Give Me 5 For Kids

Star FM’s Give Me 5 For Kids campaign raised a whopping $46,010.05 for the children’s ward at Dubbo Base Hospital.
The announcement was made yesterday afternoon by the Star FM radio team, lead by breakfast announcers Ali and Dazza.
“We’d like to thank the entire community for their generous support throughout the month of June,” Dazza said. “To raise these much-needed funds for the kids of Dubbo and across the region is a fantastic effort.” [link=http://dubbo.yourguide.com.au/news/local/news/general/whopping-amount-raised-for-give-me-5-for-kids/804070.aspx] Related item here[/link]

Paul Thompson stands down, creates new CEO post

PAUL Thompson, founder of DMG Radio Australia which owns the Nova and Vega stations, has today announced he will resign his executive role 12 years after starting the business.

He has handed over executive responsibility to DMG's managing director Cathy O'Connor who takes the new role of CEO.

Mr Thompson will remain the chairman of the unlisted group but in a non-executive capacity.

"Cathy O'Connor is an outstanding executive and a fine person. I'm proud we have someone of such calibre in our organisation and as CEO she will have he guidance and support of the most talented executive team in our industry," Mr Thompson said.
[link=thttp://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,23967494-7582,00.html] Full story The Australian [/link]

Alan Jones has cancer

2GB Broadcaster Alan Jones has prostate cancer but says he has no plans to give up radio. "We don't do dying around here. We just try and make the most of living," Jones said after revealing his condition at Macquarie Radio's Sydney studios today.
The 67-year-old radio host was diagnosed with cancer in May but kept it secret until this week.
He says he has good prospects of a full recovery following surgery in about two weeks, and will remain on air until the eve of the operation at Sydney's St Vincent's Hospital. [link=http://www.theage.com.au/news/tv--radio/b-health-shock-b-alan-jones-diagnosed-with-prostate-cancer/2008/07/03/1214950935548.html ]More details The Age[/link]

Funny People Needed, Seriously

Helmes Media Solutions are always developing new and exciting program ideas and are currently looking for young talent interested in beginning their career in commercial radio. What Helmes Media are looking for specifically are people who could contribute to a new radio comedy segment. So if you think you’re funny, send them a demo via email here, this could be the start of something big!

ABC Media Release: Your Winning Olympics Broadcast Team

ABC Local Radio’s broadcast of the 2008 Games from Beijing will continue the Australian Broadcasting Corporation’s proud history as an Olympic broadcaster. That history has continued unbroken since 1936 with ABC radio providing comprehensive, independent coverage of every Games since then.

An experienced and skilled team of 28 broadcasters, journalists and technical staff will bring Australians all the action from Beijing. Broadcasting over 180 hours of coverage of the Olympic Games, ABC Local Radio (excluding 702 ABC Sydney*) will be the place to hear every classic moment, live, through the afternoon and evening from 8 to 24 August 2008.

With dedicated venue commentary positions at many of the Beijing venues, and access to athletes, officials and production facilities, ABC Local Radio will bring listeners live commentary and reports from every major Games event. Highlights will include live coverage of swimming, track and field, cycling, rowing and sprint canoeing as well as team events involving Australian competitors. The commentary team includes:
Gerry Collins with Susie O’Neill - Swimming
David Morrow with Peter Hadfield - Track and Field
Glenn Mitchell - Cycling
Peter Walsh - Basketball
Drew Morphett with Claire Mitchell-Tavener - Hockey
Tim Gavel with Peter Antonie - Rowing and Canoeing
Reporting on a variety of sports will be Tracey Holmes, Gerard Whateley, Charlie King, Quentin Hull and Caroline Davison. Peter Longman is Executive Producer and Scott Whyte is the Technical Producer.

The Games broadcasts on ABC Local Radio’s network can be heard by more than 99% of the Australian population. ABC Local Radio through its Grandstand team is pleased to have secured the non-commercial broadcast rights for audiences to enjoy the best of national and international sporting events including:
2008 Australia/India Test series
2008 NRL & Rugby League World Cup
2008/09 AFL
2009 Ashes Test series
2009 World 20/20
2009 Womens World Cup Cricket
2009/10 Australian Open Tennis
2011 Cricket World Cup


ABC Local Radio coverage will also be supported by a comprehensive website providing information on athletes and events, records and results, Games history and complete details of daily coverage. Go to:

abc.net.au/olympics
* Regretfully, due to the non-commercial radio broadcast rights agreement for these Games, 702 ABC Sydney will carry all the news & results from Beijing, but is not permitted to bring audiences full live commentary.

702 ABC Sydney audiences miss out on Beijing Olympics commentary

Following the conclusion of extended negotiations for non-commercial radio rights for Beijing Olympics broadcast, 702 ABC Sydney audiences will not share in the full commentary of this year’s games with the rest of the ABC Local Radio national network.

While the other 59 metropolitan and regional stations of ABC Local Radio will enjoy full commentary from the experienced Grandstand sports broadcast team in Beijing this August, 702 ABC Sydney will not have the same access following the decision of commercial radio rights holder 2GB to exclude the station in the deal.



Editor, ABC Radio Sport Peter Longman today said “We’re extremely disappointed that despite our efforts to secure access to full Games commentary for 702 ABC Sydney audiences, we were unsuccessful. This breaks the hitherto long held record of broadcasting commentary from every Olympics in the modern era to the whole country.”

Sydney audiences will still have Olympics news, results and reports of all the Games action through the 702 ABC Sydney program teams and the trusted, quality range of news and current affairs programs - AM, The World Today and PM. Further, full reports and results will be available at abc.net.au/olympics. It is the daily live commentary to be broadcast from ABC Local Radio’s highly experienced Grandstand sports team that will not however be available in Sydney.

Longman said “We’re currently finalising technical arrangements for the Olympics and knocking out a metropolitan market such as Sydney from our national network presents major technical and scheduling challenges. We’re pleased however that all Local Radio stations in regional NSW are not affected by the 702 ABC Sydney exclusion and will have full commentary coverage.”

ABC Local Radio through its Grandstand programming maintains a strong commitment to broadcasting a full range of major national and international sporting events. Over the next couple of years audiences across Australia will enjoy comprehensive coverage of:

2008 Australia/India Test series
2008 Rugby League World Cup
2008 NRL & Rubgy Union
2008/09 AFL

2009 Ashes Test series
2009 World 20/20
2009 Womens World Cup Cricket
2009/10 Australian Open Tennis
2011 Cricket World Cup

Sammy Sparrow never flew that low

Just what information is your 9 or 10 year old being feed on the way to school?
Fiona Connolly has presented an interesting and long overdue article in the Daily Telegragh highlighting some of the content being provided on the FM band. Programs talking about subjects probably best suited to the back section of a seedy $5.00 boob and tit magazine. In the article she asks "Where the hell are our radio regulators? What is the Australian Communications and Media Authority listening to? Deborah Cameron?" Read the full story by [link=http://www.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/story/0,22049,23958715-5001031,00.html] here[/link]

Andrew G marries Noa Tishby in Israel

Andrew G, Host of Take 40 and Australian Idol, has married the love of his life Israeli actress Noa Tishby. The couple wed on June 26 in the small coastal town of Caesarea, about 45km out of Tel Aviv,

Nova moves

Plenty of moves at Nova 100! Jody McLeod has moved from from nights to afternoons while Johnny Kats, has left the station to concentrate full-time on his standup comedy career. Moving into nights is former afternoon presenter Hayley Pearson who will be joined by former drive anchor Jarrod Walsh.

Mark opts to become Mr Mum

Mix 106.3 breakfast presenter Mark Parton has quit to take up a new role. Where and what station you may ask? He has resigned to stay home in Canberra with his four children while his wife Vanessa takes up a 15-month Australian Federal Police posting to Solomon Islands as a communications adviser to the local police.
''Vanessa, in the last 10 years, has made a lot of sacrifices because of my job and I think it's probably time that I made a sacrifice for hers,'' he said. [link=http://www.canberratimes.com.au/news/local/news/general/breakfast-radio-presenter-calls-it-quits/800870.aspx] Full story Canberra Times [/link]

Vale John Lindrea

Thursday, July 31, 2008 | 5 comments »

Some sad news with the passing this afternoon of Austereo Melbourne Producer John Lindrea. Johnno who passed away at around 2pm was very much loved by those at Austereo and ARN production and no doubt he will be sadley missed by all. Vale Johnno.

Charlie King going for gold!

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Charlie King, the ABC's first Indigenous broadcaster selected to cover an Olympic Games, is about to take his place among the highly experienced Grandstand commentary team.

"I'm really excited," Charlie said. "It is difficult to get your head around it because this is the biggest sporting event in the world. I've been to AFL grand finals and the test cricket and all those things where there are massive audiences tuned in around the country but then when you think of this - it's the big one."



Charlie King is more than just a sports commentator. He's considered an icon in the Northern Territory where he's been the voice of ABC Grandstand since 1994.

Born in Alice Springs, Charlie describes himself as an Irish-Scottish-Gurindji man who, away from the microphone, is recognised for his work to improve the lives of Indigenous people in the Territory.

"Being an Indigenous person and being given the opportunity to go the Olympic Games is very, very important for me," he said.

"I've had many calls from people around the country and across the NT saying 'Good on you. Do well. We'll be listening'. You feel a little bit of pressure from that but you also feel proud."

His family are so excited that some of them are flying to Darwin just to see him off.

"It's almost like I'm going to compete," Charlie laughed. "I've got to remind them that I'm going there to work. I suppose they think I'll be standing at the airport wearing the Australian tracksuit or something."

Executive Producer Peter Longman said Charlie is a great addition to the games team.

"He's a vastly experienced broadcaster as is Quentin Hull, from Brisbane, who is also off on his first Olympic Games. I think your first games you do get a bit overawed in some ways about just how big they are. It's obviously the pinnacle of a sports broadcaster's career to be chosen to cover an Olympics."

Our proud record as an Olympic Games broadcaster - unbroken since 1936 - continues with ABC Local Radio's presence at the Beijing games.

For the first time, however, the coverage will not be heard across the entire network. This follows the decision of the commercial radio rights holder 2GB to exclude 702 ABC Sydney listeners from receiving full games commentary.

"This breaks our long-held record of broadcasting to all Australians from every Olympic Games in the modern era," Peter said. "We're extremely disappointed that despite our efforts to include Sydney we were unsuccessful."

An experienced and skilled team of 28 broadcasters, journalists and technical staff will bring punters more than 180 hours of coverage over the two weeks of the games, from August 8.

The team will be aiming for broadcast gold.

"Australian listeners won't miss a thing in Beijing and that will make them feel like they're part of the action," Peter said.

Commentator Tracey Holmes will be playing her part covering a range of sports. This is her seventh games and she brings a unique perspective to Grandstand's coverage, drawing on her experience living in China and working as a presenter on China Central Television.

She's expecting an "absolutely sensational" event with total dominance by China.

"Since they've come back into the Olympics they've crept up the medal tally to second last time round in Athens," Tracey said. "There's only one spot further to go and of course they're going to want to achieve that in China. If they don't, there will be major trouble and it will reveal a whole lot of fault lines in all sorts of other areas in China."

Audiences will also be kept up-to-date by radio and TV news and current affairs and online, through the ABC's Olympics website, abc.net.au/olympics

The ABC's online coverage is bigger and better than ever and for the first time we will have a correspondent, Shane McLeod, dedicated to online reporting.

Executive Producer Stuart Watt says the site will feature as much audio and video as is possible within the rights restrictions. "This will include web-only material such as extended interviews, press conferences and interviews, as well as stories about China."

Other features will include audio diaries from members of the Grandstand commentary team and "a massive improvement in the way results are presented".

The time zone has major implications for online traffic, Stuart explained. "The swimming finals this year are scheduled around lunchtime which means the primary methods of keeping in touch with what's happening will be via the website as lots of people will be at work," he said.

B105 announcer back with The Veronicas Lisa Origliasso?

Wednesday, July 30, 2008 | 0 comments »

B105's Ryan Tothill, is rumoured to have recaptured the heart of The Veronicas Lisa Origliasso. The pair split around 18 months ago, with Origliasso later becoming involved with former Australian Idol star Dean Geyer.

Manufacturers and retailers join forces on Digital Radio

Tuesday, July 29, 2008 | 0 comments »

Commercial radio press release: Many of Australia’s leading retailers and manufacturers of digital radio products have joined forces to ensure a united effort in launching digital radio onto the Australian commercial market later this year.

Meeting for the first time with radio industry executives yesterday in Sydney, Australia’s leading retailers and manufacturers have formed the Broadcasters, Retailers and Receiver Manufacturers Digital Radio Advisory Group, which will meet on a monthly basis to discuss strategy for the launch of digital radio


The group includes senior representatives from retailers Harvey Norman, Domayne, Clive Peeters, Dick Smith and manufacturers like Philips, Samsung, Yamaha, Revo, Bush Australia and Pure Australasia. Other leading retailers such as Bing Lee, Target, Myer, David Jones, Strathfield Group and JB Hi Fi have also been invited to join the group as have other manufacturers including Panasonic, TEAC, Sony, Pioneer and JVC.

Broadcasters from the major networks involved in the launch including Austereo, DMG, ARN and Sky Racing also attended to outline the broadcasters’ position.

Chief executive officer of Commercial Radio Australia, Joan Warner said discussions at the inaugural meeting focussed on the marketing and communications plan for digital radio, information on training and education for retailers as well as product availability and price.

“Overseas experience shows us that for digital radio to succeed the radio industry must work closely with retailers and manufacturers to ensure everyone is well prepared for the digital switch-on,” Ms Warner said.

“It is a significant feat bringing retailers and manufacturers together, particularly those with competitive commercial interests, but it is essential that discussions on a uniform approach to timelines and various issues, like training and marketing have begun.“

Ms Warner said the industry wanted to communicate with all stakeholders in the lead-up to the digital switch-on date, but manufacturers and retailers were essential for a successful start.

“This is essentially the launch of a new technology so there is lots to be discussed both now and in coming months – training for retailers is vital and we are well underway in developing training modules and content for retailers’ own training programs. Equally how everyone fits in the overall launch of the technology and ensuring we all work together is crucial,” Ms Warner said.
She said an important issue discussed at the meeting was the tracking of receiver sales to provide critical feedback to all those involved in the launch of digital radio.

Hamish & Andy bound for Beijing

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Today Network 's # 1 drive duo are heading abroad again and this time their destination is China.Hamish & Andy will be broadcasting their radio show live from Beijing for one week, as of Monday 11th August to the Friday 15th August inclusive. The boys are looking forward to experiencing the joys of Beijing and plan to meet as many Aussies as possible that are over there at the same time. But why are Hamish & Andy venturing to China? "A fortune cookie told us to go, but coincidently there's apparently a massive sporting event happening at the same time , " said Andy. Hamish also believed " it seemed a better idea to go to Bejiing than doing the show from Chinatown and hoping no one noticed."

Clear Channel unveils online radio network

Monday, July 28, 2008 | 0 comments »

Clear Channel Communications Inc. said Monday it will launch an online radio network that offers over 900 stations, including independent online stations. [link=http://news.smh.com.au/technology/clear-channel-unveils-online-radio-network-20080729-3meu.html]MORE[/link]

Peas in a pod, um, cast!

Sunday, July 27, 2008 | 0 comments »

Wendy Harmer reigned supreme on FM breakfast radio for more than a decade. Angela Catterns was the darling of the ABC who once managed to topple Alan Jones in the ratings.
The two former queens of radio have formed an unlikely alliance to present their own podcast show for the ABC's local radio network. It's boutique broadcasting - a weekly radio show posted on the internet for listeners to tune into by computer or to download on their portable music players. FULL STORY SMH

Sonia & Todd's 150th Show

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Sonia Kruger and Todd McKenney will be airing their 150th radio show this morning on Mix 106.5.




Highlights on today's show include a studio visit by Sonia's sister Deb Kruger...and Todd's reaction to the first Mix 106.5 staff meeting he attended! And interviews with Lauren Jackson and City Homicide star Peter O'Brien. [link=http://www.mixmornings.com.au]Check out more here[/link]

Kevin John to stay on Magic breakfast

Saturday, July 26, 2008 | 1 comments »

Kevin John will stay on Magic 1278 breakfast with Ann Gilding. Kevin has been filling in since the sudden retirement of Andrew McLaren on the 30th of June. Audio here

3MP and 1116 SEN cash flow positive

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Pacific Star, which operates radio stations 1116SEN and 3MP, was cash flow positive in the June year — the first time in its history. [link=http://business.theage.com.au/business/cash-flows-on-radio-waves-20080726-3ldk.html]Full story The Age [/link]

Mandi Wicks quits Nova 969 and Vega 95.3

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DMG's Mandi Wicks has quit her long running general manager role of Nova 969 and Vega 95.3. She will leave the stations on October 30 opting to spend more time with her young family. DMG’s managing director, Cathy O’Connor has started the process of finding a replacement for Mandi.

Ken "KG" Cunningham announces his retirement from FIVEaa drive

Thursday, July 24, 2008 | 0 comments »

After 17 years Ken "KG" Cunningham will depart the FIVEaa Sports show from the end of this year.
FIVEaa general manager Paul Bartlett said his station wanted KG to leave the weekday drive show at his peak. He will continue with FIVEaa's top-rating Saturday Sports Show and with its AFL coverage next year.


KG has had a record run in hosting drive radio in Adelaide and prior to joining FIVEaa he spent 15 years at 5DN in a similar role.

Helmes segments now available on Fairfax Digital Courier

Wednesday, July 23, 2008 | 0 comments »

Helmes Media Solutions has taken another giant leap forward with the announcement their segments will now be available to stations on the Fairfax Digital Courier service.

General Manager of Helmes Media Solutions Joel Helmes says the Fairfax Digital Courier will give his organization even more presence in the radio industry.

“We just felt that while traditional delivery methods were reliable we want to make sure that accessing and using our segments is as easy and convenient as possible for the stations”.



“What great exposure it is for us as well, our segments are now available for download in every radio station in Australia”.

Helmes Media Solutions continues to experience rapid growth according to Mr. Helmes.

“Just in the last few days we have started supplying our segments to stations such as bay FM 99.3 Port Stephens, 2BH Broken Hill and 4GY Gympie”.

“Our new segment “New Horizons” is also proving a hit”.

Helmes Media Solutions segments will be available on Fairfax Digital Courier from next week.

Swimmer Nick D'Arcy joins Hot 91

Tuesday, July 22, 2008 | 0 comments »

Dumped Olympic hopeful Nick D'Arcy is about join the breakfast team at Sunshine Coast radio station Hot 91. From next Monday, 28 July, D'Arcy will join Ronnie Stanton, Todd Widdicombe and Sami Muirhead, in a bid to bring an insight into the August Games.

Finalists announced for 2008 Radio Awards

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The battle for Best On-Air Team will be fiercely contested this year between The Hamish and Andy Show (Fox FM 101.9), The Kyle and Jackie O Show (2Day FM), Merrick and Rosso and Kate Ritchie (Nova 969) and Michelle and Smallzy in Brisbane (Nova 106.9) – all announced as finalists today for the 2008 Australian Commercial Radio Awards (ACRAs). 2DayFM’s Kyle Sandilands and Jackie O have won this award for the past two years and Nova’s Merrick and Rosso are also past winners. [link=http://www.radiorumours.com/2008list.pdf]List of finalists here[/link]

The well-known on-air teams will join many of Australia’s radio personalities and talking heads from across metropolitan, regional and country stations as finalists in the 20th annual ACRAs, with the winners to be announced at a gala ceremony at Conrad Jupiters on the Gold Coast on October 11.


Another hotly contested category this year is Best Talk Presenter. Finalists include the winner for the past two years, Neil Mitchell (3AW) as well as Derryn Hinch (3AW), Ray Hadley (2GB) and Leon Byner (5AA, Adelaide). The Best Current Affairs Commentator category will be decided between last year’s winner, Neil Mitchell (3AW) along with Derryn Hinch (3AW), Ray Hadley (2GB), Steve Price (2UE) and Leon Byner (5AA, Adelaide).

Last year’s winner for Best Music Personality, Jabba (Nova 969) joins other finalists Dave Williams (Triple M, Melbourne), Mike Fitzpatrick (Triple M, Melbourne), Rod Maldon (The Irod) (Fox FM 101.9), Emily Jade O’Keefe (Nova 106.9) and Jamie Row (Nova 969), to battle it out for the winner of this coveted category.

The winner of Best Sports Presenter last year, Clinton Grybas (3AW Sports) has been posthumously entered into the same category this year and is a finalist along with Ray Hadley (2GB Sports), Brian Taylor (Triple M Sports) and Ken Cunningham (5AA Sports).

Finalists in the Best Newcomer On-Air category include Wil Anderson (Triple M Network), Charlie Pickering (Triple M, Melbourne), Cal Wilson (Nova 100) and Ian ‘Dicko” Dickson (Vega 91.5, Melbourne).

There are eight finalist in the prestigious Best News Presenter (metropolitan) category including for AM, Denis O’Kane (3AW), Gail Watson (4BC), Chris Rieger (4KQ) and Steve Blanda (2UE). For FM, finalists include last year’s winner, Kristy Warner (Nova 969), Glenn Daniel (WS FM), Geoff Field (2Day FM) and Monique Dews (Vega 95.3).

This year’s ACRAs will be hosted by Australian Idol co-host, Andrew G, who also hosts Australia’s biggest weekly radio countdown, “Take 40 Australia”.

Organised by Commercial Radio Australia, on behalf of the radio industry, the national Awards include 32 categories, which cover all areas of radio broadcasting including news, talk, sport, music and entertainment. The ACRAs differ from television’s Logie Awards, in that they are peer judged with judging panels comprised of industry members. Winners are announced in each category across three areas: metropolitan, provincial and country commercial radio stations. This year there is one new category – Best Multimedia Execution, which has been introduced to recognise innovative multimedia campaigns which involve listeners, using a website and podcasts, mobile phones or other multimedia applications.

More investigations?

Monday, July 21, 2008 | 0 comments »

2WKT, AKA HighlandFM is allegedly under investigation by the ACMA for 2 more counts of violations . It is further alleged there are further investigations happening into the station by the ACMA and the Office of Fair Trading.

If the allegations are found to be correct the station runs the risk of losing its license. In other similar situations the ACMA and OOFT have allowed stations to continue to operate under the proviso the membership removes the offending parties.

It is arguable that they view the membership as culpable if they allow such alleged activities to continue.

Expiry of temporary community radio licence in Cobar, NSW

Sunday, July 20, 2008 | 0 comments »

Media release: The Australian Communications and Media Authority has become aware of media reports that it has decided not to renew the temporary community broadcasting licence of Cobar Community Radio Inc (CCR), because it ‘does not meet the minimum requirements for local programming’. This is not correct.

CCR, which uses the on-air identifier 2HOT FM, holds a temporary community broadcasting licence to provide a service to Cobar, New South Wales, for the period 22 January 2008 to 21 July 2008.


On 4 June 2008, ACMA called for applications in the Cobar Age for temporary use of the 102.9 MHz frequency in the Cobar RA2 licence area from 22 July 2008 onwards. ACMA then wrote to CCR on 10 June 2008 to invite the licensee to submit an application for a further temporary community broadcasting licence.

CCR informed ACMA in a telephone call on 14 July 2008 that it did not intend to apply for a further temporary community broadcasting licence.

As CCR has declined to apply for another temporary community broadcasting licence and no other applications have been received, use of the frequency will lapse after the 2HOT temporary community broadcasting licence expires on 21 July 2008.

2HOT has been operating on a temporary community broadcasting licence to serve the general geographic area of Cobar after ACMA decided not to renew CCR’s long-term licence on 20 December 2007, which expired on 21 January 2008.

In deciding not to renew 2HOT’s long-term licence, ACMA found that the licensee had not adequately identified the needs of the community and that its service did not adequately meet the needs of the Cobar licence area.

The licensee’s management capacity and ability to comply with licence conditions also concerned ACMA. Encouraging members of the community to participate in the operation of the service and providing sound corporate governance are essential requirements for community broadcasters. The licensee’s inability to meet legislative requirements contributed to ACMA deciding to not renew the long term licence.

Media contact: Donald Robertson, ACMA Media Manager, on (02) 9334 7980.


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Backgrounder
Cobar Community Radio Inc. (2HOT)
On 20 December 2007, ACMA decided not to renew the long-term community radio broadcasting licence held by Cobar Community Radio Inc. (2HOT), which expired on 21 January 2008.

ACMA found that the licensee had not adequately identified the needs of the community and that the service did not adequately meet the needs of the Cobar licence area. ACMA’s media release announcing the non-renewal of the 2HOT long-term community broadcasting licence is available.

Consequently, ACMA made available the 102.9 MHz frequency for temporary community broadcasting purposes. It issued a six-month temporary community broadcasting licence to CCR with effect from 22 January 2008.

CCR has declined to apply for another temporary community broadcasting licence.

Community broadcasting licences
As at 30 June 2008, there were:

353 long-term community radio broadcasting licences, of which 78 were remote Indigenous broadcasting services (RIBS)
52 temporary community broadcasting licences
18 community radio licences renewed with remedial actions, 1 where additional conditions were imposed and 17 with agreed measures
11 licences not renewed, of which 6 were RIBS services that had not provided licence renewal applications and whose licences had therefore lapsed.
Renewal process for long-term community broadcasting licences
ACMA reminds licensees to lodge their long-term community radio licence renewal form one year before their licence is due to expire.

When a renewal application is received, ACMA conducts an assessment and investigation of the licence. This may take up to 12 months. The Broadcasting Services Act 1992 (the Act) was amended in 2002 so that, in deciding whether to renew a licence, ACMA can take into account the same matters that it took into account when allocating the licence.

During the period of assessment and investigation, a licensee may be asked to provide an explanation of its answers. If insufficient information has been provided, ACMA may also ask the licensee for additional material. The assessment and investigation includes a review of the licensee’s record of compliance with the Act, licence conditions and codes of practice.

Community broadcasting services
Community broadcasting services are relevantly defined as being broadcasting services that:

are provided for community purposes; and
are not operated for profit or as part of a profit-making enterprise; and
provide programs that are able to be received by commonly available equipment and are made available free to the general public.
Community radio broadcasting services are intended to serve the needs and interests of particular communities. Licensees are required to encourage members of the community they have been licensed to serve to participate in the operation and the programming of the service.

What is a temporary community broadcasting licence?
A temporary community broadcasting licence (TCBL) authorises aspirant community radio broadcasters to provide temporary broadcasting services. TCBLs may be allocated for a period of up to 12 months. A TCBL cannot be renewed. However, a licensee providing a service under a TCBL may apply for a new TCBL before its existing TCBL expires.

TCBLs help to foster the development of community broadcasting by giving groups interested in applying for a long-term community radio licence the opportunity to develop the range of operational, programming and other skills necessary to successfully operate a community broadcasting service.

TCBLs help groups build community support for their service by allowing them to identify the needs of the community they propose to serve, and providing programming that caters to those needs, and encouraging the participation of the community in the service.

Who may apply for a TCBL?
An applicant for a TCBL must be a company that:

is formed in Australia or an external Territory; and
represents a community interest.
A 'company' includes an incorporated association.

An applicant for a TCBL must be a not-for-profit, locally based, representative organisation. It should have clearly defined purposes and transparent, non-discriminatory membership rules.

Allocation of TCBLs
In deciding whether to allocate a TCBL, ACMA is not to have regard to matters it considers when allocating a long-term community broadcasting licence. These include:

the extent that the proposed service would meet the needs of the community in an area;
the nature and diversity of the interests of that community;
the nature and diversity of other broadcasting services in that area; and
the capacity of the applicant to provide the service.
ACMA may have regard to:

the undesirability of one person being in a position to exercise control of more than one community broadcasting licence that is a broadcasting services bands licence in the same licence area; and
the undesirability of the Commonwealth, a State or a Territory or a political party being in a position to exercise control of a TCBL.

ACMA may decide not to allocate a TCBL if the applicant previously held a TCBL but did not provide a broadcasting service under that TCBL.

ACMA must not allocate a TCBL if it has decided that the applicant is an ‘unsuitable’ applicant in the terms set out in the Act.

Licence periods
ACMA will allocate TCBLs for periods of up to 12 months.

ACMA may receive valid applications for TCBLs to broadcast programs on spectrum that is already occupied by one or more temporary broadcasters. In this situation, ACMA will align the licence periods for all services by determining the licence period for new temporary broadcasting services to start on the day after the end of the licence period for existing broadcasting services using the same spectrum.

Timing conditions
Timing conditions specify the times in which the licence allows a temporary community broadcasting service to be provided.

In determining the timing conditions and the licence period of a TCBL, ACMA is to have regard to:

any other applications for TCBLs in the licence area of the proposed licence; and
any other TCBLs in the licence area of the proposed licence; and
such other matters as ACMA thinks fit.
Sharing spectrum
When there is only one applicant for a TCBL, ACMA will determine timing conditions to allow full-time broadcasting (that is, 24 hours, seven days a week).

When more than one TCBL is allocated to broadcast on the same spectrum in an area, timing conditions will determine when each licensee may broadcast its service. When licensees must share spectrum, ACMA will set timing conditions in accordance with times agreed to by the applicants. If the applicants cannot agree on how time is to be shared, ACMA will make the decision. ACMA has prepared guidelines for the sharing of spectrum in these circumstances. The guidelines are available on ACMA’s website.

Hold a massive party and hope for a radio gig!

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Perth man Tim van den Akker, 21, wants to attract a record number of people to his party that has been advertised on his Facebook page. The end result he hopes will be a job as a radio announcer (what ever happened to radio school and five years in the bush?) and the party organising might help his chances of success in the media.
So far more than 13,000 people had been invited via Facebook, with the overwhelming success of the venture sparking a new national party planning business idea soon to be launched.
[link=http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=26367161351]Check out his Facebook page here[/link]

3TR FM and GOLD 1242 knock 30 cents a litre off petrol

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Ace radio's Gippsland stations 3TR FM and GOLD 1242 ran a very popular promotion last Thursday. In conjunction with Mobil GPG Traralgon they slashed the price of a litre of petrol by 30 cents for an hour which helped 174 struggling motorists fill their tanks. A total of 5068 litres of petrol sold during the hour. [link=http://latrobevalley.yourguide.com.au/news/local/news/news-features/its-cheap-but-not-easy/1100246.aspx]RELATED ITEM HERE[/link]

Hot Tomato drive to breakfast - breakfast to drive!

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Hot Tomato drive team Paul Holmes and Sean Flanagan have been moved to the breakfast shift at the Gold Coast station. Survivng breakfast presenter Luke Bradnam will move to drive.

Station of the week: K ROCK Geelong

Saturday, July 19, 2008 | 1 comments »

Our random station of the week is K ROCK Geelong . Check out their website by clicking on the banner below and [link=http://www.krock.com.au/index.html]listen live on line[/link]




Big Brother heading to DMG Adelaide

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Current Big Brother voice Aaron Lucas is joining the newsroom of DMG's Fiveaa and Nova Adelaide. Lucas is no stranger to radio and will be on board in Adelaide inside the next four weeks.

Borne lacks home identity

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Former Hobart musician Cameron Tapp loves Tasmania -- but his home state's commercial radio stations don't seem to show him much love in return.
Tapp fronts Borne, a Melbourne alt-rock group who made it big overseas last year when their song The Guide was chosen as single of the week on several of Apple's i-Tunes online music stores. [link=http://www.news.com.au/mercury/story/0,22884,24048124-3462,00.html]Full story here[/link]

ABC journalist arrested on drug charges

Thursday, July 17, 2008 | 0 comments »

The ABC's South Asia correspondent Peter Lloyd is facing drugs charges after being arrested in Singapore. The 41-year-old was arrested earlier this week. He faces up to 20 years jail and 15 strokes of the cane if found guilty of drug charges. Lloyd joined the ABC in 1988, working in the Sydney television newsroom for three years before moving to Britain to work for the BBC and British Sky News. In 2000, he returned to ABC television news and later worked for national radio current affairs programs AM, The World Today and PM. [link=http://livenews.com.au/Articles/2008/07/18/EXCLUSIVE_ABC_journalist_Peter_Lloyd_arrested_on_drug_charges_in_Singapore]LIVENEWS REPORT[/link]

Mike Byrne heading to River 949

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Mike Byrne has been appointed Program Director of River 94.9 Ipswich, effective the 28th of July 2008. He brings a wealth of programming experience in both capital city and regional sectors having previously held similar positions with Mix 1065 in Sydney, B105 in Brisbane and Gold 1043 in Melbourne. Mike quit his role with Mix 1065 in April and has more recently been heard on Vega 95.3 in a weekend/floating capacity.
River 949, which was previously part of Fairfax Media, has been with out a PD for over 3 years and this is the first major staff appointment by new owners Grant Broadcasters.

Silence on airwaves as Stretto switches off

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Popular long-serving radio personality David Stretton will have his last day on air today and wants listeners to know he didn't jump - he was pushed.
"Stretto", as he is known by colleagues and fans, will sign off from i98FM at midday after nine years at the station.
A spokeswoman from WIN Radio told the Mercury on Tuesday Stretton "had just decided to move on" but Stretton and the station confirmed yesterday this was not true. [link=http://illawarra.yourguide.com.au/news/local/news/general/silence-on-airwaves-as-stretto-switches-off-mike/844378.aspx]FULL STORY HERE[/link]

ACMA to develop new representation guidelines for community broadcasters

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The Australian Communications and Media Authority today announced its latest community broadcasting initiative to develop new guidelines for community broadcasters to better help them comply with their licence conditions.

This initiative closely follows ACMA’s release of the Community Broadcasting Sponsorship Guidelines 2008 in June. The favourable response to the sponsorship guidelines suggests that guidelines are an appropriate way in this section of the broadcasting industry of clarifying the necessary level of performance to meet compliance with licence obligations.



‘ACMA has extensively reviewed community broadcasting investigations for the past five years and several related issues, indeed a trend, emerged as a principal concern for complainants’, said Chris Chapman, ACMA Chairman. ‘The areas of concern included community participation, governance issues and licensees failing to meet the needs of their community.’

‘Additional guidelines should also enable ACMA to further implement recommendations of the House of Representatives Standing Committee report of June 2007, Tuning in to community broadcasting, particularly those relating to governance arrangements,’ Mr Chapman said.

The House of Representatives report included recommendations that the Australian Government, in conjunction with the sector’s peak bodies, develop a guiding template for the structure of boards and committees and that ACMA improve transparency in relation to decision-making about community broadcasting services.

Following further analysis of available data, ACMA will consult with relevant industry groups on the development of the draft guidelines and make them available for industry comment later this year.

Green Guide 17 July 2008

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Given her success, it's surprising to discover Ali Moore has suffered many career setbacks.
"I wanted to be an air hostess when I was younger," says the ABC Lateline Business host who, starting Monday, will cover Jon Faine's 774 ABC morning shift for the rest of the year. Read the entire article [link=http://www.theage.com.au/news/tv--radio/moore-warms-faines-throne/2008/07/16/1216162936726.html]here[/link]

Dylan Lewis wins $20,000 for the Choir Of Hard Knocks

Wednesday, July 16, 2008 | 0 comments »

Nova 100's Dylan Lewis has won $20,000 for the Choir Of Hard Knocks on the second episode of Channel 9's Celebrity Singing Bee.

Sonia and Todd mix it with the pilgrims

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With the World Youth Day moving into full swing in Sydney today Mix FM's Sonia and Todd took to the streets to get amongst the pilgrims. Although they were a little early to see the Pope they did manage to catch up with a number of interesting characters.

Is Dunn done?

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Could this be Jamie Dunn’s last year on Coast airwaves? Rumours have emerged the Zinc 96 front man will finish up at the station in November. [link=http://www.thedaily.com.au/news/2008/jul/17/dunn-done/]Full story here[/link]

Phil O’Neil is back at Triple M

Tuesday, July 15, 2008 | 0 comments »

Phil O’Neil is back at Triple M and is set to take over the 6.00 to 10.00 pm slot from next Tuesday. O’Neil will present a music based program Tueday to Fridays. Related item [link=http://www.news.com.au/entertainment/story/0,26278,24026838-5013560,00.html]here[/link]

Viewsonic wins Round 1 of 2009 Siren Awards

Sunday, July 13, 2008 | 0 comments »

An ad for Viewsonic, which rose to the challenge of a brief to “create a radio ad demonstrating superior picture quality” has won the overall and single categories for round one of the 2009 Siren Awards.

Written by Thomas Duncan-Watt from agency Gorilla Communications, Sydney, the ad called “Amazon” describes the picture quality of Viewsonic’s LCD monitors.



Judge and previous round winner, Josh Bryer from agency Mark in Sydney said the ad was a clear winner: “A great and simple idea, beautifully crafted, with excellent sound engineering. And a brilliant answer to a very tough brief.”

Mr Duncan-Watt said the challenge of the brief was also his inspiration: “I feel like it is the kind of radio ad that you can listen to several times and always hear something new. The level of detail and effort that went into the production is really evident in that way. Then again, for a machine that can produce more colours than a television screen, what better medium than radio?”

There were two highly commended entries in the single category. They were both written by Ryan Albuino and Andrew Chu from agency Marketforce in Perth for Lotterywest and were called “More Words – Weatherman” and “More Words – Pilot.”

These two ads were also part of a campaign of three ads that won the campaign category in this round for Lotterywest. The campaign was called “More Words.”
Judge and previous round winner, Josh Bryer from agency Mark in Sydney said about the campaign winner: “More Words is a clever and engaging idea, bought to life in three significantly different ways – all with good audio craftsmanship behind them.”

Highly commended in the campaign category was an ad called “Find Your Animal” for Perth Zoo, written by Kurt Beaudoin and Josh Edge, from agency, The Brand Agency in Perth.

Winner of the craft category was “Flying Knee” for the Epworth Foundation with sound engineer, James Ashton from production studio, Risk Sound in Melbourne.

The national Siren Awards are run by Commercial Radio Australia and are designed to recognise the best radio advertising in the country. The awards promote the importance of creativity as a way to make radio advertising more effective. Entries for round 2 for 2009 are now open and close on August 1. For more information and to listen visit the dedicated website [link=www.sirenawards.com.au.]www.sirenawards.com.au.[/link]

Station of the week: REBEL FM The Rock Station

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Our random station of the week is REBEL FM. Check out their website by clicking on the banner below and [link=http://www.rebelfm.com.au/listen.html]listen live on line[/link]
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News Limited carsguide.com.au gets “Behind the Wheel”

Saturday, July 12, 2008 | 0 comments »

Automotive website carsguide.com.au has become the new national sponsor of Behind the Wheel, a motoring segment broadcast on more than 40 radio stations across Australia every day.

Produced by Helmes Media Solutions, Behind the Wheel focuses on issues that affect motorists, such as record high petrol prices, road safety and car maintenance tips.

Behind the Wheel host Joel Helmes says the partnership with carsguide.com.au will further the impact of the segment.

“It’s a perfect fit” Helmes says.

“When we started Behind the Wheel last year we knew it would be a great vehicle for websites such as carsguide.com.au to reach a wider audience.

“People who love cars already visit carsguide.com.au and read the carsguide inserts in News Limited’s newspapers, but with Behind the Wheel we are actually getting the message in most cases directly to people in their cars.

“It also shows that Australia’s favourite motoring segment is here for the long run.”

carsguide.com.au editor Karla Pincott will now join Joel twice a week on Behind the Wheel to look at the latest auto news.

Joel Helmes says Pincott will add a new dimension to the segments content, “Karla adds a different dynamic with her passion for delivering stories and information that really relate to listeners.

“We are delighted to have Karla join our other expert regulars including road safety guru Russell White and the NRMA’s Jack Haley”.

Pincott welcomed carsguide.com.au’s association with Behind the Wheel.

“We have a particular focus to connect carsguide.com.au with regional Australia and Behind the Wheel is an excellent channel to help make that connection.
“I look forward to working with Joel and the Behind the Wheel team to reach drivers all around Australia with a wide range of automotive issues.”

Behind the Wheel can be heard weekdays on –

2GZ Orange 105.1fm, 2WG Wagga 1152am, 2CS Coffs Harbour 106.3fm, 2LF Young 1350am, 2LT Lithgow 900am, The River Albury 105.7fm, 4KZ 531am Innisfail, 4KZ 693am Tully, 4KZ 1620am Ingham, 4KZ 1611am Karumba, 4KZ 102.5fm Babinda, 4KZ 94.7fm Cardwell, 4KZ 88.5fm Dunk Island, 4AM Mareeba 558am and 1422am, Kool FM 98.3fm Innisfail, Kik FM 88.7fm Atherton and Mareeba, Easy mix 1026am Mackay, Crow FM 90.7fm Kingaroy, Easy Mix 1467am Mildura, 3BO Bendigo 95.3fm, 3GG Gippsland 531am, Flow FM 106.3fm Yarra Valley, Flow FM 89.3fm Marysville, 5SE Mt.Gambier, Coast FM 88.7fm Adelaide, Flow FM 99.5fm Barossa, Light & Mid North, Flow FM 98.9fm Southern Yorke Peninsula, Flow FM 90.9fm Northern Yorke Peninsula, Flow FM 97.7fm Murray Mallee, Flow FM 106.1fm West Coast Ceduna, Flow FM 99.3fm West Coast Streaky Bay, Flow FM 100.3fm Limestone Coast, Flow FM 96.5fm Border Mallee, Flow FM 95.5fm Kangaroo Island, Flow FM 107.3fm Southern Ports, Flow FM 101.7fm Woomera, Flow FM 99.7fm Coober Pedy, Flow FM 97.9fm Roxby Downs, Radio Goolarri 99.7fm Broome, Flow FM 100.5fm Tennant Creek and 1 WAY FM 91.9fm and 94.3fm Canberra.

Deniese Anderson joins Star FM Mildura

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Ex 2GF Grafton news reader Deniese Anderson has joined the newsroom at Star FM /3MA FM Mildura.

Paul Dix celebrating 50 glorious years

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2QN's Paul Dix will celebrate 50 years of radio later this week with a special dinner in Deniliquin. Paul has hosted breakfast for 46 years at 2QN and prior to that he was with 3MA in Mildura for 4 years. Congratulations Paul.

Jackie O kiss of death yet again

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A Channel 10 insider has announced this will be the final series of Big Brother when the program concludes in just over a week.
Last November on our daily email digest of radionews we suggested the inclusion of 2DAY's Jackie O and Kyle Sandilands would be the final nail in the coffin of the already struggling Big Brother program.
Jackies track record of failed TV programs speaks for itself and include The Nation and Surprise, Surprise Gotcha, Under Cover Angels, Australian Princess, Popstars, Ground Zero, and Access All Areas for Foxtel.

Successful tenders announced for Digital Radio build

Thursday, July 10, 2008 | 0 comments »

Successful tenders for the development of Digital Radio infrastructure in Australia have been announced today.

Chief executive officer of Commercial Radio Australia, Joan Warner, said the announcement represents a significant development in Australia’s migration to a Digital Radio platform.

“We are now literally building towards a new era, one that will deliver a multi-media experience to radio listeners, broadcasters and advertisers alike.



“The successful tenders have come through a competitive bidding process and will be working to our timelines to deliver the equipment that will make Digital Radio an exciting new media proposition,” Ms Warner said.

The successful tenders announced so far include:

Rohde & Schwarz (high power DAB+ transmitters)
Factum (DAB+ Multiplexers & coders)
The United Group (systems integration services & pre-build)
Kordia (project management support)

These organisations will be helping to develop the infrastructure for DAB+ radio, a standard that is also being adopted by other countries.

Free-to-air digital radio services will begin in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth from early 2009.

The Rock Of Ages EON FM

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Today, twenty eight years ago 92.3 EON FM went to air for the first time from their Bank Street South Melbourne studio. .The following is what went to air to open the station "It's one past midnight and this is 92.3, E-O-N FM, I'm Peter Grace and this is the beginning of a long, long time..." The first track played being the Eagles [i]A new kid in town[/i].

Alas the long, long time was only eight years, although for some in radio that is an eternity, in 1988 EON FM became 3MMM.

Triple M today celebrated the birth of EON and paid tribute to a radio station that played a big part of life in Melbourne during the 1980's. Lee Simon, 'Captain' Karl Van Est and Peter Grace were on air from midday.


The station have put together a tribute page packed with features and well worth the visit [link=http://www.triplem.com.au/melbourne/shows/EON/index.html]here[/link]

Green Guide 10 July 2008

Wednesday, July 9, 2008 | 0 comments »

GEORGE McEncroe knows why Mix FM's Two Women & A Metro is shedding listeners. "It's Brigitte Duclos' fault," she says. "Tom Gleeson and I have been carrying her. Clearly she's the problem." Seriously, though, all the new breakfast shows are struggling to lure audiences from established programs, but Mix has suffered the biggest slump in the 5.30am to 9am slot, dropping from a 5.1% share to 3.7% in a few months.

Rival stations say the show isn't terrible, just bland. Which is strange, given that its hosts are not. Duclos was a star on Fox and Triple M, Gleeson is an accomplished comedian and McEncroe was a hit on Brisbane breakfast radio and as a regular Get This guest. READ THE ENTIRE ITEM [link=http://www.theage.com.au/news/tv--radio/good-folks-in-the-mix/2008/07/09/1215282907061.html]HERE[/link]

Catholic critic to spearhead SBS radio coverage

Tuesday, July 8, 2008 | 0 comments »

A former priest and controversial commentator on the Catholic Church will spearhead SBS' live radio broadcasts of World Youth Day next week.

Paul Collins is former long-time presenter and anchor of the ABC’s religious affairs programme “The Religion Report”. Full report SBS[link=http://news.sbs.com.au/worldnewsaustralia/catholic_critic_to_spearhead_sbs_radio_coverage_551371 here[/link]

Metro Radio Advertising Continues to Grow

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Commercial radio : Advertising revenue at metropolitan commercial radio stations has grown by a further 5.76 percent to $654.5 million during the 12 months to the end of June 2008, according to figures released today by Commercial Radio Australia.

The figures, sourced by Price Waterhouse Coopers, show Perth led the way with growth of 17.80 percent year-to-date (YTD) end of June 2008. Brisbane is up 10.90 percent YTD, Melbourne is up 6.65 percent YTD and Adelaide is up 6.51 percent YTD, while the Sydney market remained relatively stable with a slight decrease of just 1.17 percent YTD.



The Sydney commercial radio station market accounted for $218.7 million of advertising revenue during the financial year, Melbourne recorded revenue of $186 million, Brisbane $104.5 million, Perth $83 million and Adelaide $62 million.

Joan Warner, chief executive officer of Commercial Radio Australia, said the latest figures show that radio remains a powerful advertising proposition, with even greater opportunities ahead.

“Commercial radio ad revenue has now increased every year for the past six years,” Ms Warner said.
Ms Warner added that the link between radio and online presented a significant opportunity for commercial radio stations and many had invested significantly in developing their online presence in recent times.
“Radio and the internet are both instant, conversational media that appeal to the connected generation, so there are clear benefits in using radio and online advertising in combination. The launch of digital radio in 2009 will also give radio a new lease of life,” Ms Warner said.

Are Merrick and Rosso quitting?

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The rumours on Merrick and Rosso (and Kate) have been doing the rounds this week and today the Courier Mail reports
After seven successful years riding the FM radio airwaves, Nova 969 duo Merrick Watts and Tim Ross are believed to be hanging up their headphones at the end of 2008.

While rumours of creative friction with their newest recruit Kate Ritchie are said to be unfounded, the funny fellas are aiming to expand their showbiz careers beyond the dial and are planning to sign off from the Nova network in November.

Nova's general manager Mandi Wicks moved to shut down the situation yesterday, saying management "couldn't be happier" with the team, but a station insider has revealed the breakfast boys are "well and truly over" the gig. Full story Courier Mail [link=http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/story/0,23739,23991360-5012980,00.html]here[/link]

Anderson with Austereo until 2010

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Michael Anderson,Austereo CEO, has had his renewed his contract with Austereo renewed until 2010.

Big Brother's Dixie Charity Auction for beyondblue

Monday, July 7, 2008 | 0 comments »

HypeFM's Dixie will auction her Big Brother running shoes on Australian online auction site OZtion to raise awareness for beyondblue, the national independent not-for-profit organisation that seeks to address issues associated with depression, anxiety and related substance misuse disorders in Australia. She will be auctioning the jogging shoes that Big Brother gave her, with all proceeds going to beyondblue.

Dixie is a mental health worker and is studying sports psychology. She said she was passionate about supporting beyondblue, an initiative supported by the federal and state governments.

Dixie Crawford, from Dubbo, was the outgoing country girl that had one of the strongest personalities in the Big Brother house this year. Big Brother gave Dixie the pair of joggers because she kept asking for a pair so she could keep fit in the house. ''I am passionate in my support of mental health issues and I hope this auction raises awareness of the services and support that beyondblue provides to people from all walks of life who suffer from some form of depression or anxiety,'' Dixie said. ''It would be great to raise a bit of money, but also bring attention to beyondblue and maybe let some young people know they are not alone out there and there are support services that do exist for them.'' Spending 35 days inside the Big Brother house,

Dixie was eventually evicted earlier this month after actually nominating herself for eviction. Since leaving the house Dixie has returned to home town Broken Hill to host the breakfast show on local radio station Hype FM.

The show called “Dixie’s Big Breakfast” will consist of celebrity chat and gossip, interviews with Big Brother evictee’s and inside information on the housemates. The joggers will be put up for auction on OZtion (www.oztion.com.au) on the 7th of July for a duration of two weeks. Click [link=http://www.oztion.com.au/auction/4792119.aspx ]here[/link] to view the auction: For all those Big Brother fans out there, here is a chance to own a piece of Big Brother memorabilia and help depression in Australia.

About OZtion
OZtion is an Australian online auction site, based on unique Australian designed and developed technology. Located in Melbourne, OZtion has grown enormously to become the 2nd largest Australian online auction site. Visit [link=www.oztion.com.au ]www.oztion.com.au [/link]for more

Media Watch Kyle and Jackie - Oh

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ABC's Media Watch have featured TodayFM's Kyle Sandilands and Jackie O highlighting the suitability and content of their breakfast program. Read the entire Media Watch item [link=http://www.abc.net.au/mediawatch/transcripts/s2296866.htm]here[/link]

Digging deep for kids

Sunday, July 6, 2008 | 2 comments »

The Give Me Five for Kids appeal has raised more than $268,429 to help improve the quality of care and equipment in the children’s wards of Coast hospitals.

The Mix FM radio station appeal, which was supported by the Sunshine Coast Daily, involved a range of community events including lawn bowls days and corporate golf days.

One of the highlights was a “wheelie bin walk” which consisted of three teams that walked from one end of the Sunshine Coast to the other, finishing at the Nambour Hospital. Full story [link=http://www.thedaily.com.au/news/2008/jul/07/digging-deep-kids/]here[/link]

Grab a bite of the wheel!

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Helmes Media have produced 90 one off 45 second bite size segments of their popular Behind The Wheel program. These segments are 45 seconds in duration and have room on the tail for local station or sponsor IDs. Behind the Wheel – Bite Size could be a great value for a new client so if you have been thinking about including it into your stations schedule there has never been a better time! Best of all they are completely FREE to Behind the Wheel stations and you can play them whenever you want.

Check out a demo on-line at [link=www.helmes.com.au/page/radio_segments.html]here[/link]

OB Van available now on EBAY

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Check out this fully fitted ready to go Outside Broadcast van, The perfect promotional tool for your station and it is available now on EBAY [link=http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=140247066264&ssPageName=STRK:MESE:IT&ih=004]here[/link] or for more details contact Steve 02 9686-2065. He will be happy to answer any further questions or provide an inspection.

Station of the week: 5SE 963 Mt Gambier

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5SE 963 AM Mt Gambier is our random station of the week. Click on the banner and check out their website.

Vega's Chrissie is a Rockstar!

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For the last 8 weeks Vega 91.5 breakfast co-host Chrissie Swan has been completing a Rockstar Experience course. She has learnt what it takes to become a ROCKSTAR, from singing in a band to hair and makeup, the works! Chrissie took to the stage last night and gave it her all! Despite forgetting the lyrics and Dicko and Dave trying to outshine her, Chrissie was a wonderful rockstar! Listen [link=http://audio.dmgradio.com.au/vega915/brekky/rockstarmontage.mp3]here[/link]

Hamish and Andy Gravy Chips continue to take EBAY by storm.

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Hamish and Andy inspired Smiths to produce The Gravy flavoured potato chip recently and the limited edition product has been selling for record amounts on EBAY. The 100gram bags of chips are part of a 60 thousand limited production run and at this stage will not be available for retail sale. [link=http://search.ebay.com.au/gravy-chips_W0QQfromZR40QQfrtsZ0]Check them on EBAY here [/link]

Kate admits Nova friction

Saturday, July 5, 2008 | 1 comments »

BREAKFAST radio team Merrick, Rosso and Kate Ritchie have admitted their partnership delivered creative friction but refused to indulge industry rumours they were at loggerheads.

Merrick Watts labelled as untrue persistent industry speculation that he and comedic partner Tim Ross were upset about Ritchie's addition to their morning team.

"No matter who you put in that chair it's going to be bumpy - not in the sense of having blow-ups or personality clashes. It was just about getting the cogs to mesh properly,'' Watts said.
[link=http://www.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/story/0,22049,23974723-5001021,00.html]Full story Sunday Telegraph[/link]

Whopping amount raised for Give Me 5 For Kids

Thursday, July 3, 2008 | 0 comments »

Star FM’s Give Me 5 For Kids campaign raised a whopping $46,010.05 for the children’s ward at Dubbo Base Hospital.
The announcement was made yesterday afternoon by the Star FM radio team, lead by breakfast announcers Ali and Dazza.
“We’d like to thank the entire community for their generous support throughout the month of June,” Dazza said. “To raise these much-needed funds for the kids of Dubbo and across the region is a fantastic effort.” [link=http://dubbo.yourguide.com.au/news/local/news/general/whopping-amount-raised-for-give-me-5-for-kids/804070.aspx] Related item here[/link]

Paul Thompson stands down, creates new CEO post

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PAUL Thompson, founder of DMG Radio Australia which owns the Nova and Vega stations, has today announced he will resign his executive role 12 years after starting the business.

He has handed over executive responsibility to DMG's managing director Cathy O'Connor who takes the new role of CEO.

Mr Thompson will remain the chairman of the unlisted group but in a non-executive capacity.

"Cathy O'Connor is an outstanding executive and a fine person. I'm proud we have someone of such calibre in our organisation and as CEO she will have he guidance and support of the most talented executive team in our industry," Mr Thompson said.
[link=thttp://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,23967494-7582,00.html] Full story The Australian [/link]

Alan Jones has cancer

Wednesday, July 2, 2008 | 0 comments »

2GB Broadcaster Alan Jones has prostate cancer but says he has no plans to give up radio. "We don't do dying around here. We just try and make the most of living," Jones said after revealing his condition at Macquarie Radio's Sydney studios today.
The 67-year-old radio host was diagnosed with cancer in May but kept it secret until this week.
He says he has good prospects of a full recovery following surgery in about two weeks, and will remain on air until the eve of the operation at Sydney's St Vincent's Hospital. [link=http://www.theage.com.au/news/tv--radio/b-health-shock-b-alan-jones-diagnosed-with-prostate-cancer/2008/07/03/1214950935548.html ]More details The Age[/link]

Funny People Needed, Seriously

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Helmes Media Solutions are always developing new and exciting program ideas and are currently looking for young talent interested in beginning their career in commercial radio. What Helmes Media are looking for specifically are people who could contribute to a new radio comedy segment. So if you think you’re funny, send them a demo via email here, this could be the start of something big!

ABC Media Release: Your Winning Olympics Broadcast Team

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ABC Local Radio’s broadcast of the 2008 Games from Beijing will continue the Australian Broadcasting Corporation’s proud history as an Olympic broadcaster. That history has continued unbroken since 1936 with ABC radio providing comprehensive, independent coverage of every Games since then.

An experienced and skilled team of 28 broadcasters, journalists and technical staff will bring Australians all the action from Beijing. Broadcasting over 180 hours of coverage of the Olympic Games, ABC Local Radio (excluding 702 ABC Sydney*) will be the place to hear every classic moment, live, through the afternoon and evening from 8 to 24 August 2008.

With dedicated venue commentary positions at many of the Beijing venues, and access to athletes, officials and production facilities, ABC Local Radio will bring listeners live commentary and reports from every major Games event. Highlights will include live coverage of swimming, track and field, cycling, rowing and sprint canoeing as well as team events involving Australian competitors. The commentary team includes:
Gerry Collins with Susie O’Neill - Swimming
David Morrow with Peter Hadfield - Track and Field
Glenn Mitchell - Cycling
Peter Walsh - Basketball
Drew Morphett with Claire Mitchell-Tavener - Hockey
Tim Gavel with Peter Antonie - Rowing and Canoeing
Reporting on a variety of sports will be Tracey Holmes, Gerard Whateley, Charlie King, Quentin Hull and Caroline Davison. Peter Longman is Executive Producer and Scott Whyte is the Technical Producer.

The Games broadcasts on ABC Local Radio’s network can be heard by more than 99% of the Australian population. ABC Local Radio through its Grandstand team is pleased to have secured the non-commercial broadcast rights for audiences to enjoy the best of national and international sporting events including:
2008 Australia/India Test series
2008 NRL & Rugby League World Cup
2008/09 AFL
2009 Ashes Test series
2009 World 20/20
2009 Womens World Cup Cricket
2009/10 Australian Open Tennis
2011 Cricket World Cup


ABC Local Radio coverage will also be supported by a comprehensive website providing information on athletes and events, records and results, Games history and complete details of daily coverage. Go to:

abc.net.au/olympics
* Regretfully, due to the non-commercial radio broadcast rights agreement for these Games, 702 ABC Sydney will carry all the news & results from Beijing, but is not permitted to bring audiences full live commentary.

702 ABC Sydney audiences miss out on Beijing Olympics commentary

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Following the conclusion of extended negotiations for non-commercial radio rights for Beijing Olympics broadcast, 702 ABC Sydney audiences will not share in the full commentary of this year’s games with the rest of the ABC Local Radio national network.

While the other 59 metropolitan and regional stations of ABC Local Radio will enjoy full commentary from the experienced Grandstand sports broadcast team in Beijing this August, 702 ABC Sydney will not have the same access following the decision of commercial radio rights holder 2GB to exclude the station in the deal.



Editor, ABC Radio Sport Peter Longman today said “We’re extremely disappointed that despite our efforts to secure access to full Games commentary for 702 ABC Sydney audiences, we were unsuccessful. This breaks the hitherto long held record of broadcasting commentary from every Olympics in the modern era to the whole country.”

Sydney audiences will still have Olympics news, results and reports of all the Games action through the 702 ABC Sydney program teams and the trusted, quality range of news and current affairs programs - AM, The World Today and PM. Further, full reports and results will be available at abc.net.au/olympics. It is the daily live commentary to be broadcast from ABC Local Radio’s highly experienced Grandstand sports team that will not however be available in Sydney.

Longman said “We’re currently finalising technical arrangements for the Olympics and knocking out a metropolitan market such as Sydney from our national network presents major technical and scheduling challenges. We’re pleased however that all Local Radio stations in regional NSW are not affected by the 702 ABC Sydney exclusion and will have full commentary coverage.”

ABC Local Radio through its Grandstand programming maintains a strong commitment to broadcasting a full range of major national and international sporting events. Over the next couple of years audiences across Australia will enjoy comprehensive coverage of:

2008 Australia/India Test series
2008 Rugby League World Cup
2008 NRL & Rubgy Union
2008/09 AFL

2009 Ashes Test series
2009 World 20/20
2009 Womens World Cup Cricket
2009/10 Australian Open Tennis
2011 Cricket World Cup

Sammy Sparrow never flew that low

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Just what information is your 9 or 10 year old being feed on the way to school?
Fiona Connolly has presented an interesting and long overdue article in the Daily Telegragh highlighting some of the content being provided on the FM band. Programs talking about subjects probably best suited to the back section of a seedy $5.00 boob and tit magazine. In the article she asks "Where the hell are our radio regulators? What is the Australian Communications and Media Authority listening to? Deborah Cameron?" Read the full story by [link=http://www.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/story/0,22049,23958715-5001031,00.html] here[/link]

Andrew G marries Noa Tishby in Israel

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Andrew G, Host of Take 40 and Australian Idol, has married the love of his life Israeli actress Noa Tishby. The couple wed on June 26 in the small coastal town of Caesarea, about 45km out of Tel Aviv,

Nova moves

Tuesday, July 1, 2008 | 1 comments »

Plenty of moves at Nova 100! Jody McLeod has moved from from nights to afternoons while Johnny Kats, has left the station to concentrate full-time on his standup comedy career. Moving into nights is former afternoon presenter Hayley Pearson who will be joined by former drive anchor Jarrod Walsh.

Mark opts to become Mr Mum

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Mix 106.3 breakfast presenter Mark Parton has quit to take up a new role. Where and what station you may ask? He has resigned to stay home in Canberra with his four children while his wife Vanessa takes up a 15-month Australian Federal Police posting to Solomon Islands as a communications adviser to the local police.
''Vanessa, in the last 10 years, has made a lot of sacrifices because of my job and I think it's probably time that I made a sacrifice for hers,'' he said. [link=http://www.canberratimes.com.au/news/local/news/general/breakfast-radio-presenter-calls-it-quits/800870.aspx] Full story Canberra Times [/link]