IAMCR Panel: Dr Matt Mollgaard, Auckland University of Technology; Dr Andrew Ó Baoill, University of Galway, Ireland; Cameron Harland, Chief Executive NZ On Air & Margaret Cassidy, University of Sydney & CBF Board Vice President.
Our CBF Board Vice President, Margaret Cassidy, had the pleasure of attending this year’s International Association of Media and Communications Research (IAMCR) Conference in Christchurch/ Ōtautahi, New Zealand/Aotearoa.
Joining experts from around the world to discuss the community radio sector from a global perspective, Margaret spoke on the panel for Special Session ‘Community Radio: Connection, Change and Continuity in Challenging Times’ (supported by NZ on Air). From discussions about the Australian Community Broadcasting sector to the Roadmap 2033 and beyond – the session explored important key challenges faced by community radio today across the globe, including the changing mediascape and the balance of public policy aspirations versus the dilemmas of funding broadcasting at the edges of the ‘mainstream’.
Margaret also stopped by the wonderful Plains FM and RDU 98.5 FM in Christchurch/Ōtautahi to catch up with RDU FM Station Manager James Meharry and Plains FM Station Manager Nicki Reece.
CBF Board Vice President Margaret Cassidy and RDU FM Station Manager James Meharry
RDU 98.5 FM is student radio station that prides itself on playing ‘new and intelligently written music from the local scene and abroad’. For over 45 years, RDU has supported alternative culture in Christchurch by championing emerging talent and giving a voice to people on the fringes. The station is a huge supporter of local music with a dedicated recording space ‘Saltbox Studios’ for local bands and live music sessions.
Plains FM is an access community station with an incredible monthly program of 90 unique radio shows in 20 languages – including content for and by migrant communities and other minority groups. Providing access for community groups and volunteers to get involved, the station is one of 12 independent Access entities in New Zealand/Aotearoa and is a member of the CAMA – Community Access Media Alliance. The station has been broadcasting since 1988 serving the plains of the mid-Canterbury region of Te Wai Pounamu, with livestreaming and selected podcasts (via Apple podcasts) available to the rest of the world.