ABC ‘Methuselah’ Robyn Williams Gives a Candid Insider’s View for the Alumni

Posted on December 27, 2022 by Peter Marks

Science broadcaster Robyn Williams has trod the corridors of the ABC for half a century. Best known for his long-running and internationally renowned The Science Show, he combines a fine mix of in-depth and often quirky reporting that attracts old and young alike. We asked this self-described ABC ‘Methuselah’ for his inside assessment of the public broadcaster today, his views of some of the criticisms and what he’d like to see change. Rejuvenating the ABC? And who is Fella Nullius? – Methusela...

The ABC of Australian Christmas Carols

Posted on December 10, 2022 by Peter Marks

Often forgotten in recollections of ABC achievements is the national broadcaster’s role in creating a collection of much-loved Australian Christmas carols. Former staff sound librarian and music collections coordinator Lynne Carmichael was introduced to them while singing in choirs in her 20s and 30s. They’ve formed an important part of her own Christmas celebrations ever since. By Lynne Carmichael / 10 December 2022 I was 10 years old when my family moved to Australia from England. So my firs...

Muzzling Mulligan

Posted on December 6, 2022 by Peter Marks

Last week, the ACT’s Director of Public Prosecutions announced that there would be no retrial of Bruce Lehrmann, because it would pose a “significant and unacceptable risk to the life of the complainant”, Brittany Higgins. It’s a classic example of the dilemma that confronts our courts in the trial of alleged sexual offenders. The accused is entitled to the presumption of innocence, until proved guilty beyond reasonable doubt. He or she is also entitled to decline to give evidence – the “right ...

The Ten Rules of Reporting

Posted on December 3, 2022 by Peter Marks

Few people are as well qualified to give practical advice about journalistic practice as former ABC Editorial Director, and now Alumni Board member, Alan Sunderland. We asked author and Professor of Communications Matthew Ricketson to review Alan’s new book The Ten Rules of Reporting: Journalism for the Community (Simon & Schuster, 2022).BOOK REVIEW The Ten Rules of Reporting: Journalism for the Community by Alan Sunderland Reviewed by Matthew Ricketson / 3 December 2022 Taking a cue from...