Jon Faine to give A N Smith Lecture
[ UniNews Vol. 12, No. 4
24 March - 7 April 2003 ]
Award-winning 774 ABC Melbourne presenter Jon Faine (right) will tackle the subject of talkback radio when he gives the 2003 A N Smith Lecture in Journalism at the University of Melbourne next week (Tuesday 1 April).
Jon freely admits that talkback can offer the best and worst of radio and he will use his lecture In Defence of Talkback to dissect the talkback phenomenon. What sort of journalism is talkback? Is it journalism at all, or is it entertainment, or even the most democratic and authentic form of communication yet devised an instant readout of public opinion on any topic nominated? And what of independence? And cash-for-comment?
He says that as with all forms of journalism, there are talkback radio presenters who pitch to the lowest common denominator and others who aim higher. One common ingredient the interactivity between the audience, the presenter and the world at large binds all talkback programs, making them compelling listening, he says.
Well-known for his provocative and probing debate, quick wit and ability to ask the most difficult questions, Jon Faine says that the joy of talkback radio is its totally unpredictable nature.
His lecture will also support his view that talkback radio has a healthy future that it is stronger than ever and showing no sign of disappearing.
Jon Faine began his working life as a lawyer, practising law for seven years before his career path took a dramatic turn following an appearance as a guest on Radio Nationals Law Report. He found he felt at home in front of the microphone and went on to present the program for four years. He then presented 774 ABC Melbournes morning and afternoon programs and has also worked in television on ABC TVs Investigators, First Edition and Wise Up.
For almost seven years, Jon has been the popular and respected presenter of the 774 ABC Melbourne Morning Program, discussing everything from politics to the arts and popular culture to sport with guests from many fields.
With his Morning Program team, Jon recently won the Melbourne Press Clubs 2002 Quill Award for Best Radio New Report for his coverage of the collapse of Ansett.
The lecture is at 6.00pm on Tuesday 1 April 2003 in Lecture Theatre GM15, Law Building, University Square. It is free and open to the public but an RSVP is necessary to 8344 3885.
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