Researching ABC Rockhampton TV, 1963-85

Two Decades of Regional Television Broadcasting

Authors

  • Denis Cryle Central Queensland University
  • Christina Hunt Central Queensland University
  • Ross Quinn Central Queensland University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1017/S1321816600005250

Keywords:

ABC Rockhampton TV, regional television, Australian Broadcasting Commission, 1963-1985

Abstract

In 1963, Rockhampton was chosen by the Australian Broadcasting Commission to become its first television station in Queensland. ABC Rockhampton TV belonged to a select number of outlets that, in the days before aggregation and extensive networking, gathered and broadcast their own news and local programs to regional viewers. This article details the unearthing and preservation of records vital to this research, and uses these to document the highs and lows of the Rockhampton station. We argue that the history of ABC Rockhampton TV forms a neglected chapter in the 'getting of regional television' and the production of local content, and provides an account ofthe early operations ofthe organisation from its inception in 1963, an overview of its achievements and an explanation of the reasons for its abrupt demise in the mid-1980s. Additionally, we identify the achievements of particular programs and staff members, and acknowledge the personal tragedies that dogged the station and its community in the closing phase.

Author Biographies

  • Denis Cryle, Central Queensland University

    Denis Cryle is Professor and Chair in Communication and Media Studies at Central Queensland University. He has written extensively on the media, including Queensland print and visual media.

  • Christina Hunt, Central Queensland University

    Christina Hunt is a PhD candidate and researcher at Central Queensland University, with a background working for the ABC and in documentary.

  • Ross Quinn, Central Queensland University

    Ross Quinn is an Adjunct Professor at Central Queensland University. He has three decades of media experience, and was formerly executive producer and manager of ABC Radio and Television in Rockhampton.

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Downloads

Published

2010-01-01

Issue

Vol. 17 No. 1 (2010)

Section

Articles

How to Cite

Cryle, D., Hunt, C., & Quinn, R. (2010). Researching ABC Rockhampton TV, 1963-85: Two Decades of Regional Television Broadcasting. Queensland Review, 17(1), 47-57. https://doi.org/10.1017/S1321816600005250