Dr Ashley Jones will share his perspective on the value of local radio.
The University of Southern Queensland’s work in local radio will be a subject of discussion during a symposium in London this Saturday (November 18).
The symposium, being held at the University of Westminster, will mark the 50th anniversary of the launch of BBC Local Radio.
USQ Senior Lecturer (TV and Radio Broadcast) Dr Ashley Jones will be one of the presenters at the event, which will consider the role local radio services play in today’s society.
Dr Jones will address the symposium via video link to speak about the value of local radio and how it supports localism.
“I am deeply honoured to be part of this special gathering in London and to participate in the symposium,” he said.
“Local media generally, and radio specifically, is vital to a healthy democratic society. The BBC Local Radio service is a significant example of radio serving local audiences in the 21st century.
“It is the lifeblood of the local community and radio remains a very important part of many regional and provincial centres.”
Dr Jones will also be joining a panel of experts and radio practitioners to discuss the legacy and future of local radio broadcasting.
“There is a rich history of local radio in the United Kingdom, just as it is here in Australia,” Dr Jones said.
“I have a deep interest in local media and how it supports and values its community.
“We had a great example right here in Ipswich with 4IP.”
Next year USQ will celebrate 10 years since launching its own student-run radio station, Phoenix Radio.
Serving the Ipswich community 24 hours, seven days a week, the live streaming service provides USQ’s Film, Television and Radio students at USQ Springfield the chance to build their broadcasting skills while working with the local community to produce shows of interest.
Students also have access to industry-standard equipment and training thanks to the University’s state-of-the-art Media Centre, which houses both television and radio studios.
“We train students to be on-air presenters, producers and in commercial production,” Dr Jones said.
“They may undertake journalism but we are about developing well-rounded on-air presenters and we are the only university in Queensland that does this.
“I hope the symposium will open up some solid discussion, challenges and successes in the sector so we can continue to grow this part of the media industry.”