At the National Ethnic Broadcasters’ conference in Adelaide last weekend the focus was on emerging communities, asylum seekers and refugees.

Conference speakers talked of the important role ethnic radio programs had for new arrivals and refugees in Australia. Several representatives of new and emerging communities told their stories and spoke of the need to be given some time on radio to broadcast in their own language.

South Australian Minister Stephanie Key said “the experience of multiculturalism enriches our lives.” She spoke about detention centres saying:

Refugees and asylum seekers are a difficult issue for state governments. I think people arriving here should receive welcome and support… I find detention centres distressing, especially where children are involved.

Despite my disagreement with the Federal Government on this issue I have to acknowledge that the Minister Philip Ruddock has upheld recommendations that we have made to him about helping people in need, so despite our differences we have a working relationship.”

Another speaker, Serafina Maiorano, spoke from the point of view of a second generation Italian woman, expressing her views on language and how young people use a mixture of English and their first language. They are really only motivated to “connect with their heritage” when they have a need.

She suggested that radio programs and other cultural institutions stimulate those needs to help the next generation connect with their ethnic backgrounds.

Other topics on the conference agenda were training sessions on writing sponsorship announcements; codes and practices; youth workshops; and better broadcasting workshops.

At the conference Darce Cassidy was announced as the new Executive Officer of the NEMBC, replacing Bruce Francis, who recently resigned. Bruce Francis received a lifetime contribution award at the CBAA conference awards the week before.