General News
8 July, 2026
Discover the magic behind the mic
PEOPLE with a keen interest in broadcasting and media will be offered an opportunity, later this month, to experience what happens at their local radio station with a practical look behind the microphone.
The day will include finding out how local stories make it to air, online and into the community.
Douglas FM is inviting public to an ‘Intro to Community Media Workshop’, a free one-day opportunity to find out how community media works and the way locals in the Douglas Shire can be part of it.
“Community media is the heartbeat of local life, it’s where we hear about the school fete, discover local events and organisations and debate the state of our roads,” said Douglas FM station manager Bryan Bergman.
Participants will explore the role of community radio, compare it with commercial media and the ABC and discover the roles that keep a station running, from presenting and producing to podcasting, social media, events and technical support.
The focus of the workshop will be less on technology and more about storytelling, including interview practice, local story telling, basic photography and video, plus simple ways to plan content, use social media and get produced work to air or online.
The workshop will be led by media trainer Martin Corben, a media professional with more than 30 years’ local, national and international experience across radio, social media and training.
“Every single person in this community has a story worth telling and my job is to help you find the confidence to tell it. Whether you’re nervous or a natural, there’s a place for you here,” he said.
“Whether you want to host, report, produce, podcast or help behind the scenes, this workshop is for you.”
The day is supported by the Community Media Training Organisation (CMTO), a national organisation developing community media skills and expertise.
The free workshop is on 18 July, from 10am-4pm.
Spaces will be limited, so booking is essential by contacting the Douglas FM station manager via email: info@douglasfm.au
Editor’s note: Gary ‘Gazza’ McIlroy is a radio presenter on Douglas FM.
