Passionate advocates for the ABC have been fighting and campaigning to protect the ABC and its funding since 1976. To mark this significant 50 year milestone in June 2026, ABC Friends Victoria hosted an event at the Capitol Theatre in Melbourne, inviting members from across the decades, to celebrate, reflect and reminisce.

Meg Paul (centre), Victoria’s founding member, cut the celebratory birthday cake. Jennifer Bowen (left) & Pam Creed (right) Photo:  Elijah Cristiano

Greetings and well wishes were received from many who couldn’t attend, including several recorded messages, one from ABC Managing Director Hugh Marks.

Amanda Smith, a former ABC journalist, kindly agreed to MC the formalities, which began with a discussion with Jennifer Bowen, about the history of ABC Friends, and her research for the brilliant new history website, The first 50 Years. Members were shown highlights of the website, which included ABC footage about ABC Friends.

Jennifer (left) and Amanda (right). Photo:  Elijah Cristiano

Visit the history website

After a musical interlude, a video remix of images and Tim Scolly performing Mike Brady’s Where Would We Be Without the ABC the audience were presented with a panel discussion lead by Amanda. ABC broadcaster Jonathan Green, media academic Denis Muller, former ABC journalist and podcaster Nicole Chvastek, were invited to share their first memories of the ABC, before discussing the issues and current threats facing the ABC and independent media today. Brian Nankervis, performer and broadcaster, warmed the audience into party mode with a mini RocKwiz. 

Brian Nankervis. Photo:  Elijah Cristiano

The informal celebration was a great chance to meet with others, share memories over the past fifty years, discuss the ABC, its enemies, and be re-energised to continue to the stand up for the ABC, as an important part of our democracy. 

Photo:  Elijah Cristiano