On 2 October about thirty people gathered in the Shepparton library to see the ABC Friends travelling exhibition and hear a presentation from the Victorian ABC Friends historian Jennifer Bowen.

And then, as something of a bonus, they were treated to a discussion between Shepparton’s ABC Radio host, Nic Healey, and Shepparton woman, Meg Pethybridge.

Nic, who hosts ABC Statewide each weekday talked about his journey into radio broadcasting that followed many years working in trade magazine preparation and publishing.

All speakers emphasised the importance of the ABC, a sentiment reflected by many during discussions over afternoon tea.

ABC Friends Goulburn Valley convenor, Robert McLean, welcomed the speakers and of course those who had come along to hear Ms Bowen and Mr Healey.

Mr McLean talked briefly about the confusion many experience when they inappropriately link the corporate affairs of the ABC with the advocacy of ABC Friends.

All saw the launch as a wonderful and important event.

Those attending left with a better understanding of both the ABC and ABC Friends from a historical perspective and what’s is demanded of an ABC radio host.

The exhibition will run from October 1 to 21 before moving to Banyule.

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