The effectiveness of keeping issues in the public arena using local newspapers or radio cannot be underestimated.
Experience shows that comments from a number of people in the community rather than from a few of the "regular contributors" increase the likelihood of getting effective media coverage.

The Coastwatchers committee urges members to become more active in this vital role. The following information will hopefully assist you in this endeavour.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:
This is a good starting point for those who are new to the role.

Points to remember:
Use no more than 250 words

• Address it to "The Editor"
• Your heading should reflect the main point in your letter
• Your opening sentence should also spell out your main point
• Provide your full name, address and phone number. If your letter is to be published, someone will telephone you to confirm that you are the author. At this stage you can ask for your name to be withheld.

Bay Post
Email: editor.baypost.@ruralpress.com
Fax: 4472 6577
Mail: P.O. Box 441, Batemans Bay
Canberra Times:
Email: editor@canberratimes.com.au
Elicia Murray is a good contact, her phone number is 02 6280 2294

SPEAKING ON RADIO

Getting an interview on radio

• ABC South East Radio provides excellent South Coast coverage
  Email or fax your information or media release, AND then phone within minutes to confirm that it has been received
• Have what you want to say clearly in your mind. Be concise. Less is more
• Be prepared. The journalist may want to record a "grab" for a radio story on the spot

Contacts:
Rod Ashcroft - a journalist with an interest in South Coast issues.
Email address: ashcroft.rod@abc.net.au
Phone: 02 6491 6032

Maurie Ferry is also another good contact. Newsroom : 02 6491 6030
ABC S.E. Radio fax: 02 6491 6099

Tim Holt 's program is the one to be on if you want an "in depth" interview He can be contacted via the ABC Reception on 02 6491 6011

Ian Campbell at 2EC:
Ph 6492 1633
news@2ec.com.au

PowerFM:
powerfm@acr.net.au

Talkback radio
Coastwatchers needs our members to tune in whenever possible to keep an eye on what is being said and phone in with comments to restore any imbalance in discussions.

Phone ABC S.E.Radio on 6491 6011, and say you want to comment on "x" issue.

ABC Illawarra is beamed down the South Coast in the afternoons. To make contact with the presenter, Bonita Brown (Bonnie), phone: 02 4428 4511 or 02 4428 4500, or email: theafternoonshow@your.abc.net.au