ABC Radio personality speaks to USQ students

612ABC Brisbane radio presenter Spencer Howson dropped by the University of Southern Queensland (USQ) Springfield campus to speak with Bachelor of Applied Media (BAM) students about a career in radio this week .

The Breakfast Show presenter shared his own story with students, detailing a career in radio spanning 18 years.

He also shared information about ABC radio across Australia, the expected shift to digital radio, career opportunities in the industry and insider tips.

USQ BAM Lecturer Ashley Jones said the University was grateful to Mr Howson for taking the time to share his knowledge with the students.

'Many of our BAM students are currently involved with producing and presenting programs for the USQ Springfield radio station Phoenix Radio,' Mr Jones said.

'To be able to speak with an industry expert such as Mr Howson was a wonderful opportunity for them as they consider possible careers in the radio industry.

'He also listened to the students recorded segments and the live to air Lunchbox Show and was able to provide feedback and critique their presenting styles.'

Mr Howson said he first became interested in radio at the age of seven when he moved to Australia from England.

'I didn't like to write letters so I began to tape record letters to send back to England to family,' Mr Howson said.

'I completed a degree in journalism at university and began presenting at Brisbane community radio station 4RPH before accepting my first posting with the ABC in Rockhampton.

'I worked in Rocky for two years, 23 days and seven hours - not that I was counting and then moved back to ABC Brisbane where I have been ever since.'

Mr Howson recommended the BAM students get their feet wet in community radio first, where they can learn valuable skills in the medium.

'Working in community radio gives you an opportunity to get the discipline needed in getting timing right. Early experience and practice with timing is invaluable in radio.

'If you want to make a career in radio you should be willing to take a posting in a regional station – that is where the most opportunities are for people starting out in the industry.'

You can tune into Phoenix Radio at www.usq.edu.au/phoenixradio.

For more information or to become involved with the station contact Ashley Jones on +61 7 3470 4642 or phoenixradio@usq.edu.au.

Listeners can tune into Spencer Howson's Breakfast Program from 5.00am to 7.45am on 612ABC.

Media Contact:  Jo-Ann Sparrow, USQ Media, +61 7 3470 4119 or 0438 309 096