NSW & ACT President, Tess Howes, always has been a devotee of the ABC and the crucial role the organisation plays in Australia’s democracy. As a child, her parents limited how much television she could watch, her favourite program being the Addams Family. As with her own children, she grew up on a diet of ABC radio and television and is grateful that the ABC continues to keep everyone informed about local, national, and international news. In particular, she values the analyses provided by quality ABC journalists that keep her thinking about what is occurring around the world.
Currently, Tess is focusing on strategies that Friends of the ABC should undertake prior to the next Federal Election. Her background in community service and leadership roles confirms she is well-qualified for the task ahead. Tess has a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Sydney University and currently teaches in the Master of Business Administration program at Macquarie University.
Her decision to take a prominent role in Friends of the ABC was made at a coffee catch-up at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) with now former President NSW & ACT, Ed Davis. Both share similar views about the critical importance of the ABC as a foundation of our democracy and both are appalled at the recent negative coverage of the ABC by the Murdoch press. Tess says the hostile, unfair and untrue commentaries are all the inspiration she needed to become involved. It is why she sought to stand as NSW & ACT President after Cassandra Parkinson was elected National President.
As the incumbent NSW & ACT President, Tess Howes recognises how essential it is for her to tackle contentious issues on behalf of the membership and take a stand on matters of national importance. She is in agreement with ABC Chairman, Kim Williams, that the Murdoch press commentary is ‘unhinged’, and the inherent negativity warrants minimal reaction or at best is ignored totally. We need to strengthen our own voice in support of the ABC. However, for now, the priority is the preparation and conduct of the organisation’s Federal Election campaign strategy for 2025. The latest Committee meeting has reviewed the Strategic Plan, as outlined elsewhere in this Bulletin.
Tess sees that now is an exciting time and opportunity to lead the Friends of the ABC NSW & ACT and work with the National Committee to help protect our ABC for future generations of Australians. The latter is a cause close to her heart as the mother to five fabulous adult children and ‘Mimi’ to 12 special grandchildren.
ABC Friends NSW & ACT