A small group of enthusiastic participants from Charlton, Donald, Wycheproof, and Birchip recently came together to trial podcasting and broadcasting equipment in a hands-on, skills-sharing session designed to support future community storytelling and fundraising.
This introductory workshop involved teachers, students, and local leaders—many of whom were involved in the rollout of Buloke Shire’s award-winning 2023 vodcasting initiative “The Paddock: The Goals, which delivered important information in the wake of the October 2022 Flood event.”
Inspiration
Adding inspiration to the day was a special visit from Brayden Cocks, Director of Rolln Media who was engaged in producing the initiative.
Brayden, who grew up on a farm at Echuca, shared his personal journey from persuading his English teacher to let him submit assignments on video, to launching a career in Melbourne that now sees him operating two studios and producing content for major sporting and entertainment clients across Australia and beyond.
He was eager to give back to the country communities that shaped him, recognising the grit and determination of those who’ve worked hard for every opportunity, highlighting the contrast between individuals who’ve earned their place through effort and ingenuity, and those through connections.
Aware of how tough it is for rural students to break into competitive industries, he’s committed to helping level the playing field.
Session
The session focused on the technical operation of professional podcasting equipment—cameras, microphones and switching stations—with the aim of enabling participants to share their learning with others across their communities.
“This initiative reflects our commitment to empowering community voices,” said Buloke Shire Council Mayor, Alan Getley.
“By temporarily hiring this equipment for local groups to explore digital communication, we hope it sparks interest in continuing independently.
“It could even play a shared role in community-driven communication during emergencies.”
Broader aim
The broader aim of this pilot is to allow communities to trial the gear and explore its potential, including:
- Capturing oral histories and local stories
- Promoting local events and fundraisers
- Supporting youth engagement through creative media
- Building resilience through shared storytelling and skill development
This initiative is part of Council’s and the Australian and Victorian Government’s commitment to supporting inclusive, community-led recovery, funded by the Community Recovery Hubs Program.
“It’s great to see communities discover new ways to connect and express themselves through creativity and digital innovation,” added Acting Regional Recovery Manager Loddon Mallee Region, Meagan Keating.
“Emergency Recovery Victoria (ERV) is proud to support the Community Recovery Hubs Program to empower communities to foster resilience, creativity, and a renewed sense of unity as the community rebuilds from emergencies.”
This article appeared in The Buloke Times, 8 April 2025.
