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Chockstone Forum - General Discussion

General Climbing Discussion

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Fires 2009 12-Feb-2009 At 11:25:17 AM Paz

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RK I feel incredibly sorry for what you and others have had to go through. I'm also not disagreeing with what you have said, especially with the reporting being told with respect for those affected, rather I'm just putting my opinion out there.

On 12/02/2009 RK wrote:
>As for press and photographers - the mods would delete the words I have for those that have managed to get up here. Much of their behaviour has been appaling. Although the story of what has happened here must be told, it must be told with respect for those who do not want cameras pushed into their faces during a time of family and community tragedy. Josh...I hope the message has sunk in. Please go and make a great living out of what you seem to do so well...but don't make it on the back of human grief and suffering. We don't want nor need you guys up here. "

You have to remember in Josh's defense that he was going to donate all money raised by his work. Someone willing to do that isn't going to just stick a camera in someones face against their will and snap away.

You also cannot stereotype all kinds of journalists as one frothing mass - it's like comparing the news value of Today Tonight with SBS News, there is a difference. Commercial TV networks will have an agenda to get the most human interest coverage - so those guys will be the super desperate ones knocking on your door.

Other media does have a role. if it wasn't for ABC radio's coverage of the fires many more people would have died. Having a portable radio is one of the first things you'd need in a fire-plan. Especially when the phone lines and power go out.

Another sensitive point is the amount of donations recieved. This wouldn't be possible without the media's over-coverage.

if you do come across journo's who act unethical or ignore your rights, contact Mediawatch
Best wishes out there.