Radio Birdman & Documentary Director Rally To Get ABC To Buy Their Film

Radio Birdman and the director of their documentary, Descent into the Maelstrom – The Radio Birdman Story, are calling for support after the ABC declined to acquire the film for broadcast. 

In a statement posted to Facebook on Friday, the legendary Sydney outfit said they are "disappointed but not really surprised" by the ABC's decision and are encouraging fans to lodge complaints with the broadcaster.

"Considering the highly relevant content of the film, from the perspective of Australian music history, ABC was the obvious choice of channel," the statement reads.

update: Anthony Albanese Joins Calls For ABC To Buy Radio Birdman's Documentary

"Despite being given a deeply discounted rate, and after several months of silence, the elite leadership at the taxpayer-funded ABC are refusing to show the film, now or at any time in the future."

See the full post below.

It comes after the 2018 Budget revealed that the ABC is set to lose $84 million in the coming years with its annual funding indexation to be frozen for three years starting in July next year.

In a statement given to The Music today, the documentary's director, Jonathan Sequeira, said, "At a time of budget cuts, it’s more important than ever that the ABC fulfils its charter, particularly in relation to Australian content, Australian identity and addressing market failure.

"Descent into the Maelstrom – The Radio Birdman Story represents a bargain opportunity for the ABC to do all these things. Similar programs have cost the ABC $100,00 to $200,000 each!

"Descent into the Maelstrom would cost the ABC less than was paid to use their archival footage (approximately $12,000). They could broadcast it and still make a profit!

"Those who have seen the film, understand the cultural significance of Radio Birdman, beyond their music.

"The ABC seems intent on denying this to their audience."

The Music has contacted ABC for comment.