By Sebastian Langdon
Carol Adamson’s career at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) wasn’t just a job, it was a masterclass in exploring the evolving landscape of television.
From her early days as a contract officer at Film Australia to becoming a crucial figure in ABC’s Television Acquisitions and Policy departments, Adamson’s journey is proof of passion, being versatile, and the art of keeping things on track, no matter how chaotic the day might get.
“I was working at Film Australia, and the position of Business Manager for the Television Acquisitions Department was advertised,” said Adamson. “I applied and got it.”
It was a role that blended her organisational expertise with her love for television.
Overseeing the acquisition, delivery, and transfer of programs for the network, she worked closely with the programming department, making sure budgets were balanced and deadlines were met.
However, when the role was supposed to be shifting away from television to a wider business division, Carol took a stand.
“Television was my great love,” she said.
Having already spent 13 years at SBS, she knew her passion was placed firmly in the field of broadcast media.
This determination led Adamson to a role in the ABC’s Policy Department, working alongside the head of policy for eight fascinating years.
“I’ve always been an avid ABC fan. Our national broadcaster is a fantastic source of information and entertainment, be it radio or television,” she said.
For Adamson, the opportunity to contribute to this was a dream come true.
No two days were ever the same at the ABC.
“In acquisitions, you were always chasing programs, ensuring they’d been delivered and that all departments’ promotion, publicity, editing had what they needed to get the program ready for air,” she said.
Despite the fast-paced environment, Adamson thrived. Her secret? Organisation, curiosity, and modesty.
“I’ve always been very organized, had great relationships with my colleagues, and never been afraid to ask questions or admit when I was wrong.”
But above all, she credits one key attribute. “A sense of humour can be your best asset.”
While much of Adamson’s production work took place during her time at SBS, her time at the ABC was far from uneventful.
One of her most significant tasks was the complex relocation of the television management group about 60 people, including scheduling, publicity, promotions, and administrative staff from Gore Hill to Ultimo.
“It was a massive project,” she said, “but incredibly satisfying once it was done.”
Another standout experience was her involvement in assessing a new scheduling system for the network.
This project took her on a journey across the globe, from the BBC in London to RIA in Italy, RTL in Budapest, and CBC in Canada.
Although her group’s recommendation wasn’t initially taken on, the same system was put into practice three years later, a bittersweet victory.
Adamson witnessed enormous changes during her decade at the ABC, reflecting the broader shifts in the media landscape.
Technology advanced, new viewing trends were introduced, and the industry faced new challenges in how programs were received, scheduled, and delivered.
Through it all, Adamson remained committed, adapting to the evolving demands of her roles and cherishing her time as part of Australia’s most iconic broadcaster.
“I’ve always believed in the importance of the ABC’s role in informing and entertaining the nation,” she said.
With her incredible journey, Carol Adamson not only upheld that mission but also left her mark on the corporation she always loved.
Her decade at the ABC wasn’t just about balancing budgets or chasing down programs. It was about embodying the green and gold spirit of Australia’s beloved national broadcaster.
Whether carrying a major department relocation or traveling the globe in pursuit of the perfect scheduling system, Carol approached every challenge with humour, heart, and a love for the art of television.
Her journey from Film Australia to the ABC shows not only her dedication to the field but also her ability to adapt in the face of change, an important skill in an industry that never sits still.
“There was no such thing as a typical day,” she said.
Though she clearly thrived in the unpredictable chaos of television. Whether it was juggling budgets, troubleshooting deliveries, or travelling the world for a new scheduling system, Adamson always found a way to make it work.
Her work may have happened behind the scenes, but her contributions and attitude supported the shows and segments Australians tuned into every day.
As she reflects on her time, one thing remains certain, her passion for the ABC shows the dedication the broadcaster itself holds toward informing and entertaining the nation.
For Adamson, it wasn’t just a career but an adventure. And like any great ABC program, her story is one of value, heart, and a lasting connection with the audience, even from behind the curtain.
Feature image: Working behind the scenes for ABC TV has been a joy for Carol Adamson. Photo: PJ R/CC/flickr
