Just passed to me - upcoming new B3 service....<br /><br />GlobeCast Australia announces the launch of Australia’s first multi cultural community DTH Service, AMTV, on Optus B3<br /><br />“New free-to-air multicultural television network for Australia and New Zealand, to launch in Dec 2004<br /><br />SYDNEY, November 30th, 2004 – GlobeCast Australia announced today the launch of AMTV (Australian Multicultural Television Network), Australia’s first full-time DTH channel dedicated to the local ethnic communities. Hosted on the Optus B3 platform, the channel will commence broadcasting in Dec 2004.<br /><br />The Channel will comprise daily segments of programming focused on each of Australia’s main ethnic groups, and will provide locally produced, topical content. It will also feature community level programmes and events filmed directly by AMTV in the local area. There will be live community forums discussing various issues showcasing the cultural diversity of our Country.<br /><br />Salvatore Scevola, CEO of AMTV said “ The service will provide viewers with living community forums where the unique and diverse cultures that make up Australia will be showcased, and where the community itself gets chance to be part of the showcase – a form of service by the community for the community. The service is fully dedicated to the local ethnic communities that make up the rich cultural tapestry of Australia as we see it today. It represents a real opportunity for local producers to reach and be seen beyond the confines of traditional television models ”.<br /><br /> “ We are proud to welcome AMTV to our platform. The service heralds an exciting new concept and format in community broadcasting in Australia, and we see exciting synergies in hosting this service amongst our other established and successful DTH Customers” said Phil Sansome of GlobeCast Australia.<br /><br />AMTV will be locally produced from a consortium of program providers of the former Channel 31 Community TV in Sydney. Collectively the consortium has over 50 years experience in producing community Television, Radio and Print Media for Australia’s Multicultural Communities. Other professional community television providers are welcome to incorporate their services on the AMTV program line-up.<br /><br />Viewers and content providers wishing to access AMTV can contact Salvatore Scevola on : salvatorescevola@bigpond.com or on 0416-354-410 (Int: +61-416-354-410)<br /><br />About GlobeCast Australia<br /><br />GlobeCast Australia is the Sydney-based unit of GlobeCast (www.globecast.com) - a subsidiary of France Telecom (NYSE:FTE) – the leading international satellite services company, operating a global network of satellite distribution platforms for DTH and cable broadcast, enterprise media and advanced IP-based content delivery. <br /><br />GlobeCast distributes more than 500 channels worldwide to supply Direct-to-Home Pay TV providers and cable operators. The company specializes in satellite delivery of multicultural and “ethnic” programming to overseas markets through multiple platforms, including the GlobeCast WorldTV DTH service in America and the GlobeCast TV (Optus B3) and PanGlobal TV (PAS 8) platforms in Australia. <br /><br />About AMTV<br /><br />AMTV is an Australian based company specializing in community based programming and delivery. The AMTV board comprises a consortium of local programme producers covering Arabic, European, Asian, Baltic and English language Groups. AMTV will be broadcasting live from a new purpose built HQ and production facilities in Liverpool, South West Sydney. A primary objective of the company is to represent the communities of interest of Australia’s diverse community groups. <br /><br />_____________________________________________________________________<br /><br />Sales Contact: Phil Sansome + 612 8258 7963