NSW: Channel Nine tries to stop ABC from televising fireworks

AAP General News (Australia)
12-22-1999
NSW: Channel Nine tries to stop ABC from televising fireworks

Australians will not be able to watch the ABC's coverage of Sydney's New Year's Eve
fireworks spectacular if rival network Channel Nine has its way in court.

The ABC and Channel Nine were today in the Federal Court fighting over the rights to
televise the event.

Channel Nine is seeking to stop its rival from broadcasting within Australia the fireworks
display and associated events, claiming it has exclusive rights to televise all New Year's
Eve events.

However, the ABC will be able to provide coverage to international viewers through
an agreement with the BBC.

Meanwhile, Justice DONALD HILL says the fireworks display will be an event of international
significance that one would expect any television channel to report on.

Justice Hill is expected to hand down his judgment tomorrow morning.

AAP RTV gl/wz/jn

KEYWORD: ABC (SYDNEY)

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