SWAN Hill’s community radio station 99.1 Smart FM is cranking is up the volume in a callout for community members to get behind the valuable local resource.
Now in its 21st year, the station was greatly impacted by COVID but is now back on track and looking for people to join the team.
Funded via the Community Broadcasting Association of Australia, community radio stations are independent, not-for-profit community stations which aim to provide a platform for all walks of life, including those often-overlooked by mainstream media.
Long time amateur presenter with Smart FM, Josh Klabbers, said the station’s licence was coming up for renewal by CBAA and could really use a boost.
“One of the things they look at when considering whether to issue a licence renewal is membership numbers,” he said.
“A membership only costs $20 but it’s not about the money so much as a show of numbers to support a community radio station.
“By being a member and helping us increase our numbers supports us to have our five-year licence renewed.
“We have struggled with numbers since the pandemic, given the size of the DJ booths, we were hamstrung by distancing rules.
“We’ve recently been struck by technical problems with an antenna requiring maintenance, but now we are back and looking to make the station bigger and better than ever.”
A community radio station differs from a commercial station as it is not reliant on sponsorship and is not governed or controlled in the same way.
“There are strict rules about advertising and sponsorship and our sponsor messages must not take up more than five minutes within every hour,” Mr Klabbers said.
“We also have a strong focus on positive news and delivering a variety of different programs for our listeners.
“Our announcers are often passionate about the program topics they present so you will get a very detailed and enthusiastic show.
“Each presenter brings their own ideas and we would love to see some new faces in the studio.”
Smart FM welcomes anyone with a passion for amateur radio announcing, a view to professional announcing or just anyone with an issue or idea they would like to get out into the community.
Some examples of current programs include Beautiful Music / Classic Country, Old School, Aussie Country, Harmony Hub, Thank God it’s Friday, The Gospel Show and Groovin’ with Glen.
Programs include a mix of music, discussion and interviewing of local identities or drivers of local events and initiatives.
The station also has resources to conduct outdoor broadcasts at local events.
Mr Klabbers’ love of radio began many years ago and was facilitated by a radio set in his shed, known as Ham Radio.
Jennifer Muscat had always wanted to host her own radio program and joining the Smart FM community as secretary of the committee has put her in the music seat.
“I’ve always liked radio and hosting was always on my bucket list,” she said.
“I am training with Josh at the moment but once completed I will host a disco program with a mix of 80s and 90s music as well.”
The station airs 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Announcers can focus on whatever they’re interested in, be it a music genre, a cooking program or interviewing local legends.
Some announcers do little talking during their program time, focusing on the music and only introducing the song titles.
The station does not receive funding and relies on the financial support largely through membership and community grants.
The station is located at 152 Curlewis Street, Swan Hill and broadcasts within a 50km radius.
It also offers an online streaming service via the website.
To find out how you can get involved or offer your support call 5032 5991 or email smartfm@smartfm.com.au.
