Community News

Community Radio at Alive

Australia’s first community radio station was licensed in 1972 and the sector has developed rapidly over. Its 40-year history.

The number of permanently licensed stations has grown by over 75% in the last decade. Community radio stations operate in towns and cities across Australia with the largest proportion located in regional and remote areas (76%), and 24% across metropolitan and suburban locations.

In 1988 The Hills Council allocated Building 9 in the historic Balcombe Heights Estate to Cumberland Community Radio (2CCR) and between 1987 and 1989 the first test broadcasts went to air. Community Broadcasting Association of Australia (CBBA) surveys show that up to 6 million Australians tune in to 450+ not-for-profit, community-owned and operated radio services operating across the country each week.

H2Hjune3 Community Radio At AliveThese stations provide programming that caters to the needs and interest groups of their communities and contribute to and reflect an Australia that is an open society, a strong democracy and a vibrant culture. Alive 90.5 is proud to uphold these community values and provide for the Cumberland, Parramatta and Hills areas.

In fact, at the last CBBA awards Alive was recognised as Outstanding Small Station which we were all very proud of. Alive 90.5 provides opportunities for people, especially young people, to gain experience for a radio career.

Past presenter, Tim Wong See, at the age of 12 built his own radio station (transmitter and all) in his home. It wasn’t until a knock at the door by officials from the Australian Communications and Media Authority that the transmitters were turned off and he indulged his passion at Alive each Saturday, being he was still at school.

Tim had a meteoric rise in radio and he now presents the Breakfast show on ABC Great Southern. Australian Spectrum, as the name suggests, highlights Australian music and artists as do other shows. Delta Goodrem featured on the station early in her career and look where she is now. Other presenters interview our locals and give them a voice. Pick’n’mix have spoken with author Nicola Moriarty and Tamsin (award-winning singer/ songwriter).

Not for profit groups are always welcome to submit community service announcements which are put to air free of charge. Radio stations cost a lot to run so we do appreciate the support of all our local sponsors. Sponsorship packages are available on our website.

Other than sponsors we rely on fund raising, grants, air fees and membership fees. Currently we’re saving for a 3rd studio for community use and to provide a revenue stream for the station. Many members have found a home amongst all the friendly volunteers and enjoy contributing through their shows. Why don’t you think about becominga member as well? Our web address is alive905.com.au.

Community Radio

Related Articles

Check Also
Close
Back to top button