Radio station up for national nod

PHOENIX FM is in the running for recognition in two categories of the 2024 Community Broadcasting Association of Australia national awards.

The Bendigo station is a finalist in the Excellence in Disability Content and Engagement, and Outstanding Technical Contribution categories, with winners to be announced at an association conference on the Gold Coast on 19 October.

Its entry in the disability content section was submitted to highlight the diversity of program content and the people who present them – many of whom have varying degrees of disability.

The station’s technical guru, Peter Williams, was nominated for an Outstanding Technical Contribution award because of his work with the station since its beginnings.

Station secretary Anne Conway said Phoenix FM submitted seven entries, with more than 300 lodged in 20 categories from around Australia.

“The CBAA has said that the submissions showcased the passion, creativity and dedication that drives the vibrant community broadcasting sector,” Ms Conway said.

“As a solely volunteer-run community radio station, Phoenix FM competes for these awards with many much larger metropolitan stations with huge budgets and numerous paid employees.”

Ms Conway said Phoenix FM celebrates diversity.

“This inclusiveness is reflected in the diversity of the volunteers presenting radio programs, many of whom have varying degrees of ability but who are encouraged and supported,” she said.

Ms Conway said “technical powerhouse” Mr Williams had been integral to station operations since its inception in 2006 and its first test transmission in 2008.

“He is our head technician to this day and holds the executive committee position of technical adviser to the committee of management,” she said.