And Western Sydney community radio station SWR 99.9 FM wants to say a huge thank you to their many volunteers because they wouldn’t be where they are today without their volunteers.
SWR celebrated 30 years of serving Western Sydney in 2023, a wonderful achievement built on the back of thousands of volunteers donating hundreds of thousands of hours.
"Strong community radio makes for strong communities," said Wayne ‘Busco’ Buscombe, Breakfast Show host of 14 years and station manager.
"Actually, I stole that from Michelle Rowland, our current Federal Minister for Communications who popped in for a chat and play some tunes recently.
"It’s fantastic to have someone like Minister Rowland, who is not only a proud ‘Westie’ but a passionate supporter of community radio recognising our contribution to the media landscape."
During the unprecedented events of the last few years – SWR has not only remained on-air 24/7 but provided up to the minute and direct coverage of bushfires, floods and Covid restrictions for affected residents of Western Sydney
They’ve also been in constant contact with local government and emergency service organisations as well as many major support and relief agencies providing information and help to those in need and providing them a voice to the community.
So it’s no surprise SWR 99.9 FM were the proud recipients of the Community Broadcasting Association of Australia’s ‘Excellence in Community Engagement’ Award in 2021.
"It’s such a privilege for us to be a valued member and serve Western Sydney’ said Busco ‘plus we’re out and about having a ball at local festivals and other events whenever we get a chance," Wayne said.
SWR has embarked on a major studio renovation – due to be completed first half of this year – which saw volunteers broadcasting from a temporary studio or from home.
"We haven’t had a home base for the best part of 3 years’ said Busco ‘but it hasn’t stopped our volunteers from not only keeping the station operational, but growing our listener base to over 200,000 listeners every week," Wayne said.
"They’re a very special bunch - I couldn’t be prouder and and I’d just like to say a huge thank you to all current, past and future volunteers – you make the difference."
And SWR are always on the look out for new volunteers!
For more information about SWR 99.9 FM - www.swr999.com.au
