Douglas FM November air date
Replaces FAB FM
Community Radio Station Douglas FM is hoping to be on air by early November this year, replacing country music station FAB FM.
The station, which has the frequency 101.5, will purchase FAB FM’s equipment and use the same space at the Bally Hooley Railway Station in Port Douglas to broadcast to the Shire.
As owners of FAB FM my wife Marion and myself fully support the community radio concept so we agreed to the changeover at cost, thus giving the station every chance of success. While it’s sad in one way because of the hard work we’ve both put in to establish FAB FM, we realise this is a positive move for the community.
Mr Rowley now hopes that individuals, organisations and local businesses will help them raise funds to keep the station on the air and make it one of the best community broadcasters in the nation. The Douglas FM President went on to say, “we’ll also be seeking volunteers to be on air with a variety of music genres”.
Get on board
Mr Rowley is keen to get the Mossman High School years 10 to 12 involved and the indigenous community to have a presence on air as well “there’s stories to be told and Douglas FM is the perfect vehicle for that” he said. Volunteer announcers will be fully trained which could lead to careers being forged elsewhere in the industry. Mr Rowley said it’s most important the radio station reflect the interests of the entire Douglas Shire “this is a community radio station therefore it’s for the community as a whole and not for individuals or groups to push one agenda, political or otherwise” he said.
Mr Rowley and Secretary Kerrie Jamieson attended a recent meeting with Douglas Shire Councillors. Mr Rowley said it’s hoped the Council, which should benefit from getting its message out via the community station, will come on board soon to assist the fledgling station.
According to the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) the goals of community broadcasters are to promote a diverse range of broadcasting for the public, develop and reflect the Australian identity, character and cultural diversity and provide local content