Broadcasting across the airwaves from Seaview Road in Victor Harbor, Fleurieu FM has been on locals’ stereos since 1992.
Starting as 5EFM, the radio for Encounter Bay and surrounding regions, it now reaches as far as Strathalbyn and internationally on its web stream.
Jim Bickers, a presenter and technical hand at Fleurieu FM since 2013, reinforced the importance of community radio in local regions such as the Fleurieu.
“We communicate with local news and events that we put on through the course of our programs,” Jim said.
“There is also national news on the hour.”
Jim enjoys the freedom being on community radio gives him compared to a commercial radio presenting opportunity.
“We have the freedom to use our own records, our own CDs,” Jim said.
Fleurieu FM broadcasts on the FM band across the Fleurieu with 89.3 the frequency for Goolwa to Encounter Bay and 94.7 in Strathalbyn and Yankalilla.
The station also live streams from its website, www.fleurieufm.org.au, where listeners can find information on weekly programs and the diverse range of music they offer.
Fleurieu FM is supported by funding from sponsors and listener subscriptions.
The roles available at Fleurieu FM range from on-air presenter to admin, and more.
In order to maintain the high-definition broadcast Fleurieu FM transmits, it requires the best quality gear, which can be costly.
“We do get government funding on application for a grant,” Jim said.
“It [funding] is getting tight here”.
Local businesses can give on-air sponsorship to Fleurieu FM, which is one way of supporting the community radio station while also benefitting themselves.
Donations are helpful and can be made through a subscription on the station’s website, www.fleurieufm.org.au
