The Albanese Government’s Community Broadcasting Program supports local stations in handling funding challenges, tech changes, and the occasional mischievous cockatoo.
When Far North Queensland community radio station Douglas FM found themselves with damaged cabling and antennae courtesy of a curious cocky chewing away, they knew they had to act quickly to stay on the air.
Douglas FM received a Quick Response Grant through the Community Broadcasting Program – securing $12,000 to repair the damage and keep the cockatoos at bay.
“In a community used to dealing with cyclones, heatwaves and floods, I doubt the volunteers at Douglas FM expected it could be a cheeky cockatoo that became their undoing,” said Minister for Communications, Anika Wells.
“Thanks to the quick work of the Community Broadcasting Foundation, supported by funding from the Albanese Government, Douglas FM got the support they needed to keep the cockies at bay and the information flowing to their communities.”
In addition to regular grant rounds, Quick Response Grants are available to support community media organisations experiencing unexpected issues.
“Community radio stations are woven into the fabric of regional Australia, transmitting local, trusted voices to the communities they love and are a vital part of,” added Member for Leichhardt Matt Smith.
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“I’m proud that through the Community Broadcasting Program our Government is able to recognise the value of community broadcasters and provide them the tools to do their jobs best – and, in this case, help them to fend off any feathered offenders.”
The Community Broadcasting Foundation is receiving $85.7 million in funding to deliver the Community Broadcasting Program over the next 3 years from 2025-26.
“Community broadcasting is an essential source of trusted, local information in communities like Port Douglas,” commented Community Broadcasting Foundation CEO Jo Curtin.
“That’s why it’s important we keep stations on air when the unexpected happens. Quick Response Grants are one example of how support from the Federal Government keeps communities connected and informed.”
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