Margaret River station looks to FM future

Fans, supporters, corporate partners and community members gathered at The River to celebrate the fourth birthday of local community radio station, Radio Margaret River (RMR).

As well as toasting the station’s growing team of volunteers, the event also saw the RMR board announce the station had been successful in its goal to obtain an FM broadcasting licence.

RMR Chair Pauline McLeod expressed gratitude to partners, members, and subscribers for their steadfast support, as the station capped off eight months of hard work to secure the licence.

The news will see RMR’s reach across the region expand, allowing listeners to tune in from Busselton to Dunsborough and Margaret River to Hamelin Bay at 101.9FM.

Station Manager Richard Lee Pullen praised volunteers for transforming RMR from a concept, into a thriving community hub.

“From our humble beginnings to the dynamic team we have today, it is the collective dedication of our volunteers that has brought us to this milestone,” he said.

“We view our progress as reaching base camp on Mount Everest.

“Our ascent is just beginning, and we are excited for the journey ahead.”

The RMR board said it expected the FM licence would “significantly enhance access to local voices, events, and issues, benefiting the region’s vibrant arts scene, surfing culture, community groups, winemaking, farming, and conservation efforts.

“Both residents and visitors will stay connected to local happenings through RMR’s expanded coverage.”

Station tech Ian Hill also discussed upcoming technical upgrades, which will include the relocation of the RMR studios to the Margaret River Mens Shed. It is expected that the relocation will be completed and FM broadcasting underway by early 2025.

Mrs McLeod said the transition was a “monumental step forward” for the station.

“Our team eagerly anticipates the new possibilities and enhanced connections that this FM platform will bring,” she said.

“The shift to FM broadcasting is more than a technical upgrade; it is a transformative opportunity,” Mr Lee-Pullen added.