After 11 years of Bucketts Radio operating as a community station providing local news, views and what's on within the region, it has announced its pending closure.
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Over the past 12 months, costs of running the radio station have escalated more than the CPI and the insurance has increased 70 per cent, despite no claims. With the continuing dry in the Gloucester region, businesses have had to tighten their belts, and now with COVID-19 and self-isolation for many of the station's volunteers, it became necessary to consider closing the station.
Since announcing the closure last week, people have come forward to request that station stay open. It is not possible without further funds. At this time of year, the station usually applies for the next 12 month licence (the current licence expires on May 30). Fees for Community Broadcasting Association, copyright and other government bodies and insurance all fall due around the turn of the financial year and the ongoing rental for the studio in the Majestic Arcade is the station's largest single expense.
The community station was started by Shayne and Calida Holstien, as radio has always been a passion of Shayne's. While working full time outside the station, he spent his weekends raising sponsorship and broadcasting on the airwaves.
It's operated entirely by volunteers who host their own programs playing music from all genres. The station not only provides a sense of belonging to the volunteers, who come from all walks of life and range in age from youth to pensioners. It provides training for high school students, it helps to rebuild confidence in those who've lost their jobs and provides a great sense of place for those supported by the NDIS.
The radio relies solely on sponsorship and membership to cover the studio's running costs, with no government support. Sponsorship rates have not increased since the station started broadcasting in 2009 to ensure that it's affordable. To cover the costs for the next 12 months requires $10,000.
To grow the listening audience, increase sponsorship reach and volunteer base, grants have been applied for to move the antennae to a higher spot to increase the broadcast reach four-fold to link the communities of Stroud, Wards River, Stratford and the wider rural area. The cost is $40,000. There has been some success for partial amounts but unfortunately the whole amount is needed to complete the job.
It was with heavy heart the decision to close was made.
If the community wishes to see the radio station continue then action is required by April 16. Please call Grahame Holstein on 6558 9196 if you can assist or with ideas for the future.
