“A magnificent leader and mentor”: Brian Blacklock to retire after 45 years in radio

Brian Blacklock. Image: LinkedIn

After an incredible 45 years in the radio biz, this week marks the end of an era for Brian Blacklock.

The Senior Business Manager at Tapt Media – affectionately known among his radio colleagues as ‘Blackers’ – will officially retire on Friday.

Brian began his radio career at Goulburn’s 2GN back in 1981.

He was later appointed General Sales Manager at Sydney’s 2SM, then spent 15 years working in senior sales positions at ARN.

As Brian notes, when he started at 2SM in September 1993, monthly revenue was approximately $500k per month.

By May 1995, it had doubled and by 1999 WSFM was the #1 direct billing FM station in the world.

That year, Brian was flown to Atlanta as the only foreign finalist in the US Radio Ink Magazine Sales Manager of the Year Awards.

Of his retirement from radio, Brian said on LinkedIn: “Considering the role previous to my first radio gig was shovelling wheat, this industry has provided wonderful opportunities, giving me and my family a very good life. To all those I’ve worked for, worked with and was honoured to mentor, thank you for everything, I am indeed truly blessed.”

News of his retirement prompted a flood of congratulatory messages, including from Dubai-based Australian radio host Kris Fade, former ARN Chief Content Officer Duncan Campbell, Super Radio Network CEO Graham Mott and Brian’s proud family, including sons Aaron and Sam.

“I will always be in awe at how present you were for Mum, my brothers and I,” said Sam. “You always showed up, did whatever needed to be done and saw every commitment through to the end. Happy retirement!”