A very special bunch: SWR 99.9 FM pays tribute to its volunteers

This week, Western Sydney’s SWR 99.9 FM paid tribute to those who give their time to keep the station ticking over, to coincide with International Volunteers Day.

The community station celebrates 30 years of serving Western Sydney in 2022, an achievement built on the back of thousands of volunteers donating hundreds of thousands of hours.

“Strong community radio makes for strong communities,” says Wayne ‘Busco’ Buscombe, Breakfast Show host of 14 years and Station Manager.

“Actually, I stole that from Michelle Rowland, our current Federal Minister for Communications who popped in for a chat and play some tunes the other week.”

“But it’s fantastic to have someone like Minister Rowland, who is not only a proud ‘Westie’ but a passionate supporter of community radio, recognising our contribution to the media landscape.”

During the unprecedented events of the last few years – SWR has not only remained on-air 24/7 but provided up to the minute and direct coverage of bushfires, floods and Covid restrictions for affected residents of Western Sydney.

It’s also been in constant contact with local government and emergency service organisations as well as many major support and relief agencies, providing information and help to those in need and providing them a voice to the community.

So it’s no surprise SWR 99.9 FM was the proud recipient of the Community Broadcasting Association of Australia’s ‘Excellence in Community Engagement’ Award in 2021.

“It’s such a privilege for us to be a valued member and serve Western Sydney,” says Busco. “Plus, we’re out and about having a ball at local festivals and other events whenever we get a chance.”

Just as restrictions lifted in early 2022, SWR embarked on a major studio renovation – due to be completed early 2023 – which saw volunteers broadcasting from a temporary studio or from home.

“We haven’t had a ‘home base’ for the best part of 3 years,” says Busco “but it hasn’t stopped our volunteers from not only keeping the station operational, but growing our listener base to over 200,000 listeners every week.”

“They’re a very special bunch – I couldn’t be prouder and I’d just like to say a huge thank you to all current, past and future volunteers – you make the difference.”

SWR is always on the lookout for new volunteers. More info here.