ACE Radio Network farewells a legend as Peter Headen calls time on his career

The ACE Radio Network is preparing to say a sad goodbye one of its longest serving General Managers, with 3YB FM and COAST FM’s Peter Headen to call time on his esteemed career at the end of June.

After starting his radio career in Horsham in 1984, ‘Heado’ began his journey on Victoria’s Great South Coast in October 1996.

Nearly three decades later, he leaves a lasting legacy on ACE Radio’s Warrnambool operations.

Peter oversaw major innovations during his tenure, including the launch of COAST FM in 2002 and 3YB FM’s switch from AM to FM in 2018, but critically ensured the radio station prioritised community.

His efforts to support large-scale community projects, not-for-profits, sporting clubs and causes often saw credit deflected to the radio stations, a humility that saw him named Warrnambool’s Citizen of the Year in 2013.

“I think the radio station has to play that role of being the connection between the community,” Peter says.

“Whether it’s schools or kinders or fundraising events, we can play a role to inform the community. I’d like to think we’ve done that pretty well.”

As for retirement, Peter says while it’s tough to leave a workplace he loves, he looks forward to spending more time with his family.

“I’ve enjoyed the role for many years, loved coming to work and loved the staff here, but you’ve gotta go sometime, hopefully I can get some good years with my wife and family.”

“My wife Philo has been a big supporter, without her I wouldn’t be able to do what I did, I was away a lot and she’s just been fantastic from my point of view and held the family together”.

ACE Radio CEO Mark Taylor is among those to congratulate Peter on his decorated career.

“Peter has displayed exemplary leadership, driving continual growth and success in cementing the Warrnambool operation as the highest-performing in the ACE network.”

“I congratulate Peter on an extraordinary career and thank him for his contribution across the last three decades, not only to the ACE Radio Network, but the industry in general.”

Network owners Rowly and Judy Paterson said the legacy left by Peter will be long lasting.

“As Peter retires, we congratulate him on an extraordinary career and thank him for his invaluable contributions to the ACE Radio Network,”

“His dedication and passion for the radio industry have been amazing, Peter has been instrumental in creating pathways for many young people and emerging talent.”

With Peter’s retirement, ACE Radio officially welcomes Michael Duncan as the new General Manager of 3YB FM & COAST FM, who brings decades of experience across the radio and media industry.