“I’m not done yet.” Wayne McClean departs Perth’s 96FM after nearly 24 years

This week marked the end of an era at Perth’s 96FM, with Music Director Wayne McClean saying goodbye after almost 24 years at the ARN station, his position made redundant.

McClean – who also filled in on-air from time to time – said “I’m not bitter about how things have turned out, as the decision wasn’t mine and it’s rare to be in a content role at one radio station for this long, so I feel lucky.”

McClean says radio now is very different to when he first started out.

“It was a real privilege to work at an iconic station like 96FM for so many years.”

“I feel so grateful for the time I’ve spent at 169 Hay Street,” he said. “Yes, it’s had its ups and downs along the way but most of all it was fun and i worked with some truly amazing people.”

“They know who they are.”

“The real highlight was in 2012 when we changed the format to ‘Keeping Real Music Alive’ with an amazing team of people headed by the late Brad McNally.”

“All the hard work paid off to be #1 for the first time since 1992 and knock Mix945 off the top spot in the Perth radio ratings and then again in 2020 with the 40th year celebration.”

“40 years over 40 days was an amazing time. Then another #1.”

Another standout moment was winning the ACRA for Best Music Director in 2013.

But, as McClean points out, there’s more to radio life than topping the ratings.

“It’s not just about the #1s, it was the people that made it a #1 place to work.”

Hold the line, though. While it might be the end of an era, McClean says radio is in his blood and he’s looking forward to the next tour of duty.

“I’m not done yet.”