Newcastle’s 1629AM sells its 400th narrow-cast radio

In 2015 Newcastle’s Radio1629AM encountered a problem. The narrow-cast station failed to reach many radios which do not have the capability to tune past 1602AM.

The station, which broadcasts from Cooks Hill, therefore decided to start selling their own radios that would tune to 1629AM.

Now, after two and a half years, the station has hit a milestone – selling its 400th radio to a listener named Keith.

Announcer Cecily Waters, who has been in the industry for 35 years including a stink at 3AK Melbourne, sold the radio and says broadcasting is an exciting career.

“I like broadcasting live, as it lets people know I’m human,” she said.

Keith and his wife Donna were surprised and delighted when they received the radio along with a certificate for being the 400th person to purchase one.

Radio 1629AM is run by 22 on-air volunteer broadcasters, running the slogan “Unforgettable Music” and also streams online with listeners around the world.

The funds from selling the radios has proved and important source of funds to keep the station on the air.