Nova’s Laurie Webster downs tools

L-R: Simon Kim, Mitch Couchman, Matt Steadman, Laurie Webster, Des Anthonisz, Tom Sedlacek

NOVA Entertainment is farewelling a much-loved team member with assistant technology manager Laurie Webster calling it a day after more than 20 years with the broadcaster.

His radio journey began in 1998 when he joined 2AY Albury as a broadcast engineer.

“When I applied for the Albury job, I wasn’t sure how I would go in commercial radio having just come out of Telstra broadcasting after 26 years,” he tells Radio Today.

“But I had a blast, especially building the hubs for DMG Radio in Townsville and Albury, then the Novas in Sydney and Perth. They were quite exciting times.”

“My time in Melbourne started with the building of the Smooth studios (at the time called Vega). The format didn’t live up to expectations, but it’s great to see Smooth doing so well now.”

NOVA Entertainment head of technology Matt Steadman says Laurie has played a big role with the on-air success of both brands.

“It would be impossible to count how many support calls, studio faults, outside broadcasts, generator tests and interstate interviews Loz has managed over the years.”

“Keeping radio stations on the air is a constant juggling act with hundreds of pieces of equipment, and over the years, Laurie has become one of the most proficient jugglers in the industry!”

“We wish him the very best as he moves into retirement, spending more time with wife Sam and his daughter Ellen.”

As a parting gift, ‘Chrissy, Sam and Browny’ this morning helped Laurie realise his on-air ‘dream’ and allowed him to take a turn behind the microphone.

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