Wondering where the voice of the Blue Mountains comes from? Right here, in Katoomba, stands Radio Blue Mountains. This is not just a radio station. It is a community hub broadcasting on 89.1 FM.
Radio Blue Mountains began its journey in 1985. The Blue Mountains Public Broadcasting Society Inc. was inaugurated in Leura. The society was listed on the Australian Business Register on August 25, 1985.
Early broadcasts were quite experimental. They occurred for one week, four times a year until 1993. The transmission setup was unique. It was located in a condemned house in Leura provided by the Blue Mountains City Council. The council claimed it in lieu of rates. This abandoned house became the first home for Radio Blue Mountains. The house was later demolished.
Interest in the station grew during those test broadcasts. In June 1992, a major milestone was achieved. The Australian Broadcasting Tribunal granted a full-time community broadcasting license.
Two studios were constructed in a former ambulance service station. Technical students from the Technical Education College built them. The station was located at 7 Gang Gang St, Katoomba. Funding came from the Blue Mountains City Council.
Radio Blue Mountains then moved to the Nepean Community College. The society had a peppercorn rent there. The station broadcast continually from this location until October 25, 2016. Then it moved to new studios in Parke St. Broadcasting recommenced on October 28.
The first official public broadcast occurred on January 8, 1993. It was a significant moment for the community. In 1994, Radio Blue Mountains expanded its reach. It purchased a satellite dish. This allowed the station to broadcast 24 hours a day through the CBAA Community Radio Network programme feed. The Society celebrated its 21st anniversary in 2007.
Radio Blue Mountains embraced the internet in August 2008. The station obtained a license to broadcast online. Internet streaming systems were implemented.
In early 2016, the station faced another challenge. The state-owned government building that housed the station since 1993 was to be sold. A new lease was negotiated with TAFE executives. The partial office move commenced in May 2016. The studios followed in late October that year.
Radio Blue Mountains offers diverse programming. It suits the needs of the Blue Mountains community. The programming includes shows for people with disabilities. They also feature local bands. Interviews with people of interest to Blue Mountains residents are a regular feature. Occasional live outside broadcasts add to the variety.
The station’s programs cover a wide range of music styles. These include jazz, country, rock, dance, blues and classical. Coverage of local issues and events is also a priority.
Radio Blue Mountains works closely with all sections of the community. It has a close relationship with the Blue Mountains City Council. This has led to efforts to establish the station as an emergency communicator. The station encourages local musicians. It highlights social and cultural activity in the Upper Blue Mountains. This is achieved through on-air interviews and daily promotion of community events. These events are promoted through its Community Notice Board segments.
Radio Blue Mountains is a not-for-profit. It is an all-volunteer community radio station. It has served the Blue Mountains since 1993. The station is funded through listener support, grants and sponsorship. Radio Blue Mountains is a member of the CBAA Community Radio Network.