VOLUNTEER organisations are the backbone of regional communities.
For community radio station Nambucca Valley Radio 2NVR, a $3531 Federal Government grant will ensure it continues delivering its valuable service to local listeners.
Member for Cowper, Pat Conaghan visited 2NVR’s Tewinga studios last week to announce the station’s successful Volunteer Grants Program 2025–2026 application, and to meet some of the dedicated volunteers who keep the station on the air.
He emphasised the important contribution of community radio, particularly in regional areas where social connection and access to accurate local information can be vital.
“I was fortunate enough to have a say in the awarding of this particular grant,” Mr Conaghan told News Of The Area.
“2NVR is an organisation that gives back to the community, be it keeping locals informed during emergencies or keeping them entertained.
“It’s particularly important to people who are unable to venture out of their home due to disability or illness.”
Broadcasting around the clock, 2NVR provides a diverse mix of music, news, sport, interviews, entertainment and locally focused programming.
Run entirely by volunteers, the station gives a voice to the Nambucca Valley community, promoting local artists, community organisations, events and issues that matter to residents.
Its commitment to providing timely, locally relevant information is particularly important during emergencies and natural disasters, when residents rely on trusted sources for local updates.
Mr Conaghan said the contribution made by volunteers to Australia couldn’t be underestimated.
“Regardless of the side of politics you are on, the importance of the contribution is well understood,” he said.
“The nation would be in trouble without them.”
He highlighted the station’s strong connection with the local community.
The grant will provide practical assistance in maintaining the station’s ability to broadcast from community events across the district.
2NVR management committee president Donna Collins and committee member Paul Burns said outside broadcasts were an important element in the station’s connection with listeners.
“The station regularly broadcasts from sporting events, markets, fundraisers and other community gatherings to bring local activities and celebrations to listeners who are unable to attend,” Ms Collins told NOTA.
“The funds will support the purchase of a new computer required to maintain this capability.”
While community radio relies heavily on the generosity and commitment of volunteers, keeping a station operating also involves considerable ongoing expenses.
Equipment maintenance, broadcasting technology and licensing requirements all place financial demands on not-for-profit stations, making external funding opportunities particularly valuable.
“Most people don’t realise that it’s costly to keep a community radio station on the air,” Paul Burns said.
“Grants like this are vital.
“It represents more than a new piece of equipment; it supports the work of the volunteers who give their time to keeping the Nambucca Valley informed, entertained and connected.”
By Mick BIRTLES
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