On Wednesday 29 April, 18 students and mentors from around the country came together to discuss the impact of the pandemic on the financial stability of their community media organisations.

Online presentations from 8 community media organisations demonstrated the adaptability, resilience and importance of community radio at this time.

WOW FM Penrith NSW, 4WHO Wild Horse FM Yarraman QLD, 2CVC Loving Life Grafton NSW, 3MDR Upwey VIC, 5UV Radio Adelaide SA, 2DRY FM Broken Hill NSW.

 

Our first ever THINK BIG social enterprise program was almost halfway through when social distancing measures transformed our communities.

The program of industry case studies, mentoring, webinars and online learning focuses on strengthening audience support income through membership, sponsorship and community engagement.

“Being part of the program made us realise we’re not alone” – Jane Hodgkinson, Treasurer 4WHO Wild Horse FM Yarraman in regional Queensland.

The course was quickly restructured to provide mentoring and webinar support as participants worked hard to keep their volunteers safe, stations on-air, and communities informed.

Concluding the 12-week program, participants reflected on the challenges, opportunities and learnings from the current situation. The overwhelming positive theme was how community radio stations are increasing engagement and keeping people connected.

The CMTO plan to re-launch the complete THINK BIG program in August.