97.1 Sweet FM, Rocking On

Sweet FM first began broadcasting back on 28th September, 1999. Charlie Scuderi, station manager, has been involved with the radio since its inception in 1999 and has been managing it for the last six years. Their studio is based in the old Home Hill Court House building, on Eighth Avenue, Home Hill.

“I was involved just after the formation of the radio station back in 1999, where I stayed for about 18 months. I then got invited back June in 2018 as there had been some issues at the radio station. Merle, who a lovely lady, had been running the radio but had some health issues, and unfortunately, she couldn't come back to the radio.”

“The radio was running in limbo as a result, so a meeting was called. We formed a new committee to keep Sweet FM going. I'm still here years later,” Charlie grins.

The radio station has become very high-tech during his tenure. One of Charlie’s major achievements is purchasing a van for the radio station, which is used frequently for outside broadcasts as it’s equipped with all the necessary gear for live recordings.

Presenters also no longer use CDs or turntables; instead, they stream music from USB sticks. The new, digital play-out program allows presenters to see the name of the artist and song on screen, eliminating the need for physical CDs.

“Prior to the current set-up we've got, presenters used to turn up with CDs and invariably, CDs present their own problems. You want to play track two on this CD, then track three on another CD, and track 12 on another CD. You always had to have the sleeve handy and go, ‘What's the name of the song I want, which track is it?’ So we changed to a computer based player program, where the presenters simply bring songs in on a USB. The tracks appear on screen and you just drag the songs into the order you want and instantly, you've got the name of the artist and the song. No surprises!”

The station is manned by a dedicated band of volunteers with each volunteer choosing the music they wish to play. Long-serving presenters include Brian Carnes (who’s been there since day one), Tony Goddard (20+ years), Chris Nissen (15+ years), and Carol Betteridge (10+ years).

The station operates under a narrowcast license and relies on advertising for revenue to stay afloat as it does not fall under the community station category. As a service to the community, however, the station can broadcast messages for other non-profit organisations and groups free of charge.

During cyclones and floods, they kept listeners up to date with the latest news as it came to hand. 97.1 Sweet FM, remains an important part of the Burdekin district's social and cultural life, broadcasting easy listening music, news, and varied mix of programmes, along with forums for discussing local and regional issues.

Sweet FM is always open to new presenters, especially as two current presenters may not return due to personal and health issues. They will have an open day on the 5th of April to celebrate 25 years on air, to attract new members and presenters.

“The 25th anniversary celebration will include an open house during the day, with market stalls on the lawn and tours of the radio station for people to see how a radio station operates. Former presenters, guests, and the public are all welcome to attend,” Charlie smiles.

If you’re interested in becoming a presenter for Sweet FM, contact Charlie on: (07) 4782-8394 or email: admin@sweetfm.com.au.

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Sweet FM Station Manager, Charlie Scuderi behind the mic. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen

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