Q & A

How long have you been with RTRFM?

In the ’60s I was a part time regional newsreader and relief rural breakfast session presenter with ABC radio in Bunbury.

RTR began in1977 as 6UWA FM and shortly afterwards I became involved in presenting and producing programs for the print handicapped, broadcast on weekdays from 10am – noon.

How did you become involved with your program?

Nostalgia had been started by Pieta O’Shaughnessy, a former station manager, and in 1986 I stepped in to fill a vacancy and have been presenting ever since.

What do you enjoy most about presenting?

Over the years the Nostalgia presenters have built up an amazing rapport with our listeners. The constant telephone feedback from our loyal audience has encouraged us to refine the selection of music we play. There is a challenge to find new and rare recordings and great satisfaction when our efforts are acknowledged by the listeners.

Strangest experience at RTRFM?

Just before we moved to the Sanders Building at UWA I was presenting the program in the original studios in the University Extension Service building when an earthmoving compactor started up just outside causing the building, turntables and presenter to vibrate profusely. An hour later we transferred to a temporary studio in an old house on Fairway.

Favourite RTRFM program/s?

Our listeners are indeed fortunate in the wide range of specialised music and talks programs. All shows are characterised by presenters who are passionate about the music and sharing their collections with the audience. The station has developed a warm, relaxed presentation style with lashings of good humour.

Apart from Nostalgia my favourites would include Saturday Jazz and SMCD.

What do you do in real life?

After recently retiring from a teaching career I am now enjoying the luxury of plenty of time to prepare programs, seeking out new CDs and helping out as a volunteer in the RTR office and CD library.