The local community has generously donated $173,000 to community radio station Curtin FM during its annual Radiothon – the highest amount raised in the station’s 44 year history.
A total of 2,595 donations were received, with all funds going back into running the station including the maintenance of the station’s news service, copyright fees, music software, database maintenance, studio equipment, transmission fees, technical production and programming costs.
Curtin FM Station Manager Mr Quinn Glasson thanked the community for its generous support during these difficult times.
“Curtin FM has continued to broadcast live from the studios day after day, knowing that staying on air would help in keeping some level of normality in our listeners’ lives during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Mr Glasson said.
“We have had wonderful engagement with our listeners through this period, as they have told us how important the station has been to them as many other activities have had to stop.
“We are very grateful for the donations we have received, especially during a time of financial uncertainty and hardship. Raising a record amount in 2020 is testament to the loyalty of the Curtin FM listeners and the local community.”
Curtin University Vice-President of Corporate Relations, Ms Valerie Raubenheimer, said the COVID-19 pandemic had meant 2020 was a challenging year for many, and Curtin FM had seen a drop in sponsorship income.
“As a self-funded radio station, Curtin FM relies on the donations and sponsorships to fund its ongoing operational costs,” Ms Raubenheimer said.
“Raising a record amount of $173,000 during a difficult year is an outstanding result for the station and is testament to the hard work of its volunteers and the dedication of its loyal supporters and listeners.”
Curtin FM is Western Australia’s largest community radio station with more than 255,000 weekly listeners.
Based at Curtin University’s Perth Campus, Curtin FM is a not-for-profit enterprise, completely funded by community support and sponsorships.
For more information about Curtin FM, visit here.
