2SER

2SER (Sydney Educational Radio) is a community radio station in Sydney, Australia, broadcasting on the frequency 107.3 FM. The station had its origins in the burgeoning community broadcasting movement of the early 1970s when it was proposed that an educational station, based on a consortium of Sydney universities, be established. The station has been been broadcasting since October 1, 1979.

Today, the station operates as a company limited by guarantee and is jointly owned by Macquarie University and the University of Technology, Sydney. Both institutions contribute an annual grant to 2SER, however the station is largely self-supporting, relying upon revenue raised through programming, sponsorship, fund-raising events and membership.

In late 2004, the station was faced with a projected budget shortfall of up to $100,000 that financial year. Management addressed the situation by reducing the number of paid stuff, and put forward proposals to scale down the use of its studio at Macquarie University, and cater for a slightly older audience – which were meet with frustation from some volunteers.

One of the key reasons for volunteer and staff anger was the attitude of the Manager Philip Shine. He said from the outset that his planned changes were non-negotiable. He was later forced by internal activism to soften his policy, although very slightly. Volunteer meetings even considered lodging a complaint with the Australin Broadcasting Authority. Under the Broadcasting Services Act volunteers at community stations must be consulted and involved in decision making.

A relaunch of the station, with a new format, is planned for early 2005.

References

• Javes, Sue (Dec. 8, 2004). Money matters: 2SER relaunch plans. Sydney Morning Herald.

• Gaywaves ceases broadcasting: Green Left Weekly

http://www.greenleft.org.au/back/2005/626/626p4d.htm

External links

• 2SER 107.3FM official website