Geoff Helisma |

Besides broadcasting music, the Lower Clarence’s community radio station, TLC-FM 100.3, has a greater goal, “to balance the work of running a licensed community radio station with having a bit of fun”.

It seems that each of these objectives is being achieved, too.

The station was a finalist in two categories at the recent Community Broadcasting Association of Australia gala dinner, held on Gold Coast on November 10, for its “contribution to Australian Music” and “excellence in community engagement”.

On the engagement front, the station is wrapping up a program funded by the Matana Foundation, a philanthropic foundation that focuses on improving the welfare and wellbeing of young people.

“We engaged 10 or more participants, all of whom got a taste of radio broadcasting and developed some presentation skills and confidence with public speaking,” the station’s president, Peter Finucan, said.

“Some are still being trained and three or four are proceeding to become presenters on TLC.

“It also gave us some insight into young people’s perspective of the radio station, in a changing world, technologically, and the way people think.

“It has the potential to take us in a new direction; and the project helps lift our profile in the community and connect with the families of those young people.

“We will be keen to continue the project in 2019 and engage interested young people in community radio.”

Northern Rivers Community Foundation and Community Building Partnerships Program grants have also contributed towards upgrades at the station, including new air-conditioning, which Mr Finucan quipped, “will please all the summer presenters”.

To continue its work in the community, the radio station also relies on subscribers and sponsors.

People interested in those aspects (or anyone interested in joining the station) can contact TLC-FM 100.3 through its Facebook page, email info@tlcfm.com.au, or phone: 6646 1100.