A ground-breaking study has identified community radio and TV stations as hugely significant to the vitality of local communities.

In the largest project of its kind, researchers from Griffith University have spent two years interviewing audiences across the country and the resulting report – Community Media Matters – found that people believed these stations offered diversity and intimacy, as well as being a welcome escape from the predictability of mainstream media.

Lismore’s own community radio station, 2NCR FM, is NSW’s oldest regional radio station, yet after 30 years on air it still receives no government funding and struggles to survive.

Earlier this month the station was dealt a heavy blow when Southern Cross University refused to renew its lease at the Lismore campus. The station is now looking for premises downtown, but with a financial situation that’s anything but rosy, it’s make or break time for 2NCR.

“Like all community organisations it’s struggling financially – it’s run by volunteers and needs local support to stay on air,” said 2NCR presenter, Vanessa Ekins. “We need people to tune in, become a member, provide sponsorship, come along to our trivia night this weekend or get involved in the production and hosting of radio shows. It’s actually an amazing opportunity to be able to broadcast your own music and views without having to pander to commercial interests.”

Committee member Mike King says they have no intention of closing down, but unless people come forward with sponsorship, there’s a danger funds could run dry.

“The move is putting extra pressure on us and it’s eating into resources that would normally be paying the rent and the bills,” Mike said. “Tearing down the radio station and building a new studio, including sound proofing it and everything else that entails, all costs money. “We’re not looking for money for nothing – we’re offering businesses the chance to promote themselves and help keep alive a vibrant part of the community that gives voice to those who wouldn’t otherwise have one. We’re very positive and we think the move is the best thing that could have happened – it will raise our profile and put us back into the heart of the community. The point is it’s everybody’s radio station – so use it.”

2NCR broadcasts 70 shows each week, the content covering a phenomenal range of cultures and musical styles.

From metal and punk late at night to afternoon jazz and early morning country music, the Goori Jama program with Indigenous news and views and Deadly Sounds hosted by Rhoda Roberts, 2NCR provides a platform for people of all persuasions to have their say. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg – there’s also Japanese, Italian, Greek, French and Filipino shows, a jukebox jamboree, an astrology round-up and much more to keep listeners engaged and amused.

There are myriad ways to support 2NCR in its hour of need. To offer sponsorship, become a member or discuss hosting your own show, phone the station on 6620 3929 – or simply tune in to 92.9 and have a listen.

Alternatively, go along to the 2NCR trivia night this Saturday, September 1. It’s on at the East Lismore Bowling Club from 7pm. Entry is $10.