Radio silence

President speaks out.

Kym Rowley, President of the Douglas FM Committee, echoes the sentiments of those involved with the station, expressing his bewilderment at the DSC's disinterest. He stated, "I'm disappointed by the lack of support from Douglas Shire Council. I sincerely hope it's not politically motivated, but at this point, I have no answers meanwhile opportunities for them to communicate with the community through Douglas FM, whether it's about upcoming events or urgent news seem like common sense." Mr Rowley said. Despite numerous attempts to engage with the DSC, Douglas FM's committee has received little or no response. Mr. Rowley emphasized, "They have a significant opportunity to collaborate with us and convey their messages effectively because remember ultimately, our listeners are their ratepayers who put the Council in its position, so we hope to resolve this issue and will continue to push for their recognition."

Mayor responds.

In response to these concerns, Mayor Michael Kerr shared his perspective. He clarified that he could only speak for himself as a Port Douglas Councillor and not on behalf of the entire Council. Mayor Kerr expressed his support for the radio station, acknowledging its contributions to the community. He also recognized the need for the Council to provide support, like they do for other nonprofit organizations. However, he outlined the Council's current approach, stating, “I absolutely love your radio station and I’ve supported you from day one, but Council looked at our local advertisers and we weren’t getting anywhere so we went to the free Cairns newspaper where we have a four page lift out and that’s working for Council” he said. I reminded Mr Kerr that we should be ‘Doing it in Douglas’ and not spending their money in Cairns and he responded with “We can do it in Douglas but then the Douglas people don’t hear it, you’ve got many people in Mossman who are not on the internet, and Council have to spend ratepayer money effectively and efficiently” he said. 

Committee disagrees. 

That lack of people on the internet argument in the Committee’s opinion doesn’t hold water. We after all live in a digital world where most people in our Shire have a phone, so that means they’re on the internet, and let’s face if there’s an urgent message Council need to get out to the rate payers for example a ferry breakdown or it’s servicing information it needs to go out fast. A four page lift out in the once-a-week free rag isn’t going to cut it. The committee believes that if the community knew they could receive vital Council information quickly on the local radio, they would tune in. The committee remains steadfast in their belief that broadcasting Council news and urgent information through Douglas FM would effectively reach the community. They argue that it’s the DSC's responsibility to support the station's sustainability. Currently there are many small businesses in the shire punching above their weight in sponsoring the station despite their financial constraints. The committee is most grateful for their unwavering support, but it shouldn’t fall solely on their shoulders.

Welcome support

Despite these challenges, it should be pointed out that Michael Kerr and Federal MP Warren Entsch have been staunch supporters of the radio station since its inception. They attended the station's opening last October and continue to offer their support. Councillor Peter McKeown further demonstrates his commitment by sponsoring the radio station through his business, Temptations Café in Mossman. Local businessman John Morris, who is the radio stations landlord is also a big supporter through reduced rent for our studios at the Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina in Port Douglas. Michael Kerr, drawing from his experience at the Clink Theatre in Port Douglas says he understands the importance of effective communication within the Shire and hopes to encourage the Council to consider supporting the station, possibly through grant opportunities in the future. 

The last word.

In conclusion, Douglas FM Committee President Kym Rowley remains optimistic about the station's future and urges all ratepayers to contact the Council and request greater involvement and support. He emphasized that while our valued sponsors currently keep the station on the air, the responsibility should be shared, and the Council has a unique opportunity to engage with the community. Mr Rowley stated, "It would be a great loss if the station had to close but Council can join us in a partnership because it's a perfect match for both parties, so we eagerly anticipate working together positively to achieve this goal” he said.