Latest News

86 YEAR OLD COLLINS TRANSMITTER ON AIR

We had a special broadcast on Saturday morning, to celebrate the actual day Tauranga Village Radio made it's first broadcast. The 86 year old Collins transmitter ran like the proverbial clock.    Transmission commenced at 7.15 am and concluded at 1 pm when we switched back to the Nautel transmitter.

WE ARE 40 YEARS OLD - WOW

At the 40th Birthday Party on Sunday, Kel Raine a past Volunteer of many years cut the cake. A digital book was presented to recently retired Volunteer, Russ Bain of 28 years by Evan Turbott Chairman  

There was loads of Entertainment by our wonderful Volunteers with Ian Diggleman on his piano accordion as he led a singalong   We had a great crowd of Listeners and Volunteers to share the day. Our actual birthday is the 13th April. 

Photos of the Party are on our website under Photo Gallery with more to come!! 

VILLAGE RADIO TURNS 40 !

Meet the villagers - Village Radio

With a dedicated team of over 30 volunteers, Village Radio has cultivated a passionate community of listeners from across New Zealand and beyond. Visitors are invited to explore the museum of vintage radio equipment and immerse themselves in over 20,000 classic records. The station prides itself on its sense of camaraderie and community spirit, fostering connections among listeners and volunteers alike. From Tony R, the retired DJ with 20 years of experience, to Marion, the passionate music lover and gardening enthusiast, Tony H who grew up listening to the post-war era of music, and Ken, the retired rock n roll musician, each volunteer brings their unique passion to the airwaves.

 

 

 

Village radio also take on-air song requests Monday-Friday 8am-5pm. Call them on (07) 571-3710.

 

Streaming 24/7 on www.villageradio.co.nz/online/streaming_live.csn

 

Or listen on 1368AM in Tauranga.

NEW AIRBUS TAURANGA RESCUE HELICOPTER WILL ALMOST FLY ITSELF

SPECIAL STUDIO GUEST ANN TOLLEY

LONG TERM PLAN

BUDDY MIKAERE OUR GUEST

VISITORS FROM BERLIN

During Penny Vaughan's Monday program she hosted temporary Tauranga visitors from Berlin, Rob Morgenstern and his two delightful daughters Rosa and Kitty in Studio One. (See photo with Penny)

The Seekers `Georgie Girl` was requested by the 5 and 3 year olds as it is the favourite song of their Grandmother. Rob was `blown away` by the studios and now wants to bring his father to visit, and maybe attend our 40^th birthday party in April.

ALL IN THE FAMILY

Volunteer Tony Hunt introduced his brother Denis, his wife Da and nephew Adit to the Village Radio Studios.  Da and Adit are from Bangkok but they’ve lived in Wellington for many years. They have now returned to Wellington after Christmas with family in Auckland and Tauranga.  

Ken Wadsworth who was announcing at the time put Da on air, and she was extremely at ease and professional   

Photo Left Tony Hunt, Denis, Adit and Da

HAPPY 2024

The Volunteers at Tauranga Village Radio wish all the Friends of Village Radio (FOVR) and our listeners a Very Happy New Year.  May it bring you health and happiness and lots of music from Village Radio.

ANNOUNCER FROM QUEENSLAND

A delightful visitor on 9^th December from the cruise ship Coral Princess was Ann Hopwell, a radio announcer from Fraser Coast FM 107.5, Hervey Bay, Queensland. 

Fraser Coast FM 107.5 operate similarly to Village Radio by broadcasting 7 days a week thanks to a fabulous team who are all volunteers and they also stream. Day to day operating expenses are funded by community support from ‘Members’ and local ‘Sponsors’. 

Ann’s shows are called “Liquorice Allsorts” on Monday mornings and “Jazz It Up” on Sunday evenings. Ann arrived as Brian Williams (also a jazz presenter) was handing over to Saturday afternoon announcer Lloyd Davy. 

Photo shows Ann Hopwell with Lloyd Davy.

MAYOR JAMES DENYER INTERVIEWED

George Stewart’s Studio Guest last week was the Mayor of the Western Bay of Plenty District Council, James Denyer. He is married to Victoria and has two children. He lives in Katikati, Waihi Beach originally from London. He is a supporter of the Katikati Bypass, having been a member of the bypass action group.
James and his councillors and staff look after a huge expanse of the Western Bay, stretching from Otamarakau to Waihi Beach, an area covering 212,000 hectares....The last census of 2020 it had a mainly rural population, of over 54 thousand.  James and his council are managing with the growing pains of towns, including Omokoroa and Te Puke, and the grid locked roads and highways in his area.

CONCERT MASTER - REBECKA BEETZ

WELCOME TO OUR NEWEST ANNOUNCER

Tauranga Village Radio would llike to welcome Penny Vaughan. Penny has undertgone training and passed with flying colours.   As she has said in her bio for the website "Thanks to my daughter Kate who was a volunteer here on Village Radio I am now loving being part of The Team, bringing all the wonderful music we have at our fingertips into everyones' homes during my show on a Monday".  Kate left Village Radio a few months ago to live in Ireland for a while.

See more about Penny under the Our Volunteers icon.

HOW WOULD YOU COPE IN A DISASTER?

KIND WORDS FROM VISITOR

Neil and Tony had a lovely visitor from Auckland in the studio this morning during their broadcast. Her name was Shirley Barker-Kirby and after she signed the visitors book and gave us a donation she vowed to encourage her family including grandchildren to visit next time they are in Tauranga.  She described Village Radio as an amazingly serendipitous trip down nostalgia lane. She congratulated us on keeping this history alive.

Photo of Volunteer Neil with Shirley in Studio One

SUNLIVE HELPS WITH GETTING VOLUNTEERS

This article was published on SunLive website on 3rd October 2023 by Juan Cortes.  It has been edited to 'fit' onto our website you can see the full article on https://www.sunlive.co.nz/news/328360-volunteers-needed-to-keep-radio-magic-alive.html 

The volunteer is perhaps the most valuable asset of many non-profit organizations. And in the case of the Village Radio, it is these committed and passionate people that keep the magic of Village Radio classic music alive. But they need more volunteers.   

“I listened to the station for quite a while but never saw myself volunteering,” says Penny Vaughan. “Then my daughter make me realize how much I love the station and here I am.” She is now a volunteer announcer, doing something she has discover to be really enjoyable and “super satisfying.” “I love it, it gives you a really good feeling to bring enjoyment to people at home.”  It is the passion of people like Penny that has driven Village Radio since weekly broadcasts began in 2004. The announcers, technicians and support staff at the station are all volunteers from different backgrounds and from all around the world.  The thing that binds them is a love for tunes that no other radios stations play, music from last century, nostalgic music from the 1940s to the 1990s.

It is not easy to survive when you are a non-commercial radio station but our sponsors, the community and all our volunteers have done a great job all these years,” says Village Radio station manager Tony Rhind. Tony also says that the station has made great changes to keep the magic on air, and now to an audience beyond New Zealand.  “I am happy and proud to say that thanks to our sponsors and a group of volunteers who set everything up, we are now transmitting to the world.” The stations AM signal barely covers Tauranga, but with streaming, Village Radio has been receiving feedback messages from listeners in Australia, England, USA and Canada. “That make us really happy”.   

Village Radio will be celebrating its 40th birthday on April 13, 2024. 

If you want to become a volunteer at Village Radio, offer them your financial support, or just tune in, you can find them at  

www.villageradio.co.nz 

GENEROSITY OF A LISTENER

On October the 3rd we received the following e-mail from avid Village Radio listener, Ron Chamberlain, "When times are tough and in Depression-----  Take Village Radio Once A day,-- Then watch your Problems Just Fade Away.--  Below a small Token to Longest Serving Volunteer."

George Stewart presented it to Kel Raine at his home in Carmel Retirement Village, he started with Village Radio in 1986 and retired in 2017.

We have THE best listeners!

REID AND ISAAC TRY THEIR SKILLS AT BROADCASTING

INTERVIEW WITH ANNE TOLLEY

ANNOUNCER JAMES WOOD RETIRES

On Monday (14th) we had a Farewell Function for one of our announcers James (Jim) Wood who had been a Volunteer with us for more than 10 years. Jim is also an gifted guitar player (He became the overall winner at the Golden Guitar Awards 2014 in the 60 category).  With friend Peter Cleaver he has entertained not only at Village Radio parties but at many venues around Tauranga .

We wish him our very best wishes for his 'retirement'.

The photo is Jim receiving a Certificate of Appreciation from Acting Chairperson, Evan Turbott.

FAREWELL TO OUR CHAIRMAN, ERROL HAY

It was with great sadness that Volunteers family and friends farewelled our Chairman Errol Hay to-day. Errol died on the 28th June 2023. He leaves his wife Barbara, two sons and grandchildren and many friends.

He started with Village Radio as a Volunteer on the 9th July 2018. Amongst other things he was instumental in getting our streaming online. He was much respected both as a member of our Village Family and Volunteer and a great friend. We will miss you Errol.

OUR WONDERFUL VOLUNTEERS

The 18th to 24th June is National Volunteer Week. There are approx over 1,008,000 in New Zealand. 11.8% of people undertake informal volunteering work, contributing a total of 7.8 million hours of volunteer labour per year 

At Tauranga Village Radio we have 27 great Volunteers. We broadcast approx 64 hours per week. An average week we need 21 announcers and 4-5 panel operators.  Each announcer does a 3 to 5 hour broadcast but add to that the program preparation time of 2-3 hours.    

The hours being 7 days per week, the only day we do not do a live broadcast is Christmas Day, but a Volunteer does go into the studio so that a pre-recorded playlist can be aired.  

Our broadcast hours :- 

8-00am to 10-00am,  

10-00am to 1-00pm   

1-00pm to 5-00pm   

We also have a librarian, web support, technicians, a Committee of 8, who are made up of the Volunteers, they all work as Volunteers behind the scences.   The satisfaction of all our Volunteers is knowing that they can bring enjoyable, varied, musical programmes and a friendly voice into the homes of our listeners.

OUR RECORD LIBRARY

At Tauranga Village Radio we have one of the largest collections of vinyl records in New Zealand. All the tracks we have are all on our datbase, the announcers are able to collate their programmes from this list as each record has been coded and put into it's appropriate shelf in the library.

We have 28 different categories they are (in alpha order):-

Brass Band,Children, Choir, Christmas, Classical, Country and Western, Dance Band, Documentary, Duets, Hawaiian, Humerous, Instrumental, Jazz, Latin American, Light Orchestral, Light Piano, Maori & Island, Micellaneous, Old Time, Organ, Religious, Scottish/Irish, Singalong, Special Occasion, Stage & Screen, Vocal Female, Vocal Group, Vocal Male.

The section Special Occasions has such tracks as the Lunar Landing in 1969, Churchill's Speeches of World War II, Peter Snell's winning his Olympic Race, Winston McCarthy and many more. As well as the vinyl collection we now have tracks on CD’s and of course on computers/laptops. 

REPAIR CAFE INTERVIEW

Jennie Halliday of Tauranga Repair Cafe was interviewed in our studio on Wednesday 17^th May by Brian Williams.

Repair Cafés are a part of the grassroots movement that aims to reduce waste and overconsumption. It aims to encourage and foster the “do it yourself” spirit and strengthen social connections by bringing different members of the community together. A repair Café is a pop-up event where members of the public bring items to be repaired – for free – instead of throwing them away.

Volunteer Jennie Halliday wanted to get involved with setting up the Tauranga Repair Café because “I grew up with fixers” but most people don’t have access to repairers. Finding out about Repair Cafés solved this – bringing together the know-how and the things otherwise destined for landfill. There’s such a lot of goodwill and even excitement on the day when things get fixed.  Depending on the availability of the volunteers at each Tauranga event, repairs can be made to household items such as bikes, clothing, toys, furniture, jewellery, small electrical appliances, and more. 

Tauranga Repair Cafe is a ‘once a month’ pop-up event between 9.30am and 11.30am on the last Saturday of each month at 148 Durham Street. You can check out the website www.tinkd.nz for booking details etc.  

AEROCOOL RESCUE HELICOPTER INTERVIEW

George Stewart's Studio Guests on Monday 8 May were the crew of the Aerocool Rescue Helicopter, Pilot Liam Brettkelly, and his flight paramedic, Tony Hohepa. 

39TH BIRTHDAY PARTY

Although it was our 39th year of broadcasting birthday on the 13th April we had the party on Sunday 23rd.

It was well attended by both listeners and Volunteers. We had a music quiz set by Ken Wadsworth which made us really think about our music knowledge and Steve Lambie supplied the music for the afternoon.

The photo is of Don who was there at the first broadcast in 1984, cutting one of our birthday cakes with Tony Rhind, Station Manager.

For further photos please visit our Photo Gallery

THE WAHINE SINKING ANNIVERSARY

TURNING POINT TRUST

Photo Tane Cook

WINNERS AT THE EXPO

Graham & Liz of Bethlehem were thrilled to win our listeners prize. A prize pack of ‘goodies’ which was drawn from an entry list of all our listeners who visited the weekends Seniors & Travel Expo at Baypark.

Visitors to the Village Radio stand also signed up to be ‘Friends of Village Radio’ where they can select ten of their favourite tunes to be played on their own exclusive half hour, then they will soon be receiving an invitation to attend Village Radios upcoming birthday celebration party in April.

Photo:- Graham and Liz with their prize pack.

EXPOSURE AT THE EXPO

Village Radio had a stand at the Seniors & Travel Expo, Baypark, Saturday and Sunday. Our Volunteers were kept busy with a constant flow of visitors.

It was a very successful weekend with plenty of interest shown in our station and museum.

The photo shows our Volunteers talking with members of the public. 

IRISH CONNECTIONS - JIM BYRNES

Friday morning (17th March - St Patricks Day) and our Announcer Jim Byrnes in Irish costume played Irish tunes in with his 60's and 70's music.

Jim's Great Grandfather emigrated to New Zealand in the 1850s and later Jim's Mother also emigrated from Tipperary, Ireland in the 1920's, she later became a nurse and worked in Te Kuiti.

Jim still has familty in Ireland and he and his wife Sandra often visit tem.

BLAST FROM THE PAST

Kel Raine, ex announcer, started with Tauranga Village Radio in 1986. Some 25 years later he retired but still kept the Tee Shirt that his late wife Ann had made for him during his first year. Note in the photo of Kel it shows that the broadcasts were only on a Sunday from 9-00am to 5-00pm.

Kel now has his own small radio station, Radio Carmel (107.3FM) which he started some 8 years ago. He broadcasts 24/7  at the Retirement Village where he lives. The music is pure nostalgia.

SOPHIE-MAUDE YOUNG SINGER INTERVIEWED

WAITANGI DAY STUDIO GUEST-BUDDY MIKAERE

VISITORS FROM FRANCE

A VERY SPECIAL STUDIO GUEST

WELLINGTON VISITORS

 During our announcer Tony Hunt's broadcast he was delighted to show around our wonderful station two lovely young ladies from Wellington. Meleme (Mel) is French and Kristina (Krisi) is from Germany. They announced their own request on air - Here Comes The Sun by The Beatles.

Tony stated that they would make great additions to our volunteers if they were living locally as they took a great interest in what we are doing and spent 45 minutes both in the studios and Museum!

HAPPY CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR

Village Radio would like to wish all their listeners, sponsors and volunteers a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR. Thank you all for your continued support.

Christmas Day from 8-00am until 1-00 pm we have Peter Shaw 'live' on air followed by Marie Burns, so keep those phone calls coming in with requests or a chat to let them know you are listening.

OVER 60'S CLUB IN OUR STUDIOS

Bob Lucas and 5 other members from the Over 60s Club spent a couple of hours at our studios, visiting the Museum, Vinyl Record Library and our 2 broadcasting studios. 

They were shown around by Jim Byrnes and John Cullen who also answered the many questions that were asked. Bob selected his own request and announced it `on air`. A feature that is becoming very popular with our visitors.

The photo is of the group in our studio one.

AGM RESULTS FOR VILLAGE RADIO

Last night, 9th Noveber 2022 was Village Radio's AGM and we have a new Committee. They are as follows:- 

BAYVIEW-OCEANIA RESIDENTS BROADCAST

VISITORS TOURING OUR STUDIOS

BONNIE LEONARD IS GUEST ANNOUNCER

Saturday 15th October turned out to be very busy at Village Radio. Bonnie Leonard a Volunteer for over 20 years with Village Radio, (now retired), is on a visit to Tauranga from Gore.  She was guest announcer for the 10 am to 1-00pm broadcast. While Bonnie announced Steve Lambie, our Chairperson, assisted by putting on the records.   

It wasn't long before the phones started to ring and visitors were coming into the studio to said "Hello".  Bonnie did the Sunday morning broadcasts for quite a number of years so is well remembered.

Two of the visitors were from the first cruise ship to come to Tauranga in 2 years, The Majestic Princess. They were Ken Smith and Roz Reeve from Elmsett near Ipwich in Suffolk. They were given a tour of the Station and Bonnie played their request, Vincent by Peters and Lee.  

Photo is of Bonnie with Ken and Roz and Steve

CITY PARK RADIO VOLUNTEERS IN OUR STUDIO

Ken Wadsworth welcomed visitors Adrian and Dianne Wood to our studios on Thursday, 6th October.  They were visiting friends here in Tauranga. They are Volunteers at City Park Radio Station in Launceston, Tasmania. 

The photo is of the 19^th century former caretakers cottage, now the studios of City Park Radio, and has one of Australia's oldest wisteria vines, planted in 1837.

AN INTERVIEW WITH SANDRA SIMPSON

17 YEARS A VOLUNTEER WITH VILLAGE RADIO

Shirley Hanly has now retired from Tauranga Village Radio after being a Volunteer Announcer for 17 years. The Chairman Steve Lambie presented Shirley with a book marking her years at the Station. It was given to Shirley at an afternoon tea with other Volunteer's attending. The book was produced by Sheila Lacey another Volunteer.

The photo from left Sheila Lacey, Shirley Hanly and Steve Lambie.

DR PHIL SHOEMACK INTERVIEWED

George Stewart’s Studio guest on Monday was the Medical Officer of Health, and Clinical Director of the Bay of Plenty District Health Board, Dr. Phil Shoemack. His team were instrumental in setting up the Vaccine Centres and the vaccines. There are not many Centres as people are encouraged to have the total of 4 vaccines available and do their own testing in their own homes.  

Hospitals are under great pressure as numbers of Covid cases have increased and also being winter we have the flu season.    

Dr Shoemack stated that as far as Covid was concerned there was light at the end of the tunnel but we were not out of it yet.  Three of the main things to remember were wear a mask, physically distance, wash or sanitise your hands regularly but most importantly get vaccinated.

CANCER SOCIETY'S SHAY ROUT TALKS WITH TONY RHIND

2nd August on Tony Rhind's programme, he interviewed Shay Rout, Events Co-ordinator for the Cancer Society.  The main topic was the Societys build up to their major fundraiser of the year Daffodil Day, Friday 26th August. It was postponed last year due to Covid. The funds collected on the day stay in Tauranga and helps with the many services the Cancer Society provides. 

Some of the services include one on one support for patient and families, driving people to appointments, providing accommodation while people are having treatment and supporting patients in care programmes. For more information visit the Cancer Society website where you can learn more about the Society, donate or volunteer. www.cancer.org.nz.   

Tony stated that he had been a Volunteer driver for the Society for a number of years and was one of the most rewarding things he had ever been involved with.  Remember Daffodil Day is the 26th August.

STUDIO GUEST TAURANGA COMMISSIONER ANN TOLLEY

The studio guest on Monday 29th May was  Tauranga Commissioner Anne Tolley. The  afternoon announcer George Stewart had arranged this special interview, following the much anticipated announcement that the entire Civic Precinct rebuild would be undertaken in one go, costing 303 Million dollars !    Mrs Tolley revealed that it was more than likely that Willow Street would be closed to vehicular traffic, as that entire block would become a family friendly area with lawns, trees, and seats, with a link down through the existing Masonic Park area.

NIGEL TUTT TALKED ABOUT A MAJOR DEVELOPMENT FOR TAURANGA

BEV HAYMAN REMEMBERS EARLY JAZZ FESTIVALS

MULTICULTURAL SOCIETY BROADCASTS

Every third Monday at 5pm Village Radio broadcasts the Multicultural Hour with Mimi Hung who plays an active part of the Chinese community, especially helping immigrants. 

The listeners are in Tauranga and Rotorua mostly but she records and re-distributes the broadcasts to China, the Auckland Eastern Chinese Society, the USA and Hong Kong. Unfortunately many people do not have the AM band nowadays or do not know how to find it, but the distribution of the broadcasts seems to work for now.

Every month Mimi tries to get someone who is willing to share their experiences and tell the "joy and sorrow" of what they do. So far they have included interviews with, a Motel Owner, Orchardist, Estate Agent, a Chinese Musician and the Shakti Organisation. Also Early history of the Chinese migrant in NZ by Prof Manying Yip from Auckland University, DHB Nurse talking about Covid plus many more. With the help of our announcer George Stewart, who puts on the records, Mimi plays Chinese Golden Oldies songs which many listeners seem to enjoy.

If you wish any further information please contact Village Radio and we will pass the message onto Mimi.    info@villageradio.co.nz

LUCY WILLARD OF AGE CONCERN INTERVIEWED

HAPPY NEW YEAR FOR 2022

With all the Christmas festivities over we look forward to 2022 as being, we hope the start of a better New Year.

We at Village Radio wish all our listeners a Very Happy and Healthy New Year.  

Don't forget to keep those requests coming in (571-3710) all our announcers love to hear from you.  We have some 150,000 tracks in our record library so I am sure there is something for you all.

COMMISSIONER ANN TOLLEY OUR LAST GUEST FOR 2021

HAPPY CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR

All of the Village Radio Volunteers would like to wish all our listeners and sponsors a VERY HAPPY CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR. We thank you all for your continued support.

On Christmas Day from 8-00am until 10-00am we have Peter Shaw 'live' on air so keep those phone calls coming in with requests or a chat.

The rest of Christmas Day will be pre-recorded music from our Chairman, Steve Lambie, which gives our Volunteers time with their families.

HEALTH AND DISABILITY ADVOCATE INTERVIEWED

Emma explained that everyone using a health and disability service has the protection of The Code Of Health and Disability Services Consumer Rights. As an independent advocate Emma is available to anyone who wishes to make a complaint, if they feel their rights, dignity or treatment have been less than satisfactory. 

She told our listeners that she can be contacted either at her office, at the Historic Village, or on the Health and Disability free phone line , 0800 555 050, or on the web site at advocacy@hdc.org.nz

KEITH SPOONER DIES AGED 98 YEARS

It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of ex announcer, Keith Spooner aged 98 years. 

Keith was one of the pioneers of Village Radio and did much in his many years as a Volunteer in the 80's. 90's and the early 2000 to promote us to many parts of the World, long before social media.

In his later life he unforunately lost his sight so relied on his love of music to keep his spirits up.  I visited him on many occasions and we could talk for an hour or more about yesteryear nostalgic music, I will very much miss our talks.

The photo of Keith and Sheila was taken at one of Village Radio's Mid Year Christmas Parties.

LOUD AND CLEAR IN BERLIN

An avid radio DX'er in Berlin has tuned into Village Radio, after using the internet to access a special listening site in Rotorua, which is able to pick up Village Radio at perfect strength and quality.
Gerald Puhlmann sent a detailed reception report to our technicians after listening to Kate Pollock and Jim Byrnes’s programmes on Wednesday morning, 10th November 2021. Complimenting them on an excellent choice of music.
This is certainly the longest distance listener that has ever tuned into Village Radio, that we are aware of.  (Dx is Radio code for long distance Radio transmission).

AGM - 17TH NOVEMBER 2021

Last night was Village Radio's AGM and we have a new Committee. They are as follows:-  

KIWI BUS BUILDERS, RICHARD DRUMMOND INTERVIEWED

B.O.P. SYMPHONIA'S JUSTUS ROZEMOND INTERVIEWED

STUDIOS BRING EVOLUTION OF RADIO TO THE HOUSE OF SCIENCE

 Photo of the 1902 Edison Bell Phonograph (Horn held by a music stand) For further photos visit our Photo Gallery

62 YEARS A VOLUNTEER

George Stewart to-day interviewed Volunteer extraordinaire Alan Pine. Alan has been a Volunteer for 62 years with St John Ambulance as a Tauranga Health Shuttle Driver.  

He joined St John in Auckland in 1955, he started in the Youth Programme and says in many ways it has not changed. The highest award for a cadet is to aim for was the Grand Prior badge and still is. When he became 'too old' for the cadets he took on the role of youth cadet divisions both in Auckland and Tauranga. He later became District Officer of Cadets.

At one stage he was responsibile for providing the volunteer medical cover for the Commonwealth Games in Auckland. He took three weeks off work and was flat out organising about 135 volunteers that they got in for the games.    Alan says being a part of St John is a good pastime even if you’ve got full time work.  Alan's career was in the Insurance industry.

In 1998 Alan received St John's highest honour when he was made Knight of Grace.

YIPHEE - WE ARE BACK ON AIR

PRIORITY ONE

Nigel Tutt is the CEO of the Western Bay of Plenty ratepayer funded Economic Development organisation, "Priority One".  He was interviewed on George Stewart's program on Monday. 

He has a staff of 16 working in Tauranga, to build on the sub-region's competitive advantages, which aims to bring innovation, new business and new companies, to our fast growing community. 

VILLAGE RADIO'S "ETHNIC HOUR"

The Ethnic Police officer working in our Multicultural community, Jason Wharewera was interviewed by Shirley Huber, from the Filipino community.  Jason was born and bred in Malaysia, and is of Maori and Chinese descent.  Shirley also interviewed the current President of Tauranga Multicultural, Premila D'mello.

Other ethnic groups involved in the Monday broadcasts are from the Chinese and Nepalese communities.

CABBAGE TREE MAKES A DIFFERENCE

Listeners to Village Radio should be picking up a much stronger signal now that a cabbage tree was cut down that had grown up into the transmission aerial at the Historic Village.

We are hoping that some of our listeners experiencing below standard reception will beable to hear much clearer.

OUR WONDERFUL VOLUNTEERS

The 20th to 26th June is National Volunteer Week. There are approx 1,008,000 as at 2018.  

At Tauranga Village Radio we have 27 Volunteers. We broadcast approx 64 hours per week. An average week we need 21 announcers and 4-5 panel operators.  Each announcer does a 3 to 5 hour broadcast but add to that the program preparation time of 2-3 hours.    

The hours being 7 days per week, the only day we do not do a live broadcast is Christmas Day, but a Volunteer does go into the studio so that a pre-recorded playlist can be aired. 

Our broadcast hours :- 

8-00am to 10-00am,  

10-00am to 1-00pm   

1-00pm to 5-00pm   

We also have a librarian, web support, technicians, a Committee of 8, who are made up of the Volunteers, they all work as Volunteers behind the scences.   

The satisfaction of all our Volunteers is knowing that they can bring enjoyable, varied, musical programmes and a friendly voice into the homes of our listeners.

WORKING AS A COMMUNITY POLICE OFFICER

Tauranga Community Police Constable Jenna Southon talked with Geprge Stewart on our Monday afternoon broadcast about her role as a Community Police Officer.     

The main role is to be visible, accessible and familiar to the community.  Community constables focus on problem solving and crime prevention at a local level. She outlined some of the preventive measures against crime.  

Jenna covers the Tauranga area out as far as Omokora. Her regular work may include walking the beat, talking to business owners and pedestrians, meeting with community groups, schools and organisations, identifying community concerns, and building partnerships with the community, government and non-government agencies. Liasing with community patrols who are all Volunteers and report anything suspicious as well as patroling schools, sports venues and other organisations. 

The photo is of Police Constable Jenna Southon out on patrol

OUR YOUNGEST VOLUNTEER RETURNS

Samuel Lacy was a 16 year old when he joined us as a Volunteer from 2016 to 2020. He left to go to University and for one day only returned to broadcast with Peter Donnelly on the Monday 7th June. Here is Chairman Brian Williams presenting Samuel with a Certificate of Appreciation for the time he spent as a Village Radio Volunteer before he returns to University.

FOUND IN OUR ARCHIVES

I was trolling through Village Radio's Archives and came across a file that was compiled by Keith Spooner and who donated his files to Tauranga Village Radio. I would like to share part of it with you.  

"On the weekends when Telethon took over the Country (1975 to 1993) for 2 days, Village Radio did it's share broadcasting for 27 hours non-stop receiving pledges and replaying them to Wellington and playing requests.  We installed extra desks and our technical volunteers connected extra phone lines.  Announcing staff were all roped in to work and I remember that I drew the short straw doing the 'dog watch' from 12 til 4-00am in the morning. (Of course Keith played "It's 3 o'clock in the morning" dead on time!!)  

Stars arrived from all over the world and musical partners Tony Hatch, who wrote the songs and  his wife, Jacqui Trent who was the singer, arrived by helicopter on the road outside the Village gates and rattled their collection buckets amongst the crowds. We don't have Telethons anymore I don't know why as they raised a lot of money and were heaps of fun." 

Keith is now in his nineties and lives in Radius Matua Rest Home and if not for his record keeping we would have lost much of the history of our station.

Photo - Keith Spooner taken last year. 

HON ANNE TOLLEY INTERVIEWED

TOKO TUKUTAI IS FAREWELLED

37th BIRTHDAY PARTY A HIT

What a GREAT 37th Party Village Radio had. Some 70 plus Listeners and Volunteers attended the party held at the Volunteer Coastguard Headquarters at Sulphur Point Marina (they kindly donated the use of their facialities to us). GREAT company, GREAT music, with our own Ken Wadsworth playing the saxaphone and Steve Lambie supplying the nostalgic music.  GREAT food and lots of laughter. In a few days time we will be adding a lot of photos on our Website Photo Gallery.

Photo of our lovely cake, as there was some left we shared it with some of the other tenants in the Historic Village

SPECIAL TRANSMISSION FOR OUR 37th BIRTHDAY

April 13th 2021 Tauranga Village Radio celebrated 37 years of broadcasting by using our oldest transmitter, a 84 year old Collins one kilowatt which was built at Cedar Rapids, Iowa U.S.A. It was one of 4 purchased by the New Zealand Government for the new commercial Stations in 1936.  In 1960 it came to Paengaroa near Te Puke to be used to run 1ZD Tauranga and then on to us.

On the 5th January 2013, the then 75 year old Collins Transmitter, went on air without a hitch. The transmitter is only the second known or could be the only one to be operating in the world and was restored by our technicians at Village Radio, Russ Bain, George Stewart and Neil Walsh. It has been out of action for over 13 years but has been painstakingly restored by the technicians and a grant from the Lotteries Commission.

As the photo shows Ted Adelman another volunteer technician, is firing up the Collins for it's broadcast this morning and true to form the transmition ran smoothly without a hitch.

TV's HAYDN JONES FROM GOOD SORTS IN OUR STUDIOS

Tauranga Village Radio was a hive of activity on Tuesday 30th March. Haydn Jones from TV1's "Good Sorts" (which acknowledges people doing good things in their community), was in our studio to film a segment for his TV show. We even got him to broadcast a message live on air which he seemed to enjoy doing. You can see this clip on our Facebook page.  Watch this Sunday 4th April just after the 6pm News and before Country Calandar.  

Altho he was filming for nearly three hours he edits the footage down to a 2.20 minute clip. The announcer for the morning were Peter Donnelly with Kate Pollock putting on the records. Then at 10-00 Graeme Millow took over. Also contributing were Chairperson, Brian Williams, Station Manager, George Stewart and Secretary/Web Support, Sheila Lacey.

Photo - Haydn Jones in Village Radio's studio.

JULIE GREEN TALKS TO VILLAGE RADIO

To-day, Thursday 25th February, George Stewart interviewed, Julie Green the President of the Tauranga Historical Society.  The objectives of the Society are to foster and maintain an appreciation of places and objects of historic interest particularly in the Bay of Plenty, to encourage the study and research of local history and to manage, preserve and display the Brain Watkins House as a house museum open to the public. This was gifted with all it's contents to the Historical Society by Elva Brian-Watkins in 1979.   

Julie told George of the Brain Watkins Garden Party celebrating the 42nd year it has been put on. It will be held on Sunday the 7th March at 1-30 to 4 pm.  The main attraction is a Costume Competition, the public are asked to dress in costumes of yesteryears. There will be Live Music, Tour of the Historic Home, a variety of stalls and afternoon tea.  

Julie also said that they are always looking for new Volunteers and anyone interested should contact the Society via there website. 

Photo - Julie Green in our studio

U3A PRESIDENT, ANNE WITHY INTERVIEWED

FORMER TAURANGA BIG BAND MEMBER TURNS 100

LAST INTERVIEW OF 2020

CHRISTMAS GREETINGS

The Volunteers of Village Radio would like to wish all our loyal listeners a VERY HAPPY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY, PEACEFUL AND HEALTHY NEW YEAR.

It was wonderful to see so many of you at our Christmas party and look forward to meeting you all at our next function.

Christmas Day, Peter Donnelly will be presenting 'Music Only' so he can be home with his family during the day. Then it is back to normal for our Volunteer announcers after Christmas Day, so please let them know you are listening and ask for a request - 571-3710.

INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTEER DAY

To-day, 5th December 2020 is International Volunteer Day. This years International Volunteer Day theme is Together We Can. In 2018 there were 1,008,000 Volunteers, meaning that 21.5% are estimated New Zealanders participating in 'formal volunteering'.

Here at Village Radio we try and celebrate our wonderful Volunteers not one day or even a week but every day. Their dedication to bringing enjoyable, varied, musical programmes from bygone days to our listeners is exceptional.   Volunteers generously give their time to make nonprofit and charity organization events or programs run smoothly. Acknowledgement of this selfless effort from time to time helps remind these individuals of their importance to the greater good. 

National Volunteer Week 2021 will run from 20-26 June 2021.   

BRIAN COTTER OF THE VILLAGE RADIO FAMILY

It was with great sadness that Village Radio Volunteers heard of the passing of Brian Cotter on Friday 27th November, in Napier.

Brian was with Village Radio for just a few years but the impact he had was extraordinary.  He called us his "Village Radio Family", a name which is now used a lot by his fellow Volunteers.

He was an announcer, and his Saturdy morning programmes always had his infectious chuckle and knowledge of the music he played. He did numerous interviews of his fellow entertainers (which are all on this website) and was a great promoter of Village Radio.

"Too Bloody Busy To Grow Old" was a biographical book he launched at his 90th Birthday Party in 2019. It was aptly named as it took ill health to slow him down. 

It is no good saying rest in peace Brian as even in heaven you will be organising parties, the entertainment and the music. We will just say farewell and God Bless you will be missed.   Your Village Radio Family.

WE FAREWELL POPULAR VOLUNTEER

Carole Marsden, announcer and co-ordinator of The Friends of Village Radio has had to resign due to health problems.

Carole was on air every Tuesday morning doing her programme of nostalgic music. During her programme she also played the Listeners Choice Requests.

These are requests which for a small donation, you can pick 10 of your favourite tunes to be played on air.  This will now be taken over by Steve Lambie.

We, her fellow Volunteers wish Carole better health in the future and thank her for being part of the "Village Family".

VILLAGE RADIO A.G.M. RESULTS

The yearly Tauranga Village Radio Museum Inc AGM was held yesterday (18th November) and the results were:-

Chairperson                Brian Williams

Vice Chairperson         Graeme Millow

Station Manager         George Stewart

Treasurer                   Kelvin Roach

Secretary                   Sheila Lacey

Committee Members:- Errol Hay, Kate Pollock, Peter Donnelly 

Photo Our Chairperson, Brian Williams

OUR PHOTO GALLERY UPGRADED

Diane Blackmore of Cohesion Web Design, who was the originator of our webpage, has been working on a new way to view our photos.

They are now in "Albums" and by putting your cursor over one of the photos displayed it will tell you what that album is about.  By clicking on it the photos can be viewed one by one by using the arrow to the right or back to the left.

Try it out you may be in the Gallery!

Photo is of Diane Blackmore

GARDEN AND ART FESTIVAL

On Monday George Stewart spoke with Marc Anderson the Director of this years Garden and Art Festival, which is on the 19th to 22nd November.  270 gardens were viewed in the Western Bay before selecting the 70 which will be open and which you can visit.

There will be around 100 artists on display – with that number comprising of individual artists as well as groups, such as Tauranga Art Society and Bethlehem Pottery Club.

Bloom in the Bay – the Festival Hub is at Tauranga Racecourse. Live Music • Kids Zone • Food Trucks • Bar • Stage Acts • Presentations & Workshops • Creative Demonstrations • Art Exhibitions • Flower Displays • and More.

OLDER PEOPLE GET FORGOTTEN

Carole Gordon, MNZM social justice advocate was in our studio talking with George Stewart. She first talked about her involvement with the new Bee Card that allows you to travel free on the Bay Hoppers buses from 9-00am going to many of the suburbs and beyond.    

Carole next discussed Covid and the impact on the elderly in our community. She is at present doing research into this subject. It is important to get the views of the elderly for policies and plans so that if Covid becomes prevalent again it can be acted upon. It is ground breaking work and as Carole stated ‘older people get forgotten’. There is another project, “Have Our Say”, being conducted by Te Arai Research Group, based at the School of Nursing, University of Auckland which is a similar study but is complimentary to Carole’s study. She works with the local councils and DHB’s and has a great compassion for the work. 

Carole has organised a questionnaire on how different elderly people have coped with being ‘isolated’ for weeks. Her connect number is 027-571-6422, e-mail agefriendly@kiwi.net or text her, she would love to hear about your story and experience during Covid.

KAIMAI TUNNEL WITH TREVOR AKOORIE

Thursday, 22nd October was the day George Stewart interviewed Trevor Akoorie. He worked on the construction of the Kaimai Tunnel for 5 years, from early 1972 to December 1976. His official title at West Portal was Mechancial Overseer in charge of workshops and about 20 personnel. His team was made up of fitters, welders and mechanics mostly from the Matamata and Morrinsville area.   

After a Commission of Inquiry in 1963 a survey was done and was approved in 1965, tunnelling began in October 1965. The West Portal tunnelling began in 1969. Unfortunately in 1970 a cave in occurred trapping 12 men with a loss of 4 lives.   In June 1976 East and West Portal breakthrough was achieved with both sides meeting in the middle. 

The tunnel was officially opened in September 1978 by the then Prime Minister Robert Muldoon. The original estimate was $11m but being serveral years behind schedule the final cost was $56m. 

 During the interview we played an original Tape Recording (from our archives) of the first ground turning/gelignite blast at the site by the then Minister of Works, Percy Allen.

BUSY TUESDAY

Tony Rhind was the announcer for Tuesday (20th October) and who was kept busy on the phone with requests.  Luckily Sheila was on hand to take a group of ladies for a tour around our studios. The group were from the Wesley Methodist Women's Fellowship and attached is a photo of two of them,  Lola the Secretary and Monica Co-Treasurer.

Just as we said 'Good-bye' to the ladies we had a another group, a local couple from Tauranga and a couple from Auckland. The afternoon announcer Steve Lambie, was also kept busy with visitors and requests which rounded off a "Busy Tuesday"

Photo -  Left, Lola and right Monica in Studio 1

PRIME MINISTER VISITS HISTORIC VILLAGE

A large crowd gathered at the Historic Village to welcome our Prime Minister Jacinda Arden. She had come to the Village to meet with some of the small businesses which are housed within the Village. She also met local community and business leaders.

As you can see from the photo she was surrounded at all times by people. Village Radio is highly visible and on the balcony, far right, the announcer for that morning Marion King, Eileen Roach, Librarian and Peter Donnelly taking some photos.

GARY WEBBER - MAYOR WESTERN B.O.P.

MULTI TALENTED VOLUNTEERS

Most of our Volunteers are multi talented and Eileen Roach is such a Volunteer.  She is our librarian and looks after our vinyl records, CD collection, enters all the afore mentioned onto our computer system. Shows visitors around the studios. Helps with our Facebook Page.  Helps with our Christmas function and if that is not enough has now become an Announcer.

Her first full broadcast was on Saturday 8th August.  Whilst she announced her husband, Kelvin put on the records.  He himself is a multi talented Volunteer.  He is our Treasurer and on the Board, trainer of new Volunteers, panel operator, also helps with our Christmas function. Buys all the day to day things needed to keep the station ticking along. 

The photo is of Eileen at her first full broadcast with her husband Kelvin.

TRIUMPH & TRIBULATION CONCERT

A VILLAGE RADIO VOLUNTEER/PRESENTATION EVENING

 As a popular song says "Oh What A Night". Most of our Volunteers with their wives/husbands/partners gathered at the 88 Cameron Chinese Restaurant on Tuesday 28th July.  It was also a night that our Chairman, Brian Williams presented Announcer Brian Cotter with a certificate of appreciation from all of us at Village Radio.

Brian is moving to Napier in October and he will be sadly missed by all of us as always having an infectious laugh and great sense of humour plus his dedication to Village Radio in the few years he has been with us.  He calls us his Village Radio Family and I beleive that is an accurate statement.

It was a great party,  we as Volunteers don't see each other that often but when we do "Oh What A Night".

 Photo:- Brian Williams presenting Brian Cotter with the Certificate of Appreciation

RED HAT DAMES VISIT VILLAGE RADIO

Ten ladies from Carmel Country Estate Retirement Village visited our studios on Thursday.  Although it was a wet miserable day outside they received a warm welcome from Volunteer, Steve Lambie, who gave them a tour of our studios and Museum .

The group is called the "Red Hat Dames" and they belong to the Red Hat Society. It is a Sisterhood of like minded women who make friends and enrich lives through the power of Fun and Friendship. They say they also look fabulous doing it!  The signature red and pink hats symbolise a movement of women determine to celebrate every stage of life.

Photo is of some of the Red Hat Dames in our studio 

1930's RADIO DONATED

A Pilot Valve Radio was donated to Village Radio Museum on Monday by Allan Mordecai, a former NZBC Superintendant.

It is in good condition and works well.

Our Museum is open during our broadcast hours, so 'pop' along and see some of our vintage collection.

B.O.P. MEDICAL OFFICE - TALKS ABOUT COVID 19

Dr Phil Shoemack, BOP Medical Officer of Health, Toi Te Ora was George Stewart's guest in our studio. He is also a public health physician and the Medical Leader for the Bay of Plenty District Health Board Regional Community Services.

Dr Shoemack spoke of his resonsibilites and role in the current Covid 19 Corona Virus Pandemic.  There were over 50 reported cases in the Bay of Plenty of people being infected with the virus, a number were so ill they had to be hospitalised.

Phil's team of around 50 staff are responsible for checking the regions air and water quality, following up of any reported cases of Salmonella, Campylobacter Viral Infections, Shellfish Contamination and setting up teams to test people for the Corona Virus.

Phil is a keen advocate for safe cycling in an around Tauranga and rode his collapsible bike from Toi Te Ora Health on Cameron Road to Village Radio.

MULTICULTURAL BROADCASTS TO START BROADCASTING AGAIN

During the Covide19 lockdown our friends from the Multicultural Society discontinued their broadcasts.  We are happy to announce that from Monday they will be broadcasting again.

TENBY POWELL TALKS ON VILLAGE RADIO

George Stewart's guest this week was the Mayor of Tauranga, Tenby Powell.  

The Mayor talked about the first 200 days in office and some of the serious problems the new Council inherited.    

He has visions of upgrading the Kaimai Railway tunnel, running passenger trains to Auckland, double tracking the line from the Port of Tauranga to the new Inland Port at Ruakura, as well as the transfer of the Ports of Auckland container terminals to Tauranga, if the Auckland Port closes down..

With the City Council facing a massive deficit in its rates this year he has been meeting with Central Government to claim some hefty regional assistance packages, but Tauranga ratepayers will probably be looking at a small increase this year, of around 60cents per week. 

He is not in favour of closing the Begonia House in Robbins Park and wants to keep many of the Hanging Baskets, which give much pleasure to shoppers to the CBD. 

He sees the CBD becoming a residential suburb of Apartments which eventually will bring back the retail/bussiness community.  He could not say much about the failed Harington Street Parking Building except that Council will be attempting to recover as much money as possible.

WE ARE BACK ON AIR !!!

On Thursday, 13th May we begin our broadcasts again.  At 8-00am Kate Pollock will take us through to 10-00am

Then George Stewart followed at 1-00pm and including NZ Music at 4-00pm with Ken Wadsworth.

We have all missed playing your favourite nostalgic music and we are looking forward to your e-mails (info@villageradio.co.nz) and telephone calls. Don't forget 571-3710 for your requests.

SAD NEWS FOR OUR LISTENERS

COVID 19. It is with much regret that Volunteers of Tauranga Village Radio have decided to cease broadcasting as from tomorrow afternoon 22nd March. 

Most of our volunteers are over 70 and are of course in the vulnerable age bracket. We will keep everyone informed of any further development. To all our listeners, we thank you all for your ongoing support and we hope that we will be back on air very soon. Our very best wishes to you all.

TAURANGA VILLAGE RADIO CLOSED TO VISITORS

Tauranga Village Radio Museum has decided that until the Coronavirus epidemic subsides we will not be opening the Studios or our Museum to visitors.  The first time in 35 years!!

Another change, to keep our staff  safe, is to discontinue studio interviews. We, the Volunteers, will however continue to broadcast your nostalgic music as usual on 1368 on the AM band.

If you are in self isolation and feel you would like a chat, with the outside world, do not hesitate to call one of our caring announcers.  Also if you would like a piece of your favourite music played we are just a phone call away.  Phone 571 3710.

VILLAGE RADIO MUSEUM - RECORD OF ARTIFACTS

Thanks to the effort and skill of a wonderful visitor we now have a detailed inventory of every item in our Radio Museum.  Lt Commander Jerry Anderson RN (rtd) and his wife travelled from the UK to be at the birth of their daugter's twins!

Over 4 weeks he has meticulously noted the location, make and model of every radio, turntable, tape recorder, etc creating a computer generated spreadsheet. On some days the tempreture in the Museum must have been in excess of 30 degrees.

This morning, Village Radio Chairman, Brian Williams presented Jerry with a signed certificate of appreciation, a thank you card and some New Zealand Wine.  

CORBAN SIMPSON OF BLERTA IN OUR STUDIO

On Saturday, 18th January Brian Cotter interviewed a very special guest, Corban Simpson from the New Zealand band BLERTA. 

The name was derived from the initials of a band formed by Bruno Lawrence, " Bruno Lawrence Electric Revelation and Travelling Aparition" formed in October 1971. 

While in Welllington after a tour of the Waiaprapa they had their first recording session at HMV studios.  From this session came "Dance All Around The World" the lyrics were written by George Murphy and the music was by Corban and sung by him. It made it to number 13 in the National Charts.

In 1973 they headed for Australia where they spent 18 months. Back in New Zealand, May 1976 they did a six part series for TV winning a Feltex Award.  They disbanded shortly after.

During the interview Corban did a song "Red Balloon" written by his friend, James Wairea and said that if he records another single itt is the song he would like to record. 

Photo Corban Simpson

ANDREW LOVE - RADIO - THE GLAMOROUS JOB

Saturday morning Brian Cotter interviewed Andrew Love who has a long time connection with Village Radio.  When he was with IZB they donated the transmitter and other equipment we have used for many years. 

He was born in England then he with his parents emigrated to New Zeland and settled in Tauranga. First job was with Bay Times, then 2 years later in 1970 with IZB, being then the youngest advertising agent. He said that in those days to be in radio was a "Glamour Job".  

He left to do his big OE and found a vacancy again in radio on his return.  He became the first ever to sell advertsing on commission.  In 1975 with some friends started the first ever Disco called Sgt Peppers Disco intitally for 1 night per week but which turned into 6 nights per week. One of his passions is sport and got to be a commentator for such things as the Rugby Spring Bok tour in 1981 and 1987 the First World Rugby Cup.   

2016 he remarried and he and wife Louise, bought a motorhome and travelled for 18 months visiting 48 countries.

Photo: Andrew Love with Brian Cotter in Studio 2.

MAYOR TENBY POWELL INTERVIEWED

Tauranga's very busy Mayor, Tenby Powell was the special Christmas Guest this morning on Village Radio, with Station Manager, George Stewart.

In the 30 minute interview he covered the controversial Council decision to revoke the 'rough sleeping' ban on the homeless people in retail areas and the need to build 'up' in a sprawing City of Peninsulas.  The Mayor also emphasised how importanty it has been to involve Government Ministers and the Mayors of both the Regional and Western Bay of Plenty Councils, in getting vital projects underway.

He is adamant that the present location of the Council building in Willow Street is unsatisfactory and would like to see them headquartered in new premises, on the former TV3 site, now a car park across from Bay Court.

Other topics included the lack of a Museum, the poor use of buses, the need to better look after tourists and a new industrial development planned at Tauriko.  The Mayor also sent his best wishes to our listeners and Volunteers for Christmas and the New Year. George also took the Mayor for a tour around Village Radio's studios and the Radio Museum. 

Photo:  Mayor Tenby Powell in Village Radio's Studio 1

MOUNT LIONS PRESIDENT INTERVIEWED

In our studio on Saturday talking with Brian Cotter was Des Anderson, President of the Mount Lions Club accompanied by his daughter Brenda who hopes to recruit more females into the Club. 

Des was born in Wellington, he joined the Army in 1959 and trained in the SAS.  They were trained to go to Vietnam, but thought to be too agrassive did not go.  Later on leaving the Army he decided to go to Australia where he worked for a company which serviced 800 trucks for the US Army in Vietnam and which were driven by Vietnamese drivers.   

He returned to New Zealand in 1975 and wanting to give back to the community joined the Lions Club it was there that he met Brian Cotter. The Mount Lions have made donations to 13 organisations within the last 6 months. One little girl, Zahnee who had health problems was helped by Lions sponsoring a flight to the USA for treatment. Now 14 she wanted to 'pay it forward' by doing a sponsored climb to the top of Mt Maunganui and selling tee shirts at $20. She raised $6,000 donating it to the Lions for their community work.    The latest fundraiser for Mount Lions is getting donations of Christmas gifts to give to some 250 children. 

Photo of Des Anderson and his daughter Brenda in our studio 2.

ANTARCTIC VISITOR - MIKE LORD

Visiting our studio last Saturday (23rd November) was Mike Lord and friend Dave Morgan.  Mike was interviewed on air by Brian Cotter. Now living at Greenwood Park Retirement Village it is a far cry from the Antarctic where Mike spent 13 months.  He came from Kenya to New Zealand in 1971, and later became part of a team that went to maintain Scott Base. He described himself as a "Jack of all Trades, but was at the time a registered Electrician.   

They had a radio station at the base run by the Americans stationed there.  They also borrowed movies from them for their entertainment. 

Mike left the base in 1978 when they celebrated the 21st anniversary of Scott Base being opened. He just missed New Zeland's worst airline disaster Mt Erebus in 1979. 

The photo shows Mike in Winter compared with Summer

WHAT A 'CRACKER' OF A PARTY

On Sunday the 24th November we had the Village Radio Christmas Party.  It was very well attended by both the Volunteers and Friends and listeners of our wonderful station.

The entertainment was by Jim Wood, our Friday morning announcer, along with his wife Zita and sister Kay. Brian Cotter was the Master of Ceremonies.  The party was funded by Village Radio as a BIG thank you to our listeners for their support. We also had several door raffles and food a plenty to eat. 

There was a Christmas Quiz and Sheila Lacey presented Steve and Judith (who unfortunately could not attend) a Certificate of Appreciation and a bunch of flowers provided by Eillen Roach.  They are still very active with the station but have stepped down after 5 years of being Chairman and Secretary respectively plus for the same length of time doing the sausage sizzle twice a month on a Sunday.

Jim Wood and the guests all sang Happy Birthday to our Station Manager, George Stewart whose birthday was on Sunday.

All in all a very, enjoyable afternoon.

The photo is Far left Zita Wood, Kay, Jim Wood

VILLAGE RADIO AGM

The 20th November was our AGM meeting which was well attended by the majority of Volunteers. Here are the results of the nominations.

    Chairperson          Brian Williams

    Vice Chairperson   Brian Cotter

    Station Manager    George Stewart

    Treasurer              Kelvin Roach

    Secretary              Sheila Lacey

    Committee            Jim Brynes

                                Errol Hay

                                Marion King

    Photo                    Brian Williams

LAST SAUSAGE SIZZLE

5 years ago our Chairman, Steve Lambie and his wife Judith decided to have a Sausage Sizzle for Village Radio during the Historic Village Markets that are held there. The markets are every first and third Sundays of the month. It was to not only get revenue to keep the Station on air but also to give us a better profile. 

Steve and Judith have been getting to the Village at 6-45am for the markets twice a month to set up and get the 'sizzle' working. 

They have also had a constant supply of help from Kelvin Roach, Brian Williams, Sid Pavett, Neil Walsh, and a listener, Stan. 

It is to Steve and Judith's credit that the money raised over that 5 years added up to a whole year of us being able to broadcast.  

Steve and Judith would now like to travel and spend weekends away, so with no one to take on such an undertaking it was decided to call it a day. 

Both Steve and Judith said that they will miss working as a team and meeting all the local people. 

The photo is Kelvin, Stan, Brian, Steve, Judith and Neil (Missing from the photo is Sid Pavett)

AUCKLAND LISTENER TAKES THE MIC

Some time ago now Graeme Crowther and his twin brother Christopher visited our studios from Auckland. They have been supporters of Village Radio for many years.

During Maria Burns Sunday programme, they announced a few songs during her broadcast.  Graeme phones our station on a daily basis to talk with our announcers.

The photo is of Graeme with Maria Burns

NEPALESE BROADCAST

Last Monday as part of the Multicultural Society of Tauranga broadcasts, the broadcast was given by the Nepalese community living in the Western Bay of Plenty. 

Anish Paudel came to NZ two years ago, he interviewed Bhakta Siwahang and thanked Pankaj Tripathi and Krishna Acharya for sharing their experiences as new comers to NZ.

He also thanked our own Brian Williams for his technical support.

The photo is everyone at our microphone in Studio One.

EARLY NZBC BROADCAST RECORDER IN OUR MUSEUM

We have many interesting items in our Museum at Village Radio and one is the AMPEX Series 351 Magnetic Tape Recorder/Reproducer which are high precision instruments designed for the professional user who requires the finest and most faithful recording and reproduction. It still works by the way! 

These recorders were purchased by the NZ Broadcasting Service during the early 1960's and were an integral part of every recording studio in the main broadcasting centres. 

The following tracks are on a tape which we have which was transferred from the NZBC Recording Centre in Wellington.

Track 1  1963 HM Queen Elizabeth at the Citizen's Welcome in Memorial Park, Tauranga. 

Track 2  1965 Govenor General Sir Bernard Ferguson laying the Foundation Stone of the Q.E.11 Youth Centre. 

Track 3  1965 Opening of the Kaimai Tunnel by the Minister of Works, Hon. Percy Allen. 

Track 4  1965 Oficial handing over at the Tauranga Harbour Board Wharves by Prime Minister Hon. Keith Holyoake. 

Track 5  1971 Lions Rugby Tour vs Bay of Plenty Score Lions 20 BOP 14.

Track 6  1961 Part of a feature "Desination Island" played on the day 1ZD Tauranga officially opened and started broadcasting, 25th February 1961

TAURANGA FILIPINO SOCIETY'S FIRST BROADCAST

On Monday 28th October, two delighful young ladies did a broadcast from our Studio at Village Radio.  What made it more special and a first for Village Radio was that they live streamed the broadcast to their Facebook Page.

During the programme their leader Shirley Huber read a poem and accompanied herself on the guitar.

Their second broadcast will be in a month's time.

The photo is Shirley Huber on the right and on the left, her colleague, Lolita Libeau.

SALLY AND BRIAN BURGESS INTERVIEWED

In our studio talking with Jim Wood on his Friday morning show was Sally and Brian Burgess. Sally is one of country's most accomplished and sucessful country music exports. 

Sally was born in Tasmania but spent most of her life here in New Zealand.  She went to a Country Music Club and as she said 'was hooked" on the music. In 1988 she won the Country Music Entertainer of the Year and in the same year Songwriter of the Year it has never been done before or since.   She is also a Registered Nurse. 

In 1994 with her husband Brian, decided to go to Nashville, Tennessee where they spent the next 25 years. They were able to get their 'Green Card' as Brian worked as a teacher to children with special needs. Sally has produced 7 CD's and Jim played a few of her tracks during the interview.  They have now returned to live in Tauranga. Her motto is "if you can swing it, I will sing it".

The photo of Sally Burgess was taken during her time in Nashville

SATURDAY MORNING HOST TURNS 90

Brian Cotter turns 90 years young to-day (21st October). He often jokes that the day he was born was the Wall Street Crash (Black Tuesday) and that people were jumping out of windows!!  The only jumping on his birthday will be our Volunteers wishing him a Very Happy Birthday.

Brian who has 5 children, 10 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren helped him celebrate his birthday with a Gadsby themed party at the retirement village complex, Bayswater on Saturday evening.

Brian told his life story to fellow Volunteer Kate McCarthy, the result was a 247 page printed book, called "Too Bloody Busy To Grow Old". In true 'showbiz' style Kate McCarthy and Brian launched the book at the party. A copy of the book was handed out to all his family, some to his friends and some to various libraries including our own at Village Radio.

The evening finished with a great music concert by Back Porch.

Photo is Brian at his party with some of his grandchildren and partners and the great grandchildren.

ANOTHER MILESTONE FOR KEITH

I have written before about our retired and much thought of by his fellow Village Radio Volunteers, ex-announcer, Keith Spooner. On Saturday he turned 96 years old. He is now in a Rest Home and I personally have been visiting him on a regular basis.  Before you know it 2 hours have gone by talking with Keith. He has a vast knowledge of music and I have learnt a lot by just talking with him.  

On Saturday I made sure that I was with Keith when Brian Wiliams one of our announcers dedicated a lovely segment of his program to Keith.  He not only gave Keith his and other Volunteer's there birthday wishes but said some really nice comments which Keith was extremely moved by.  Brian then went on to play 4 of Keith's favourite tunes.  Also with Keith was his daughter, Lesley, her husband Richard, Keith's granddaughter and her husband and even their pet dog Leo.  

We are very proud at Village Radio that our music and the contact that our announcers give to our listeners is sometimes the only communication and joy of early times they have.  

 Photo - Keith with Sheila Lacey at a previous Village Radio function

WORLD FESTIVAL OF MAGIC NZ

Brian Cotter's interview on his Saturday program was with Rosemarie McCarthy of International Entertainment. She was promoting the World Festival of Magic NZ which has been touring NZ for the past 30 years.

The shows are every November and December. 14 Lion Clubs throughout NZ host the shows which last for 90 minutes. Tickets cannot be purchased as they are all "complimentary". They are given to special needs children and their families to attend.

Tauranga City Sunraise Lions Club are hosts for the show at Bethlehem College Performing Arts Centre on Saturday 17th November at 4-30pm to 7-00pm.

NEW DONATION FOR OUR MUSEUM

On Saturday 21st September we were pleased to accept the donation of a Columbus Mantle Radio.  It was donated by Sarah Menzies who had driven with friend Linda Sylvester, from Auckland to make the donation.

The radio had belonged to Sarah's grandparents, Jack and Elsie Menzies and on seeing our website Sarah decided that it would be the perfect place for the much loved radio to be in our Museum.   Her grandparents who lived in Birkinhead, Auckland had paid the princely sum of £26.

Photo is of left Linda Sylvester and right Sarah Menzies with the Columbus Mantle Radio

GOOD SORTS

Our announcer Brian Cotter was watching TV One News on the 18th August and the segment "Good Sorts" turned out to be about his very good friends Ngaire and Ernie Lepper from Matamata. So on Saturday 24th he decided to interview them by phone about their voluntary work with Matamata Community Health Shuttle.

They have spent the last 11 years driving people to their hospital appointments. There are no public transport facilities either to Hamilton or the Hospital from Matamata so they help provide a viltal service.

Ernie was given 2 years to live, that was 10 years ago, so he says he knows what people are going through.  They also acknowledged the people that are also involved in the charity.

 Photo of Ngaire and Ernie Lepper sitting in the Shuttle

RETIREMENT IN BETHLEHEM

Jim Brynes interviewed Julie Batson, Sales Executive and Administrator with The Vines Retirement Village at Bethlehem.

The Village is on 12 hectares and is positioned on what was once the iconic Mills Reef Winery.  You can choose from one of two or three bedroom villas in detached and duplex configurations plus garaging.

The complex is close to all shops, supermarket and walking tracks at Bethlehem. 

The photo is of Julie Batson.

TASTE TAURANGA AND THE TAURANGA FESTIVAL

George Stewart had the pleasure of interviewing two accomplished ladies in our studio.  The first was Jo Bond, The Tauranga Festival Director. This years Festival is from the 24th October to the 3rd November and has participants from USA, Germany, Scotland, Canada and Australia as well as some major home-grown talent. Jo has travelled extensively to find the right people for the biennial Festival.  There is something for everyone and quite a few of the events are already sold out.   https://www.taurangafestival.co.nz

The second guest was Millie Newitt, the Mainstreet Tauranga Co-ordinator at Downtown Tauranga.  She has arranged this month's Taste Tauranga, featuring numerous Tapa Tastings, with around 31 Resturants, Cafes and Bars taking part.  The event finishes at the end of the month. For further information,  contact  https://www.downtowntauranga.co.nz/taste-tauranga-2019 .

The photo is of Jo Bond

THE GLENN MILLER BAND IN NZ

Gray Bartlett was interviewed by Brian Cotter on his Saturday morning show.  Gray had a fundraiser for the Variety Artists Club the night before with, Brendan Dugan, Jodi Vaughan and special guest Carson Taare aged 17 who is appearing with The Glenn Miller Band Tour, he is proving to be very popular and  even at his young age has had great exposure in America. 

There are 21 people coming out from America with the Band and they sell out all over the world, in fact they are booked 3/4 years ahead.   They are run by a Foundation which involves the Glenn Miller family. 

There is a show in Hamilton on the Friday, 6^th September, 7-30pm, you can either have theatre tickets or add dine/dance  as well. There is also a concert in Auckland on the 8^th September.  4 free tickets were on offer, but it did not take long for them to be snapped up.  You can get your tickets through Ticketek .  

 Photo of Carson Taare

AGE CONCERN - SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

George Stewart's studio guest this week was the General Manager of Age Concern Tauranga, Tanya Smith.

Age Concern offers many social and physical activities for the older residents of Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty. Some examples are : Safe With Age Driver tutorials, "Steady as You Go" falls prevention classes,  Walking Groups, Coffee and Conversation groups, as well as Mini Bus Adventures and outings for the men. A monthly meeting at the Tauranga RSA, with a keynote speaker, which attracts large numbers.  People living alone can also have an Accredited Visitor to call and keep them company for an hour.

To become a member costs just $25 per household.  Enquiries to 07 578 2631

Photo:- Tanya Smith in our studio.

50th ANNIVERSARY OF MOON LANDING

On his morning show Brian Cotter gave a salute to the Moon Landing, 50 years ago through stories and music.   

Although the live TV pictures were broadcast in the UK on Sunday night 20th July 1969, New Zealand had to wait until Monday 21st, 1969, after the film of the moon landing arrived in Wellington via a Royal NZ Canbarra bomber, which was used to fly the tape over the Tasman. It was taken to the New Zealand Broadcasting Corporation in town where it played on the news that evening.

Village Radio's link with this historic event was that one of our later announcers and volunteer, Colin McLean, was with the NZBC at the time and was there to help with the broadcast of the landing.

MAORI VOLCANICS - MAHORA PETERS

Brian Cotter's guest to-day was Mahora Peters lead singer and founding member of the legendary Maori Volcanics. Born in the Hikirangi she has travelled all over the world, 53 countries infact, with the Show Band.

Two of our greatest entertainers started out with the Volcanics, Prince Tui Teka (8 years) and Billy T. James (4 years).

Mahora and her husband Billy Peters have kept the group going and after 5 years in Las Vegas are now back in New Zeland touring once again. In fact prior to the interview they had been playing at the Citz Club here in Tauranga. They will be touring other parts of New Zealand before returning once again to Las Vegas.

In 2011 they received the award for a Lifetime Contribution to Maori Music.

Photo is of Mahora and husband Billy Peters.

MULTICULTURAL BROADCASTS ON VILLAGE RADIO

On Monday 8th July, Village Radio will be commencing it's first new Multi Cultural Broadcast at approx 5-00pm. 

Haidee Kalirai is from the Tauranga City Council and she will be talking about her work welcoming new arrivals from India and other countries to our beautiful city.   

Co-hosting the new programme will be the Manager of the Tauranga Regional Multicultural Society, Waitsu Wu, who is from Taiwan. 

Also included will be music from the various countries. 

On the 14th July, Waitsu will host a presenter, from the Chinese Friendship Society and the Wisdom Mandarin School, who will be talking about their work with the Chinese Community. 

Photo is of Waitsu Wu

THE MORE YOU GIVE THE MORE YOU RECEIVE

Jim Peterson of Westbay Real Estate was interviewed by George Stewart on his Thursday morning show.  Jim gives 20% of the full commission to registered charities and once the property is sold the donation is made. 

Over the last 18 months $30,000 has been donated to 7 different charities.  The latest being $8,500 to the Neurological Foundation. Jim stated that it was a privilege for him to be able to do this.

Jim was a registered builder for 22 years and has been in Real Estate for 28 years.  One of 500 Volunteers, Jim is with the "Good Neighbour" charity - Food Rescue - Their statement is "No Waste No Hunger - Redistributing food good enough to eat but not good enough to sell".  They collect food from 13 Supermarkets, Cafes and other food outlets which cannot be sold and then redistributed to 50 needy charities around Tauranga Monday to Friday. 1.8 tonnes of food is collected for distributing every day throughout New Zealand.

You can contact Jim on 0800-220012 or jim@westbay.nz

BLUE LIGHT - EMPOWERING YOUTH

Interviewed by George Stewart on his Thursday morning show, Constable Elliot Hira, who is the Programme Co-ordinator of NZ Blue Light Ventures was in our studio. 

They are based in Tauranga and are actively seeking qualified motor vehicle drivers to 'mentor' young people, to gain their own driver's licence. 

The 'mentor" would be required to have a 'clean' licence and be able to devote one day a week for up to 6 months to instruct a teenager how to drive and pass their learner licence. 

The programme is aimed at preventing young un-licenced drivers from getting into cars and starting life with a convication, or worse, fleeing from police and crashing.

For further information go to www.bluelight.co.nz  

Constable Elliot Hira in our studio.

MORE HOURS OF NOSTALGIC MUSIC

From the 4th June Village Radio will be broadcasting from 8-00am in the morning instead of 10-00am.  This will be a trial period of 3 months. We need to know if you the listeners think we should continue with the early start. So please let us know either by ringing the studio (571-3710) or posting your approval on our Facebook Page.

Errol Hay will be broadcasting the first programme starting at 8-00am.  Errol has been a volunteer panel operater for a while but this will be his first as an announcer.

THE BACK PORCH INTERVIEWED

Brian Cotter spoke with Allie Curran on his Village People show on Saturday.  One day while practising, with husband Bruce, on the back porch at their Miner's cottage in Coromandel, they decided on the name for their duo band, Back Porch.

Allie plays Ukulele which she taught her self and also the Mouth-organ.  Bruce plays the guitar, he had a band that played in the Bars and Universty gigs around Dunedin and asked Allie to join him.

They moved to Wanganui and then the Coromandel where they lived in the Miner's Cottage. It was somewhat run down, which they renovated, and it even had a Goldmine on the property but unfortunately they never found any gold. After entertaning in the area for a while they moved to Tauranga which they love.  

Brian Cotter read an article about them and asked them to perform at Bayswater Retirement Village. They were soon involved in doing shows for other Retirement Villages, Clubs and Markets.

Most unusal gigs, Whangamomona Hotel on Republic Day where a man, on a horse, rode through the pub and a Sun Club where everything was "Most Natural" according to Allie!!!

CAROL STOREY - TORCH SINGER

Carol Storey is a Maori singer/songwriter and comes from Opotiki but lives in Tauranga. Carole has been entertaining for some years and is now the Music teacher at Tauranga Intermediate School.  A job she is passionate about.

The Torch Songs Band started in 1997 as a duo, Carol on vocals and Liam Ryan, piano. Over 12 years another 4 musicians joined the band, Grant Mason - trumpet, Dave Maybee - guitar, Wayne Melville - bass and Neil Reynolds - drums.  The band has many jazz and festival headline appearances and three albums to their credit.  

This Mother's Day, 12th May, they will appear at The Citz Club, Cameron Road from 5-00 pm to 8-00 pm admission $15. If you want to hear spellbounding moments, jazz, coupled with the flavours of world music and great musicianship this is the event for you.

FOR ONE DAY ONLY BONNIE LEONARD BORADCASTS

The popular ex broadcaster Bonnie Leonard did the Sunday morning show on 5th May.  Bonnie who now lives in Gore could not get away with coming to Tauranga without broadcasting for Village Radio and her many listeners.

She was interviewed on the phone by Brian Cotter on his "Village People" show on Saturday morning leading up to the Sunday show.

As you can see from the photo no sooner had she answered one phone when the other one rang!  She was kept busy talking with many of our listeners and playing their requests.  Unfortunately Bonnie only visits once a year to announce much to the disappointment of her 'fans'.

She was assisted during the broadcast by Kelvin Roach playing the vinyl records, Eileen Roach getting out the requests and Sheila Lacey answering the phones.

BAYSWATER RETIREMENT VILLAGE REMEMBERS

On the 25th April, ANZAC DAY, Bayswater Retirement Village remembered our gallant soldiers of the two World Wars, Vieitnam and Afghanistan who gave their lives so that we could live in peace.

The remembrance was in the form of a concert with songs and poems and our own Brian Cotter as Narrator. He used some of the equipment from our Museum including, a vintage 1939 microphone, a pair of 1920 old headphones  and a small xylophone, NZBC 1960 radio chimes used by commercial announcers in Napier.  

The photo shows Brian Cotter (far right) and the rest of the cast on stage.

VOLUNTEERS PHOTO OP

Nineteen of our 30 Volunteers got together for a 35th Anniversary photo shoot.  We are in Vintage Studio One at Village Radio.  

From left to right, Judith and Steve Lambie, Jim Brynes, Marion King, Graeme Millow, Errol Hay, Carole Marsden, Kelvin Roach, Neil Walsh, Brian Cotter, Brian Williams, George Stewart, Tony Rhind and Eileen Roach.

From left to right, Sheila Lacey, Shirley Hanly, Ken Wadsworth, Bonnie Cherrington and Peter Donnelly.

TAURANGA MAYOR HELPS US CELEBRATE 35 YEARS OF BROADCASTING

Our 35th Birthday Party was on Sunday 14th April (Actual day was 13th April). It was attended by around 80 Volunteers and Listeners and it was a huge success. 

One of our guests was Tauranga Mayor, Greg Brownless who gave a speech about his father being an avid Village Radio listener and the Mayor's involvement with us over the years.

During the party certificates for long service were presented by Chairman Steve Lambie to, Shirley Hanly, Bonnie Cherrington, Kelvin Roach, Sid Pavett, Sheila Lacey, Neil Walsh and with over 22 years Russ Bain.

The beautifully made cake was made by the daughter of Steve and Judith Lambie, in fact we were loathed to cut it up!!

The entertainment was Tauranga's Blaze who had everyone shouting for more. 

The photo shows The Mayor, Greg Brownless, Station Manager George Stewart and Announcer/Raffle winner Shirley Hanly.

BAY TIMES REPORTER JEAN BELL INTERVIEWS VILLAGE RADIO

Last Thursday (4th April) we had the pleasure of showing our Radio Station to a lovely reporter from the Bay Times, Jean Bell.  

Jean had come to talk to us about our celebrations to mark 35 years of broadcasting.  Our first broadcast being made on the 13th April 1984. We will be having a party on 14th April at Matua Bowling Club with entertainment by Blaze. 

Don't forget to check the Bay Times for Jean's article.

The photo is of Jean Bell with our announcer Brian Cotter.

WALES COMES TO VILLAGE RADIO

Visiting our studios on Friday was Kerry from Wales, UK.  Our announcer Jim Wood interviewed Kerry and found out that he had done several broadcasts with Kiwi announcers "spinning records".

Jim also got Kerry to announce some of the records being played during Jim's programme.

The photo is of Kerry at the mic.

JIM MUNRO, RE-INTERVIEWED

RARE LOUD SPEAKING TELEPHONE DONATED

HERALD DELIVERY BOY TO SIR JOHN ROWLES INTERVIEWED

NO 8 TOURS CO-OWNER IS OUR GUEST

LATEST GROUP STUDIO TOUR

SONGWRITER FROM CANADA VISITS OUR STUDIO

LT COMMANDER JERRY ANDERSON

ICON OF NEW ZEALAND MUSIC DIES

HISTORIAN BUDDY MIKAERE INTERVIEWED

HUMAN INSTINCT'S MAURICE GREER INTERVIEWED

MAYOR GREG BROWNLESS INTERVIEWED

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR

34TH CHRISTMAS PARTY

CRUISE SHIP VISITORS

VILLAGE RADIO'S A.G.M.

RADIO FERRYMEAD - MOVES INTO NEW BUILDING

INTERVIEW WITH FIDDLER MARIAN BURNS - MNZM

CRUISE SHIP PASSENGERS VISIT VILLAGE RADIO

TE PUKE STUDENTS VISIT OUR STATION

ON THE PHONE FROM BRISBANE - GLEN MOFFATT

THE STORY OF GATE PA

BAY OF PLENTY VINTAGE CAR CLUB

TRUST POWER COMMUNITY AWARD

BORN UNDER THE STARS

SPINE TINGLING VOICE OF CAITRIONA FALLON

TAURANGA'S RESCUE HELICOPTER

YOUNG ENTERPRISE SCHEME

TINA CROSS ON THE PHONE

HEATHER CHARLTON - EUROPEAN MUSICIAN

JEREMY GOODERS OF ST JOHN INTERVIEWED

2018 - MID YEAR XMAS FUNCTION

SANTIAGO REBAGLIATI - LATIN GUITARIST

NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK

SOLO BROADCAST BY STUDENT DANIEL TO COMPLETE 10 WEEK COURSE

WE ARE NOW ON FACEBOOK

MAY IS NEW ZEALAND MUSIC MONTH

RADIO HAURAKI'S GOOD GUY - IAN MAGAN

"HIS MIDGESTY"- MIDGE MARSDEN

BIG BAND LEADER, RODGER FOX

VILLAGE RADIO VISITS RADIO FERRYMEAD IN CHRISTCHURCH.

SUZANNE PRENTICE INTERVIEWED

LOST AND FOUND CONCERT

BENNY AWARD WINNER - KEVIN GREAVES INTERVIEWED

BONNIE'S BACK - BUT - - -

FRONT PAGE FOR VILLAGE RADIO APPEAL

VANCOUVER COUPLE VISIT OUR STUDIOS

INTERVIEW WITH PARABOLA WEST

OUR VOLUNTEERS CELEBRATE WAITANGI DAY

VIKING SUN PASSENGERS VISIT OUR STUDIOS

MUSICAL DIRECTOR - MURRAY MASON

ROTORUA VISITORS

A ROCKIN CHRISTMAS PARTY

MUSEUM ON VIEW

"A VOICE IN A MILLION" - EDDIE LOW

SHANE INTERVIEW

ROCK AND ROLL'S TOM SHARPLIN

JENNY ARGANTE, NEW ZEALAND AUTHOR

CELINE TONER ON THE PHONE

SUSANNE OF THE CHICKS INTERVIEWED

GRAHAM NEIL BARTLETT-MBE - WE KNOW HIM AS GRAY

INTERVIEW WITH JODI VAUGHAN

MARIA DALLAS TALKS FROM MAROOCHYDORE

ROY PHILLIPS OF PEDDLERS FAME INTERVIEWED

NEW TRANSMITTER = CLEARER RECEPTION

A SAD FAREWELL TO KEL RAINE AS HE RETIRES.

FAREWELL TO POPULAR ANNOUNCER - BONNIE LEONARD

OUR TECH TEAM HELPS TO MAKE AN HISTORIC BROADCAST

On the 5th January 2013 the 75 year old Collins Transmitter went on air without a hitch. The transmitter is only the second known to be operating in the world and was restored by our technicians at Village Radio, Russ Bain, George Stewart and Neil Walsh. (Please see photo).   It has been out of action for 13 years but has been painstakingly restored by the technicians and a grant from the Lotteries Commission.

Village Radio will continue to rely on it's more modern 1960's Toshiba value transmitter, leaving the Collins as a back-up and for special occasions.

.

From the left, George Stewart, Russ Bain & Neil Walsh

The Announcer for the day was Peter Shaw