ABC Radio's FM Transition: A New Chapter for Perth Listeners
The ABC's Perth radio stations are making a momentous shift from AM to FM, marking the end of an era for the iconic Hamersley transmitter. This transition, spanning 94 years, is a significant milestone for the city's radio landscape.
For Trevor Kelly, a veteran radio technician, this change brings back memories. He started his career in 1959, climbing the very mast in Hamersley that soon will no longer be the primary broadcast site for ABC Radio Perth, NewsRadio, and Radio National.
"It was a thrilling experience," Kelly recalls. "We climbed the mast, built in 1932, and learned how to avoid electrocution. It was a memorable day!"
The transition to FM is not just about nostalgia. It's a strategic move to enhance accessibility and sound quality. James Cridland, a radio futurist, explains, "FM allows more people to tune in, and the sound is clearer."
This shift aligns with global trends. Europe and Japan are phasing out AM, and the US is rapidly transitioning to FM. Crucially, FM improves car listening, a vital audience for radio.
BAI Communications' Tim Gray, who's worked with ABC for 40 years, is overseeing the FM mast setup at Bickley. He's excited about the upgrade, but also acknowledges the emotional connection to the Hamersley site.
"The Hamersley tower is a Perth landmark," Gray says. "But the FM transition is necessary."
NewsRadio, due to legislative requirements, will simulcast on both AM and FM until the law changes. Cridland notes the importance of AM in regional areas but emphasizes FM's dominance in cities.
"In cities, FM is the way to go," he says. "It's time for the ABC to embrace this change in all capital cities."
From February 23, ABC Radio Perth will broadcast on 102.5 FM, Radio National on 103.3 FM, and ABC NewsRadio on 104.1 FM. This transition is a significant step in the evolution of Perth's radio landscape, blending history with innovation.
