Denmark’s community radio station nominated for string of national awards

Denmark FM has been nominated for a string of Community Radio Awards after hitting the airwaves nearly a year ago. The community radio station has been nominated in four categories including outstanding small station, best new radio program, excellence in innovative programming and content, and contribution to Australian music. One of the radio shows that caught the judges’ ears eyes was Tyler on Air which features Denmark teenager Tyler Hartfield who is a non-verbal communicator living with cerebral palsy. Tyler curates song playlists and writes and records his own radio scripts in collaboration with station manager Matt Sivyer. The other notable radio programs were The Promiscuous Ear and Westside Mixtape. The annual awards ceremony aims to celebrates community radio stations across Australia in more than 30 categories. Station manager Matt Sivyer said he was “stoked” to discover the station was named a finalist in all four of the categories entered. “At the same time we are also incredibly proud of all the people who are involved with Denmark FM and volunteer their time to make it sound as good as it does,” he said. “There’s a lot of work behind the scenes to produce these shows and to have them recognised at a national level is exciting.” When asked which program he was most proud to see recognised on a national level scale, Mr Sivyer said it was like “asking which is your favourite child?” “I love them all for different reasons but I’m particularly excited that Tyler on Air was recognised for being such an innovative program and proud that Tyler’s talent has been acknowledged,” he said. “Westside Mixtape showcases the amazing WA music scene and we love the high quality music that you wouldn’t hear on many other stations.” Denmark FM went live in October 2021 after more than 20 years of community discussion. It will mark celebrate its first anniversary next month. Mr Sivyer said it had been a journey but he felt like the station had “found its rhythm”. “Before the launch we spent a lot of time training presenters and getting the technical side of things sorted and it has absolutely paid dividends,” he said. “We’ve had great feedback from the community and the general consensus is that people who listen to Denmark FM are feeling more connected with Denmark and what’s happening which is fantastic. “We’ve got more presenters being trained and new shows on the cusp of going to air, so it feels like we’re still growing and evolving and if we can be recognised with a national award it would be the icing on the birthday cake.” The award The winners will be announced at the CBAA conference in Cairns from October 27-29.