As well as being time for PBS Radio Festival, this week is also National Volunteer Week. PBS would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of the volunteers that dedicate so much time, energy and passion to the station, on and off the air, making PBS everything it can be.
There are over 400 volunteers involved at PBS, helping with everything from organising the music library, archiving, helping with events, building content for our online, to helping with accounts... so many things, and too many to name here. And of course everyone knows and loves the on air announcers who volunteer their time week in, week out to bring us the best in under-represented music - what an incredible contribution everyone makes. PBS couldn't do it without you.
Thank you all, from the bottom of PBS' heart.
Here are what a few PBS volunteers have to say about their experiences at PBS, and why they volunteer:
"I have been volunteering at PBS for 40 years . I can't imagine my life without PBS, it's been a huge part of my life from 1980 till now. I have met so many talented people at PBS over the years both in bands and in the wider music community here in Melbourne.
"To give back to the community is very rewarding. Helping new bands get airplay on PBS is something I always wanted to do right from the start. I wish PBS another 40 years of broadcasting excellent music and please support PBS during our Radio Festival this year."
The Prince of Darkness - Phil Macdougall host of Sunglasses After Dark.
"I’m a social media volunteer currently writing articles putting a spotlight on all the amazing work our volunteer announcers do. I volunteer at PBS because it’s such a central part of the Melbourne music community and everyone there is so passionate about getting great music out into the world.
"PBS and community radio are at the heart of music in Victoria and volunteering keeps that rolling along, particularly in times like these. PBS is such a welcoming space and has become a huge part of my life. It keeps me connected to the music scene and feeling involved in all the great things that are happening. There’s no better combo than friends and music!"
Eve Fraser - Social Media and Website.
"I’ve been volunteering at PBS for more than 15 years now. During those years, I’ve done all kinds of things, from answering phones at radio festival to tending bar, helping build our old website, being on the board, to being a mascot and getting punched by the Spazzies at Community Cup.
"I’m really passionate about music. Helping out at PBS allows me to support Melbourne’s musicians and the rest of that ecosystem. We’re so lucky here in Melbourne to have such a great music scene, and a number of really good community radio stations. I’m honoured to have a small part in the care and feeding of such an important part of Melbourne and Victoria.
"Right now, I’m privileged to lead a group of passionate volunteers on the PBS board as the station makes a move into our new home in Collingwood Yards. The PBS community is vibrant, evolving and super engaged - I’m so happy to be a part of it."
Jurgen Schaub - Chair of PBS Board.
