News
Let’s Talk 17th May : Broadcast of the National Congress of Australia’s First Peoples Forum
Tune in to Let’s Talk tomorrow at 9am to hear the forum held in Brisbane on Constitutional reform presented by the National Congress of Australia’s First Peoples and 98.9fm. Forum speakers are the Congress co-chairs Les Malezer and Jody Broun and community members Lilla Watson and Mary Graham.
Radio Maroon 98.9FM back for second year
CALL the lawyers, sensitive Sydney, because Radio Maroon is back for another State of Origin series.
The rebel commentary team made for Queenslanders will return again next week when the Maroons begin their charge for a seventh consecutive Origin series win.
The Courier-Mail and 98.9FM – part of the National Indigenous Radio Service – have again combined to bring together the only commentary team free of the desperate cheerleaders who can’t hide their NSW feelings.
And, this year, Radio Maroon will call every game of the Origin series, with the NIRS carrying the unauthorised call to many parts of the state and online through couriermail.com.au and the 98.9FM website.
The commentary team will again be headed by experienced Channel 10 newsreader and sportscaller Bill McDonald and will feature former Origin players Steve Renouf, Adrian Lam and Paul Green.
The team will also be joined by respected indigenous rugby league commentator Hal Walsh, who will provide special comments.
Radio Maroon was formed for last year’s decider as an alternative to the Channel 9, ABC Radio and 2GB call teams which were stacked with NSW commentators.
“Our readers spoke very strongly last year – they were sick of the Blues fans disguised as commentators,” The Courier-Mail editor Michael Crutcher said.
“It gave Queenslanders the chance to turn down the volume on their TVs and turn up the radio to hear a call seen through Maroon eyes. But we had to fend off the lawyers last year. I expect that will happen again this year.”
On the day of last year’s decider, Sydney radio station owner Fairfax flew lawyers to Brisbane in a bid to block Radio Maroon.
But the legal challenge fizzled when Fairfax’s lawyers walked away minutes before their application was to be heard by a judge.
“That showed the NSW mindset – these blokes were going to walk into a Queensland courtroom, in front of a Queensland judge, on the day of the Origin decider to get Radio Maroon banned,” 98.9 spokesman Tiga Bayles said.
“In the end, even they realised it was hopeless.”
Turn up Radio Maroon next Wednesday night. Tune in from 7.30pm on 98.9FM Brisbane
Courier Mail 14th May 2012
Bill Chambers pops by
Bill visited the studios for a chat and a song. Bill is playing shows around Sth East QLD over the weekend with Seleen McAlister. Check the gig guide in “Community” for dates.
Album of the Week : Christie Lamb
Christie Lamb “Mr Wrong”
Christie is a high energy, passionate performer with a uniquely strong and ‘earthy’ style. At the tender age of 19, Christie has achieved an astonishing amount and counts graduating from both the 2010 Talent Development Project and the CMAA Senior Academy of Country Music among the highlights so far. In October 2010, Christie was the only singer in NSW to enter the National Mentoring Project entitled “JUMP” for young and emerging artists. Consequently, Christie has worked with and been mentored by GINA JEFFREYS and ROD McCORMACK for the past 12 months. Mr Wrong is the first single from Christie’s debut EP which is scheduled for release this month. Co-written with JAY COLLIE and JASPER SOMERVILLE-COLLIE, Mr Wrong is a tongue-in-cheek take on failed relationships. Christie Lamb is a welcome breath of fresh air in today’s modern Country Music Industry – a young, talented singer/songwriter with her feet firmly planted in tradition.
Christie’s new EP is available now at http://www.christielamb.com/
“Julia” now a Podcast
You can now listen to all your favourite “Julia” episodes on the Podcast page, in ‘Programs’
Vale Jimmy Little
Proud Yorta Yorta man, Jimmy Little has passed away at the age of 75. Jimmy was born on the Cummeragunja Mission on the Murray River, New South Wales on the 1st of March 1937. In 1955 moved to Sydney to start his music career. His first single, “Mysteries of Life”/”Heartbreak Waltz,” was released in 1956, but his first hit did not come until 1959 with “Danny Boy,” which peaked at number nine in Sydney. It was 1964 when Little got his first number 1 hit, “Royal Telephone” which went Gold twice and has sold more than 75,000 copies, from this number 1 hit, Jimmy was named “Australian Pop Star of the Year”.
In the late 70’s Jimmy turned to full-time acting starring in various theatre productions and films, making his debut on stage in “Black Cockatoos”. Little also appeared in the film “Until the End of the World” and an Opera “Black River”.
Jimmy Little taught and mentored Indigenous music students at the Eora Centre in Redfern from 1985 and was an ambassador for literacy and numeracy for the Department of Education from 2002. In 2006, Jimmy founded the “Jimmy Little Foundation” to improve renal health across Indigenous communities in regional and remote Australia.
In 2004 he was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia, was named a Living National Treasure and was awarded an honorary doctorate in music in recognition of “contribution to reconciliation between indigenous and non-indigenous Australians”.
Along with these Prestigious awards, Jimmy Little has a collection of many awards including;
- Red Ochre Award
- Tamworth Role of Renown
- ARIA Hall of Fame
- 2x Deadly Awards
- APRA Ted Albert Award
- Golden Gospel Award
- NAIDOC “Aboriginal of the Year”
In 2011 Jimmy received his first Golden Guitar “Lifetime Achievement Award”.
Jimmy Little will be sadly missed by everybody in the Community.
Album Of the Week : Lance Friend
Lance Friend “The Album”
Lance has been heard on country radio since 2004 with songs including “Just met an angel”, Don’t ring this ringer” and “Longreach sky reaching great success on radio charts throughout Australia with his band “Friends in No Places”.
After four and a half years in the making,Lance Friend has finally released,,THE ALBUM
Also featuring the hit songs The Condamine and If I had a Wish. These 13 brilliantly produced tracks showcase the star quality of
singer,songwriter Lance Friend.If you only buy one album for 2012. Make sure it’s THE ALBUM
‘The Album’ by Lance Friend is available now: http://www.lancefriend.com/
Wanna see the video?
Donate now and help find a cure for Type 1 diabetes. As soon as we hit $1000 you’ll see the footage of Dan and Gilly’s jump for life! Every cent counts. http://fundraise.teamcurediabetes.org.au/team989fm
Jump to Cure Diabetes
Our very own Dan Rennie and Gilbert McAdam will be jumping to help improve lives and cure Type 1 Diabetes for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).
The mission of JDRF is to find a cure for type 1 diabetes and its complications through the support of research.
JDRF is the largest non-government funder of type 1 diabetes research in the world.
Please help support, by clicking here and making a donation.
Album of the Week : Amber Lawrence
‘3’, with its mixture of upbeat optimism, personal happiness and resilience along with some references to deeper issues including courage in the face of hardship, is another step upward on a sharply-angled career path that has seen Amber delight audiences all over the country.
Her own experiences of life’s upheavals, including the death of her father, becoming an aunt to her sister’s two children and lost loves and the pursuit of new ones, have broadened Amber’s musical experiences and her maturity shows on ‘3’. Throw in Amber’s early experience of being dumped by a boyfriend who had given her a guitar so she could learn to play and boost her career and you get some idea of what ironies shape her lyrics.
Adding to her already glittering career lustre is Amber’s insightful skill to write one and co-write the other 12 songs on the album with some of the best known lyricists in country music, including award winner Colin Buchanan, Mike Carr, who wrote song of the year ‘Real People’ for Melinda Schneider, Sam Hawksley, Paul Greene, Suzy Connolly and Golden Guitar winning producer Rod McCormack, whose professionally deft touch in the studio is behind the unique sound.
Amber has also teamed up with Album of the Year winner Adam Harvey, who brings his honeyed voice to track 6 ‘The Peace I Keep.’
Also joining Amber for a duet on the album is ex-Australian Idol finalist and Home and Away star – Axle Whitehead. Axle’s smoky vocals are a perfect fit for Amber’s on the sexy track 9 ‘My Attraction’.
‘3’ was released through Core Music and Sony Music Australia on January 20.
Get your copy of ‘3’ at http://www.sanity.com.au/products/2206580/3
Album of the Week : Troy Cassar-Daley
Troy Cassar-Daley “Home”
Troy’s brand new album, “Home”, features 13 new tracks including the first single, currently number 1 on the 98.9fm All Australian Top 20 Country Countdown, “Country Is”. Troy’s 8th studio recorded album was recorded whilst he was in Nashville. Troy is currently travelling around Australia to promote the upcoming Aussie Tour for the new album.
“Home” is Available March 2nd.
Album of the Week : Dave Roberts
Dave Roberts “Cold Light of Day”
Dave’s second independent release.
Two years construction of classic lifestyle tales.
A former QRA album of the year winner, his latest work is an eclectic array of musicianship and experiences which have combined and can be heard in the first single release
” Blood On The Moon”
a true story about never losing sight of your dream no matter what events may occur that try to knock you off your path.
The follow up is a hard edged true story about a mate. No matter how much you care for someone eventually there comes a time when you have to let go. This is the album title track
“The Cold Light Of day”
with his hard edged vocals and crying harmonies, the full wall of guitars and haunting flute solo will take you on the journey, you can feel the pain.
There are 13 tracks on the album each with their own individual storytelling and performance.
Dave’s song writing style is wide and varied and this is apparent with this the album.
Their are songs to sing around the barby, like a little ditty called “The Long Weekend”and songs the reflect hardship and tragedy like the soaring ballad “ Hero”.
Truly a startling “Australian” songwriter and performer
Get your copy from http://www.daveroberts.com.au or phone 0418 322 351
Album of the Week: Paul Seils
Paul Seils “My Kind of Country”
Queensland Country balladeer and singer/songwriter PAUL SEILS is very excited about his newly released debut CD My Kind of Country, recently produced and recorded by GREG WILLIAMS at Tamworth Recording Suite.
Planning started after Paul “discovered” Greg’s studio at the 2010 Tamworth Country Music Festival, and recording was slotted around Paul’s 2010 overseas trips which took him all over USA and Europe. While Paul traveled, Greg built the 12 album tracks, using other fine session musicians like Brett Dallas, Mark Moulynox, Shaza Leigh, Lawrie Minson, Hugh Curtis, Peg Gilchrist, and legendary guitarist Lindsay Butler.
As well as the first radio single South Australian Opal, there are several of Paul’s originals featured on the album, complemented by favourite cover songs, and another great song written by country legend LEE CONWAY.
Live Broadcast Tuesday 14th February
Listen to Jamie, Ian and Gilly, on the Breakfast Show, at the Ipswich Library, South Street, Ipswich, Tuesday 14th February 2012.
The Breakfast Show will be broadcasting live to help celebrate the National Year of Reading.
Library doors open 8:00am.
Free BBQ Breakfest and live entertainment from 7:00am.
Album of the Week : John Williamson
John Williamson “Big Red”
Released through his recent signing with Warner Music Australia, the album is reflective of the multi-award winning artist’s passion for his craft. It reminds all as to why he has remained a success for more than forty years, with tracks on the CD sure to become favourites for all Australians domestically or a treasured keepsake for those overseas.
The first single ‘Hang My Hat In Queensland’ is pure poetry; an autobiographical account of Williamson’s life. Everything from his birth in the Mallee district of Victoria through to moving to Sydney from his family’s farm in Moree after winning television’s ‘New Faces’ with his song ‘Old Man Emu’. The lyrics encapsulate his story in music.
Never one to shy away from his truth, Williamson follows it up with ‘Movie Star’, a song paying tribute to those who have succeeded but feel they have never reached what they consider the top. ‘Rescue Me’ simply touches the heart and is a piece of perfection that will resonate and bring tears to the eyes of many.
Add to this ‘Mates Around The Fire’ which will appeal to all who identify with Williamson’s recurring theme of mateship mixed with the outback. ‘The Weight Of A Man’, is a song written by Russell Crowe that Williamson has made his own, whilst showcasing the musicality of the Hollywood superstar.
There are twelve tracks on this release, not one that doesn’t stand up to the quality that the iconic songwriter is known for. Each one is crafted perfectly and sure to become chants, wedding first dance tracks or songs to belt out amongst friends and family around the fire, lounge room or penthouse apartment. That’s the thing about Williamson; he doesn’t fit one genre or style. He is for all Australians and The Big Red backs this up with his unique ability to paint the country and Australian style and character onto a canvas of song like no other.
Get your copy from http://www.malleeboy.com or phone 02 9279 4454
Album of the Week : Harmony James
Harmony James – Handfuls of Sky
Its Harmony’s second album, being released this week at the Tamworth Country Music Festival. With a spectacular mix of bluegrass, traditional and modern country this is an album you wont want to take out of the player! Harmony’s beautiful voice combined with amazing musicians and also guest artists including Shane Nicholson, Troy Cassar-Daley, Bill Chambers and more. The album also features the 2 smashing singles heard on the 98.9fm All Aussie Top 20, “Don’t Say It” and “Pride”
Get your copy now!
40th Anniversary Tent Embassy
27th January 1972 saw the first tent go up on the lawn in front of Parliament House in response to the McMahon coalition government’s refusal to recognise Aboriginal Land Rights. Indigenous and non-Indigenous supporters came from all over Australia to join the protest. Within the first 6 months, the Embassy succeeded in uniting First Nations people throughout Australia in demanding uniform National Land Rights.
40 years on and the First Nations people of Australia are still fighting for Land Rights.
On the 26th January 2012 marks the 40th anniversary of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy, there will be a “Corroboree for Sovereignty” held on the lawns of Old Parliament House, King Geroge Tce Parkes, Canberra.
Live Broadcast from the Lawns can be heard on ‘Let’s Talk’ on 98.9fm from Wednesday 25th to Friday 27th January 9:00am to 11:00am EST
Summer lineup on 98.9FM
As our regular presenters take a well-earned break you can still catch great country here on 98.9FM.
All Australian Top 20 presenter Hayley-Belle Scott hosts breakfast from the 3 – 6 January. Regular Drive presenter Dan Rennie takes over the breakfast slot from the 9 – 21 January while Luke Peacock keeps Drive going until Dan’s return.
Our breakfast trio of Jamie, Ian and Gilly are back on Monday 23 January along with Let’s Talk host Tiga Bayles. Be sure to tune in to his special broadcast from Canberra to mark the 40th anniversary of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy on January 26.
Also returning this Sunday Bush Breakfast with Pixie Jenkins and the Shout Out Show with Uncle Peter Hill. Josh Williams and Jarrod Forgarty are back next Monday hosting Hot Country and Nights with Jarrod.
Album of the Week : Paddy McHugh & The Goldminers
Paddy is a young, talented and original singer/songwriter. Raised in Tamworth, Paddy naturally took up country music and today writes songs of his experience as a professional rambling musician. If you like your music with integrity, imagination and class, go no further than Paddy McHugh and his trusty band, The Goldminers.
For a FREE download of the album head to the website.
Wheels for Justin
Nineteen year-old, Justin Jackson , has been on crutches almost his entire life due to cerebral palsy. Keen to assert his independence and to attend university, Justin needed a specialised wheelchair to get around, which was unfortunately out of his budget.
98.9FM listeners and Wyatt Roy, Member for Longman, decided to help and managed to raise $5600 for Justin’s long-awaited wheelchair.
Image courtesy of Wyatt Roy, MP.
98.9fm Listeners donate for the PA Spinal Unit
The Sunnybank Lions club joined with 98.9fm to collect DVD’s for the patients at the Princess Alexandra Hospital Spinal Unit and the Brekky Team visited the unit on Wednesday to present the donations. In one week, over 200 DVD’s and video games were donated by listeners and members of the community. Head Nurse, Ben Hackwood says “after 4pm the patients don’t have much to, so DVD’s, video games and television keeps them entertained”.
The Spinal Unit are always open for donations, Portable DVD players are a great donation as a lot of the patients are bed ridden and don’t always have their own TV.
Contact for Donations
Ben Hackwood 07 3176 2797
Spinal Injuries Unit
Princess Alexandra Hospital
Ipswich Road
WOOLLOONGABBA QLD 4102
Paddy does Christmas
Local Brisbane singer/songwriter Paddy McHugh performs a Christmas song on the Drive Show with Dan today from 5pm. Tune in!
Troy Stops By!
Fresh from another trip to Nashville, where he is recording his forthcoming album “Home” (due out March 2012), Troy Cassar-Daley came in for a chat on the Drive Show with Dan to give us a little taste of what’s to come! Too Deadly!
65 years later, still waiting to be paid
Paul and Arthur Ah Wang are 76 years old and they are angry.
From age 13 the brothers worked side-by-side on a pearling lugger off Mackay, free diving to collect pearl shell and doing deckhand duties. It was dangerous work, and if they misbehaved they were often sent below decks to bed without dinner.
Both brothers claimed for their stolen wages under the Beattie government’s $54M reparations package for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders wages and pensions which were controlled by government. In a bizarre twist, Paul received just $3000 for his years of work and labour, while Arthur application was rejected due to insufficient documentary evidence.
Along with Ron Monaghan from the QCU, they met with the Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, Curtis Pitt, to seek stolen wages justice.
They spoke with Tiga on ‘Let’s Talk’ directly after this meeting. Listen to the podcast below.
Podcast: Play in new window
Public Memorial for Artie Beetson
A public memorial service will be held on Sunday to farewell the footy legend. A permanent bronze statue will be placed along side Wally Lewis in Lang Park, in honor of one of the seven “Rugby League Immortals”
Date: Sunday 18th December, 12noon
Location: Suncorp Stadium
Farewell Artie, you legend!
Arthur Henry “Artie” Beetson OAM January 22, 1945 – December 1, 2011
Queenslanders are mourning the loss of rugby league legend, Artie Beetson, who died of a heart attack on the Gold Coast this morning.
Beetson captained the first Queensland State of Origin team in 1980. He also coached the side to four series wins in 1982, 1983, 1984 and 1989.
His football career began in Redcliffe after he left his hometown of Roma to play in the Brisbane Rugby League competition.
He moved to Sydney and joined Balmain Tigers in the New South Wales Rugby Football League competition. During his 4-year stint with the Tigers, Beetson made his representative debut for Australia against England where he earned the nickname “half game Artie” for the 40 minutes of mayhem he caused the opposition.
Beetson also played for English rugby league side Hull before joining Eastern Suburbs (1971-1978) where he captained the team in their 1974 and 1975 premierships. He also coached in the late 70s, mid 80s and in 1994.
In the final years of his playing career, Big Artie spent two years with Parramatta before re-joining his old club, the Dolphins, in Redcliffe.
Other notable achievements include:
- The first Aboriginal person to be named captain of any Australian national sporting team
- 29 Test and World Cup caps
- OAM recognising his service to the sport of rugby league
- Named in Australian rugby league’s 100 greatest players
- Named in the Australian rugby league team of the century
- Named in the Queensland rugby league team of the century
- Named in Indigenous Australian rugby league team of the century
- Awarded Clive Churchill Medal retrospectively as Man of the Match in the 1974 grand final
- Recruitment officer for Eastern Suburbs (Sydney Roosters) and Queensland
Dan Rennie caught up with the legend this year ahead of the third game in the 2011 State of Origin in Brisbane. They spoke about his family and about his first State of Origin game. Listen to the interview.
From all the board and staff at 98.9fm and the Brisbane Indigenous Media Association our sincere condolences to the family, relatives and friends of Artie Beetson.
Thank you for the memories and for your outstanding contribution to rugby league and to First Nations people of Australia.
May he rest in peace.
To leave a message for the Beetson family or to share your thoughts about “Artie” visit our Facebook page.
Premier opens media centre
In front of more than 100 guests, friends and staff, Queensland Premier Anna Bligh opened the Brisbane Indigenous Media Association’s Multimedia Centre on Friday.
One of the many highlights of the event was Kev Carmody and Pixie Jenkins performing, “From Little Things Big Things Grow”.
Brisbane Indigenous Media Association (BIMA) CEO Tiga Bayles said the song was appropriate.
“We began broadcasting in 1984 with the Murri Hour on Triple Z and now we have opened our very own Centre with 30 full time staff and over 200,000 listeners,” he said.
“It was an auspicious occasion for all our staff and the Board and a great celebration for First Nations peoples.
“The Centre represents all that is important to First Nations peoples – the radio station gives a voice to Aboriginal perspectives on a range of matters from topical issues of the day through programs such as ‘Lets Talk’, to sharing our culture through music which includes country and Indigenous as history and story telling.
“We also provide an essential service in broadcasting key information for First Nations people in areas such as health and the law.
“And, of course, we broadcast the AFL!
“It is fitting that we also have grown from humble beginnings to owning a facility in our own right that will enable us to continue to give a voice, training and employment opportunities to First Nations Peoples.”
Newly elected BIMA President Col Dillon said Aboriginal people throughout the state could now enjoy the benefits of a state-of-the-art facility, purpose built to train young people in radio and television broadcasting.
“This investment not only supports our capacity to broadcast using state of the art equipment but more importantly provides real live training and skilling, through Triple A Training, to both Indigenous and non-indigenous peoples in a critical industry in today’s society,” Mr Dillon said.
“The funding enabled us to transform the old Armaguard building which for a period of time provided space for members of ProppaNOW, a groundbreaking group of Urban Aboriginal artists including Tony Albert, Richard Bell, Vernon Ah Kee and Laurie Nilsen, whose work is represented in the building – these artists have now reached international status.
“We would not be standing here today if it were not for the funding support we received from the Indigenous Land Corporation (ILC) and the Queensland and Australian Governments.
“The ILC provided $3.5 million, while the Australian Government provided funding of $3.2M and the Queensland Government contributing $4.2 million.”
First Use of Recording Studio
The Pigs drop in…
To perform live on the Brekkie show and break in our new recording studio.
98.9fm welcomes a fiddling new member to the family!
Pixie Jenkins, Australia’s best fiddler and all-round funny man, is the new voice of Sunday’s “Bush Brekky” Show.
With 40 years industry experience behind him Pixie melds Australian country music, comedy and theatre into his performances. Pixie has played for, supported and recorded with artists such as; Chad Morgan, John Williamson, Buddy Williams, Charlie Pride, Warren H Williams, Bob Dylan and Cher – just to name a few. He’s won five Golden Guitars and is an inductee of Country Music Hands of Fame.
Pixie’s charasmatic and cheeky nature will shine!
Join Pixie from 6am each Sunday for a morning of fun, frivolity, bush yarns, poetry and interviews - and if we’re lucky he’ll pick up his fiddle every now and again.
For more info on Pixie check out www.pixiejenkins.com Follow on Twitter @pixiejenkin.
Celebrating the Coming of Age in a New Home
BIMA has moved into our brand new Multi-Media Skills Centre. Located at 2 Ambleside St, West End, the building holds 4 digital radio studios, a multi-track recording studio and a TV studio equipped with all the latest and best technology. The completion of the new station falls on the 18th birthday of the Brisbane Indigenous Media Association which was founded on April 6, 1993.
Lookin’ For a Good Time? Muster ’11 on 989
98.9fm is once again the Official Muster Radio for the 2011 Gympie Muster, come down to the 989HQ, say G’day to the mob and grab yourself a 989 Muster Collectors T-Shirt!
WIN Brisbane Lions Tickets
Tune in to the Brekky show for your chance to win Lions home game tickets!
Album of the Week – Adam Brand
Adam Brands new album “Rev Head” is released 12 tracks with some of his greatest hits and brand new songs. Available now!
Block Training a Success
Over 3 weeks in May, 50 students from school-aged to adults visited the training centre to participate in Triple A Trainings’ annual Block Training to achieve competencies towards Certificate III & IV in Media and Broadcast Technology. Travelling from, Weipa, Kowanyama, Wujal Wujal, Hopevale, Palm Island, Townsville, Rockhampton, Cairns and Mount Isa, the mob participated in daily radio operations, on-air programs, editing, recording and mixing sound, wiring and video camera recording and editing.
The regional group went to Stylin’ Up and recorded interviews and video recording with performers and local Edlers to take back and play on their own radio stations. One group were lucky enough to be in the training centre at the same time Troy Cassar-Daley was visiting for an interview. Troy sat down and had chat with the group and shared some advice and encouragement of his own.
Overall there were 11 certificate II’s, 15 certificate III’s and 5 certificate IV’s awarded, another great ending to a round of Block Training.
Damien Saul – Old Man (live)
Damien Saul has performed over the last decade throughout Australia and is based in Brisbane. His songwriting is poetic and Continue reading →
Corn Liquor – Nightime Road (live)
The Boys from Corn Liquor performing live in the studio’s of 98.9fm Brisbane!
Let’s Talk 17th May : Broadcast of the National Congress of Australia’s First Peoples Forum
Tune in to Let’s Talk tomorrow at 9am to hear the forum held in Brisbane on Constitutional reform presented by the National Congress of Australia’s First Peoples and 98.9fm. Forum speakers are the Congress co-chairs Les Malezer and Jody Broun and community members Lilla Watson and Mary Graham.
Radio Maroon 98.9FM back for second year
CALL the lawyers, sensitive Sydney, because Radio Maroon is back for another State of Origin series.
The rebel commentary team made for Queenslanders will return again next week when the Maroons begin their charge for a seventh consecutive Origin series win.
The Courier-Mail and 98.9FM – part of the National Indigenous Radio Service – have again combined to bring together the only commentary team free of the desperate cheerleaders who can’t hide their NSW feelings.
And, this year, Radio Maroon will call every game of the Origin series, with the NIRS carrying the unauthorised call to many parts of the state and online through couriermail.com.au and the 98.9FM website.
The commentary team will again be headed by experienced Channel 10 newsreader and sportscaller Bill McDonald and will feature former Origin players Steve Renouf, Adrian Lam and Paul Green.
The team will also be joined by respected indigenous rugby league commentator Hal Walsh, who will provide special comments.
Radio Maroon was formed for last year’s decider as an alternative to the Channel 9, ABC Radio and 2GB call teams which were stacked with NSW commentators.
“Our readers spoke very strongly last year – they were sick of the Blues fans disguised as commentators,” The Courier-Mail editor Michael Crutcher said.
“It gave Queenslanders the chance to turn down the volume on their TVs and turn up the radio to hear a call seen through Maroon eyes. But we had to fend off the lawyers last year. I expect that will happen again this year.”
On the day of last year’s decider, Sydney radio station owner Fairfax flew lawyers to Brisbane in a bid to block Radio Maroon.
But the legal challenge fizzled when Fairfax’s lawyers walked away minutes before their application was to be heard by a judge.
“That showed the NSW mindset – these blokes were going to walk into a Queensland courtroom, in front of a Queensland judge, on the day of the Origin decider to get Radio Maroon banned,” 98.9 spokesman Tiga Bayles said.
“In the end, even they realised it was hopeless.”
Turn up Radio Maroon next Wednesday night. Tune in from 7.30pm on 98.9FM Brisbane
Courier Mail 14th May 2012
Bill Chambers pops by
Bill visited the studios for a chat and a song. Bill is playing shows around Sth East QLD over the weekend with Seleen McAlister. Check the gig guide in “Community” for dates.
Album of the Week : Christie Lamb
Christie Lamb “Mr Wrong”
Christie is a high energy, passionate performer with a uniquely strong and ‘earthy’ style. At the tender age of 19, Christie has achieved an astonishing amount and counts graduating from both the 2010 Talent Development Project and the CMAA Senior Academy of Country Music among the highlights so far. In October 2010, Christie was the only singer in NSW to enter the National Mentoring Project entitled “JUMP” for young and emerging artists. Consequently, Christie has worked with and been mentored by GINA JEFFREYS and ROD McCORMACK for the past 12 months. Mr Wrong is the first single from Christie’s debut EP which is scheduled for release this month. Co-written with JAY COLLIE and JASPER SOMERVILLE-COLLIE, Mr Wrong is a tongue-in-cheek take on failed relationships. Christie Lamb is a welcome breath of fresh air in today’s modern Country Music Industry – a young, talented singer/songwriter with her feet firmly planted in tradition.
Christie’s new EP is available now at http://www.christielamb.com/
“Julia” now a Podcast
You can now listen to all your favourite “Julia” episodes on the Podcast page, in ‘Programs’
Vale Jimmy Little
Proud Yorta Yorta man, Jimmy Little has passed away at the age of 75. Jimmy was born on the Cummeragunja Mission on the Murray River, New South Wales on the 1st of March 1937. In 1955 moved to Sydney to start his music career. His first single, “Mysteries of Life”/”Heartbreak Waltz,” was released in 1956, but his first hit did not come until 1959 with “Danny Boy,” which peaked at number nine in Sydney. It was 1964 when Little got his first number 1 hit, “Royal Telephone” which went Gold twice and has sold more than 75,000 copies, from this number 1 hit, Jimmy was named “Australian Pop Star of the Year”.
In the late 70’s Jimmy turned to full-time acting starring in various theatre productions and films, making his debut on stage in “Black Cockatoos”. Little also appeared in the film “Until the End of the World” and an Opera “Black River”.
Jimmy Little taught and mentored Indigenous music students at the Eora Centre in Redfern from 1985 and was an ambassador for literacy and numeracy for the Department of Education from 2002. In 2006, Jimmy founded the “Jimmy Little Foundation” to improve renal health across Indigenous communities in regional and remote Australia.
In 2004 he was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia, was named a Living National Treasure and was awarded an honorary doctorate in music in recognition of “contribution to reconciliation between indigenous and non-indigenous Australians”.
Along with these Prestigious awards, Jimmy Little has a collection of many awards including;
- Red Ochre Award
- Tamworth Role of Renown
- ARIA Hall of Fame
- 2x Deadly Awards
- APRA Ted Albert Award
- Golden Gospel Award
- NAIDOC “Aboriginal of the Year”
In 2011 Jimmy received his first Golden Guitar “Lifetime Achievement Award”.
Jimmy Little will be sadly missed by everybody in the Community.
Album Of the Week : Lance Friend
Lance Friend “The Album”
Lance has been heard on country radio since 2004 with songs including “Just met an angel”, Don’t ring this ringer” and “Longreach sky reaching great success on radio charts throughout Australia with his band “Friends in No Places”.
After four and a half years in the making,Lance Friend has finally released,,THE ALBUM
Also featuring the hit songs The Condamine and If I had a Wish. These 13 brilliantly produced tracks showcase the star quality of
singer,songwriter Lance Friend.If you only buy one album for 2012. Make sure it’s THE ALBUM
‘The Album’ by Lance Friend is available now: http://www.lancefriend.com/
Wanna see the video?
Donate now and help find a cure for Type 1 diabetes. As soon as we hit $1000 you’ll see the footage of Dan and Gilly’s jump for life! Every cent counts. http://fundraise.teamcurediabetes.org.au/team989fm
Jump to Cure Diabetes
Our very own Dan Rennie and Gilbert McAdam will be jumping to help improve lives and cure Type 1 Diabetes for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).
The mission of JDRF is to find a cure for type 1 diabetes and its complications through the support of research.
JDRF is the largest non-government funder of type 1 diabetes research in the world.
Please help support, by clicking here and making a donation.
Album of the Week : Amber Lawrence
‘3’, with its mixture of upbeat optimism, personal happiness and resilience along with some references to deeper issues including courage in the face of hardship, is another step upward on a sharply-angled career path that has seen Amber delight audiences all over the country.
Her own experiences of life’s upheavals, including the death of her father, becoming an aunt to her sister’s two children and lost loves and the pursuit of new ones, have broadened Amber’s musical experiences and her maturity shows on ‘3’. Throw in Amber’s early experience of being dumped by a boyfriend who had given her a guitar so she could learn to play and boost her career and you get some idea of what ironies shape her lyrics.
Adding to her already glittering career lustre is Amber’s insightful skill to write one and co-write the other 12 songs on the album with some of the best known lyricists in country music, including award winner Colin Buchanan, Mike Carr, who wrote song of the year ‘Real People’ for Melinda Schneider, Sam Hawksley, Paul Greene, Suzy Connolly and Golden Guitar winning producer Rod McCormack, whose professionally deft touch in the studio is behind the unique sound.
Amber has also teamed up with Album of the Year winner Adam Harvey, who brings his honeyed voice to track 6 ‘The Peace I Keep.’
Also joining Amber for a duet on the album is ex-Australian Idol finalist and Home and Away star – Axle Whitehead. Axle’s smoky vocals are a perfect fit for Amber’s on the sexy track 9 ‘My Attraction’.
‘3’ was released through Core Music and Sony Music Australia on January 20.
Get your copy of ‘3’ at http://www.sanity.com.au/products/2206580/3
Album of the Week : Troy Cassar-Daley
Troy Cassar-Daley “Home”
Troy’s brand new album, “Home”, features 13 new tracks including the first single, currently number 1 on the 98.9fm All Australian Top 20 Country Countdown, “Country Is”. Troy’s 8th studio recorded album was recorded whilst he was in Nashville. Troy is currently travelling around Australia to promote the upcoming Aussie Tour for the new album.
“Home” is Available March 2nd.
Album of the Week : Dave Roberts
Dave Roberts “Cold Light of Day”
Dave’s second independent release.
Two years construction of classic lifestyle tales.
A former QRA album of the year winner, his latest work is an eclectic array of musicianship and experiences which have combined and can be heard in the first single release
” Blood On The Moon”
a true story about never losing sight of your dream no matter what events may occur that try to knock you off your path.
The follow up is a hard edged true story about a mate. No matter how much you care for someone eventually there comes a time when you have to let go. This is the album title track
“The Cold Light Of day”
with his hard edged vocals and crying harmonies, the full wall of guitars and haunting flute solo will take you on the journey, you can feel the pain.
There are 13 tracks on the album each with their own individual storytelling and performance.
Dave’s song writing style is wide and varied and this is apparent with this the album.
Their are songs to sing around the barby, like a little ditty called “The Long Weekend”and songs the reflect hardship and tragedy like the soaring ballad “ Hero”.
Truly a startling “Australian” songwriter and performer
Get your copy from http://www.daveroberts.com.au or phone 0418 322 351
Album of the Week: Paul Seils
Paul Seils “My Kind of Country”
Queensland Country balladeer and singer/songwriter PAUL SEILS is very excited about his newly released debut CD My Kind of Country, recently produced and recorded by GREG WILLIAMS at Tamworth Recording Suite.
Planning started after Paul “discovered” Greg’s studio at the 2010 Tamworth Country Music Festival, and recording was slotted around Paul’s 2010 overseas trips which took him all over USA and Europe. While Paul traveled, Greg built the 12 album tracks, using other fine session musicians like Brett Dallas, Mark Moulynox, Shaza Leigh, Lawrie Minson, Hugh Curtis, Peg Gilchrist, and legendary guitarist Lindsay Butler.
As well as the first radio single South Australian Opal, there are several of Paul’s originals featured on the album, complemented by favourite cover songs, and another great song written by country legend LEE CONWAY.
Live Broadcast Tuesday 14th February
Listen to Jamie, Ian and Gilly, on the Breakfast Show, at the Ipswich Library, South Street, Ipswich, Tuesday 14th February 2012.
The Breakfast Show will be broadcasting live to help celebrate the National Year of Reading.
Library doors open 8:00am.
Free BBQ Breakfest and live entertainment from 7:00am.
Album of the Week : John Williamson
John Williamson “Big Red”
Released through his recent signing with Warner Music Australia, the album is reflective of the multi-award winning artist’s passion for his craft. It reminds all as to why he has remained a success for more than forty years, with tracks on the CD sure to become favourites for all Australians domestically or a treasured keepsake for those overseas.
The first single ‘Hang My Hat In Queensland’ is pure poetry; an autobiographical account of Williamson’s life. Everything from his birth in the Mallee district of Victoria through to moving to Sydney from his family’s farm in Moree after winning television’s ‘New Faces’ with his song ‘Old Man Emu’. The lyrics encapsulate his story in music.
Never one to shy away from his truth, Williamson follows it up with ‘Movie Star’, a song paying tribute to those who have succeeded but feel they have never reached what they consider the top. ‘Rescue Me’ simply touches the heart and is a piece of perfection that will resonate and bring tears to the eyes of many.
Add to this ‘Mates Around The Fire’ which will appeal to all who identify with Williamson’s recurring theme of mateship mixed with the outback. ‘The Weight Of A Man’, is a song written by Russell Crowe that Williamson has made his own, whilst showcasing the musicality of the Hollywood superstar.
There are twelve tracks on this release, not one that doesn’t stand up to the quality that the iconic songwriter is known for. Each one is crafted perfectly and sure to become chants, wedding first dance tracks or songs to belt out amongst friends and family around the fire, lounge room or penthouse apartment. That’s the thing about Williamson; he doesn’t fit one genre or style. He is for all Australians and The Big Red backs this up with his unique ability to paint the country and Australian style and character onto a canvas of song like no other.
Get your copy from http://www.malleeboy.com or phone 02 9279 4454
Album of the Week : Harmony James
Harmony James – Handfuls of Sky
Its Harmony’s second album, being released this week at the Tamworth Country Music Festival. With a spectacular mix of bluegrass, traditional and modern country this is an album you wont want to take out of the player! Harmony’s beautiful voice combined with amazing musicians and also guest artists including Shane Nicholson, Troy Cassar-Daley, Bill Chambers and more. The album also features the 2 smashing singles heard on the 98.9fm All Aussie Top 20, “Don’t Say It” and “Pride”
Get your copy now!
40th Anniversary Tent Embassy
27th January 1972 saw the first tent go up on the lawn in front of Parliament House in response to the McMahon coalition government’s refusal to recognise Aboriginal Land Rights. Indigenous and non-Indigenous supporters came from all over Australia to join the protest. Within the first 6 months, the Embassy succeeded in uniting First Nations people throughout Australia in demanding uniform National Land Rights.
40 years on and the First Nations people of Australia are still fighting for Land Rights.
On the 26th January 2012 marks the 40th anniversary of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy, there will be a “Corroboree for Sovereignty” held on the lawns of Old Parliament House, King Geroge Tce Parkes, Canberra.
Live Broadcast from the Lawns can be heard on ‘Let’s Talk’ on 98.9fm from Wednesday 25th to Friday 27th January 9:00am to 11:00am EST
Summer lineup on 98.9FM
As our regular presenters take a well-earned break you can still catch great country here on 98.9FM.
All Australian Top 20 presenter Hayley-Belle Scott hosts breakfast from the 3 – 6 January. Regular Drive presenter Dan Rennie takes over the breakfast slot from the 9 – 21 January while Luke Peacock keeps Drive going until Dan’s return.
Our breakfast trio of Jamie, Ian and Gilly are back on Monday 23 January along with Let’s Talk host Tiga Bayles. Be sure to tune in to his special broadcast from Canberra to mark the 40th anniversary of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy on January 26.
Also returning this Sunday Bush Breakfast with Pixie Jenkins and the Shout Out Show with Uncle Peter Hill. Josh Williams and Jarrod Forgarty are back next Monday hosting Hot Country and Nights with Jarrod.
Album of the Week : Paddy McHugh & The Goldminers
Paddy is a young, talented and original singer/songwriter. Raised in Tamworth, Paddy naturally took up country music and today writes songs of his experience as a professional rambling musician. If you like your music with integrity, imagination and class, go no further than Paddy McHugh and his trusty band, The Goldminers.
For a FREE download of the album head to the website.
Wheels for Justin
Nineteen year-old, Justin Jackson , has been on crutches almost his entire life due to cerebral palsy. Keen to assert his independence and to attend university, Justin needed a specialised wheelchair to get around, which was unfortunately out of his budget.
98.9FM listeners and Wyatt Roy, Member for Longman, decided to help and managed to raise $5600 for Justin’s long-awaited wheelchair.
Image courtesy of Wyatt Roy, MP.
98.9fm Listeners donate for the PA Spinal Unit
The Sunnybank Lions club joined with 98.9fm to collect DVD’s for the patients at the Princess Alexandra Hospital Spinal Unit and the Brekky Team visited the unit on Wednesday to present the donations. In one week, over 200 DVD’s and video games were donated by listeners and members of the community. Head Nurse, Ben Hackwood says “after 4pm the patients don’t have much to, so DVD’s, video games and television keeps them entertained”.
The Spinal Unit are always open for donations, Portable DVD players are a great donation as a lot of the patients are bed ridden and don’t always have their own TV.
Contact for Donations
Ben Hackwood 07 3176 2797
Spinal Injuries Unit
Princess Alexandra Hospital
Ipswich Road
WOOLLOONGABBA QLD 4102
Paddy does Christmas
Local Brisbane singer/songwriter Paddy McHugh performs a Christmas song on the Drive Show with Dan today from 5pm. Tune in!
Troy Stops By!
Fresh from another trip to Nashville, where he is recording his forthcoming album “Home” (due out March 2012), Troy Cassar-Daley came in for a chat on the Drive Show with Dan to give us a little taste of what’s to come! Too Deadly!
65 years later, still waiting to be paid
Paul and Arthur Ah Wang are 76 years old and they are angry.
From age 13 the brothers worked side-by-side on a pearling lugger off Mackay, free diving to collect pearl shell and doing deckhand duties. It was dangerous work, and if they misbehaved they were often sent below decks to bed without dinner.
Both brothers claimed for their stolen wages under the Beattie government’s $54M reparations package for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders wages and pensions which were controlled by government. In a bizarre twist, Paul received just $3000 for his years of work and labour, while Arthur application was rejected due to insufficient documentary evidence.
Along with Ron Monaghan from the QCU, they met with the Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, Curtis Pitt, to seek stolen wages justice.
They spoke with Tiga on ‘Let’s Talk’ directly after this meeting. Listen to the podcast below.
Podcast: Play in new window
Public Memorial for Artie Beetson
A public memorial service will be held on Sunday to farewell the footy legend. A permanent bronze statue will be placed along side Wally Lewis in Lang Park, in honor of one of the seven “Rugby League Immortals”
Date: Sunday 18th December, 12noon
Location: Suncorp Stadium
Farewell Artie, you legend!
Arthur Henry “Artie” Beetson OAM January 22, 1945 – December 1, 2011
Queenslanders are mourning the loss of rugby league legend, Artie Beetson, who died of a heart attack on the Gold Coast this morning.
Beetson captained the first Queensland State of Origin team in 1980. He also coached the side to four series wins in 1982, 1983, 1984 and 1989.
His football career began in Redcliffe after he left his hometown of Roma to play in the Brisbane Rugby League competition.
He moved to Sydney and joined Balmain Tigers in the New South Wales Rugby Football League competition. During his 4-year stint with the Tigers, Beetson made his representative debut for Australia against England where he earned the nickname “half game Artie” for the 40 minutes of mayhem he caused the opposition.
Beetson also played for English rugby league side Hull before joining Eastern Suburbs (1971-1978) where he captained the team in their 1974 and 1975 premierships. He also coached in the late 70s, mid 80s and in 1994.
In the final years of his playing career, Big Artie spent two years with Parramatta before re-joining his old club, the Dolphins, in Redcliffe.
Other notable achievements include:
- The first Aboriginal person to be named captain of any Australian national sporting team
- 29 Test and World Cup caps
- OAM recognising his service to the sport of rugby league
- Named in Australian rugby league’s 100 greatest players
- Named in the Australian rugby league team of the century
- Named in the Queensland rugby league team of the century
- Named in Indigenous Australian rugby league team of the century
- Awarded Clive Churchill Medal retrospectively as Man of the Match in the 1974 grand final
- Recruitment officer for Eastern Suburbs (Sydney Roosters) and Queensland
Dan Rennie caught up with the legend this year ahead of the third game in the 2011 State of Origin in Brisbane. They spoke about his family and about his first State of Origin game. Listen to the interview.
From all the board and staff at 98.9fm and the Brisbane Indigenous Media Association our sincere condolences to the family, relatives and friends of Artie Beetson.
Thank you for the memories and for your outstanding contribution to rugby league and to First Nations people of Australia.
May he rest in peace.
To leave a message for the Beetson family or to share your thoughts about “Artie” visit our Facebook page.
Premier opens media centre
In front of more than 100 guests, friends and staff, Queensland Premier Anna Bligh opened the Brisbane Indigenous Media Association’s Multimedia Centre on Friday.
One of the many highlights of the event was Kev Carmody and Pixie Jenkins performing, “From Little Things Big Things Grow”.
Brisbane Indigenous Media Association (BIMA) CEO Tiga Bayles said the song was appropriate.
“We began broadcasting in 1984 with the Murri Hour on Triple Z and now we have opened our very own Centre with 30 full time staff and over 200,000 listeners,” he said.
“It was an auspicious occasion for all our staff and the Board and a great celebration for First Nations peoples.
“The Centre represents all that is important to First Nations peoples – the radio station gives a voice to Aboriginal perspectives on a range of matters from topical issues of the day through programs such as ‘Lets Talk’, to sharing our culture through music which includes country and Indigenous as history and story telling.
“We also provide an essential service in broadcasting key information for First Nations people in areas such as health and the law.
“And, of course, we broadcast the AFL!
“It is fitting that we also have grown from humble beginnings to owning a facility in our own right that will enable us to continue to give a voice, training and employment opportunities to First Nations Peoples.”
Newly elected BIMA President Col Dillon said Aboriginal people throughout the state could now enjoy the benefits of a state-of-the-art facility, purpose built to train young people in radio and television broadcasting.
“This investment not only supports our capacity to broadcast using state of the art equipment but more importantly provides real live training and skilling, through Triple A Training, to both Indigenous and non-indigenous peoples in a critical industry in today’s society,” Mr Dillon said.
“The funding enabled us to transform the old Armaguard building which for a period of time provided space for members of ProppaNOW, a groundbreaking group of Urban Aboriginal artists including Tony Albert, Richard Bell, Vernon Ah Kee and Laurie Nilsen, whose work is represented in the building – these artists have now reached international status.
“We would not be standing here today if it were not for the funding support we received from the Indigenous Land Corporation (ILC) and the Queensland and Australian Governments.
“The ILC provided $3.5 million, while the Australian Government provided funding of $3.2M and the Queensland Government contributing $4.2 million.”
First Use of Recording Studio
The Pigs drop in…
To perform live on the Brekkie show and break in our new recording studio.
98.9fm welcomes a fiddling new member to the family!
Pixie Jenkins, Australia’s best fiddler and all-round funny man, is the new voice of Sunday’s “Bush Brekky” Show.
With 40 years industry experience behind him Pixie melds Australian country music, comedy and theatre into his performances. Pixie has played for, supported and recorded with artists such as; Chad Morgan, John Williamson, Buddy Williams, Charlie Pride, Warren H Williams, Bob Dylan and Cher – just to name a few. He’s won five Golden Guitars and is an inductee of Country Music Hands of Fame.
Pixie’s charasmatic and cheeky nature will shine!
Join Pixie from 6am each Sunday for a morning of fun, frivolity, bush yarns, poetry and interviews - and if we’re lucky he’ll pick up his fiddle every now and again.
For more info on Pixie check out www.pixiejenkins.com Follow on Twitter @pixiejenkin.
Celebrating the Coming of Age in a New Home
BIMA has moved into our brand new Multi-Media Skills Centre. Located at 2 Ambleside St, West End, the building holds 4 digital radio studios, a multi-track recording studio and a TV studio equipped with all the latest and best technology. The completion of the new station falls on the 18th birthday of the Brisbane Indigenous Media Association which was founded on April 6, 1993.
Lookin’ For a Good Time? Muster ’11 on 989
98.9fm is once again the Official Muster Radio for the 2011 Gympie Muster, come down to the 989HQ, say G’day to the mob and grab yourself a 989 Muster Collectors T-Shirt!
WIN Brisbane Lions Tickets
Tune in to the Brekky show for your chance to win Lions home game tickets!
Album of the Week – Adam Brand
Adam Brands new album “Rev Head” is released 12 tracks with some of his greatest hits and brand new songs. Available now!
Block Training a Success
Over 3 weeks in May, 50 students from school-aged to adults visited the training centre to participate in Triple A Trainings’ annual Block Training to achieve competencies towards Certificate III & IV in Media and Broadcast Technology. Travelling from, Weipa, Kowanyama, Wujal Wujal, Hopevale, Palm Island, Townsville, Rockhampton, Cairns and Mount Isa, the mob participated in daily radio operations, on-air programs, editing, recording and mixing sound, wiring and video camera recording and editing.
The regional group went to Stylin’ Up and recorded interviews and video recording with performers and local Edlers to take back and play on their own radio stations. One group were lucky enough to be in the training centre at the same time Troy Cassar-Daley was visiting for an interview. Troy sat down and had chat with the group and shared some advice and encouragement of his own.
Overall there were 11 certificate II’s, 15 certificate III’s and 5 certificate IV’s awarded, another great ending to a round of Block Training.
Damien Saul – Old Man (live)
Damien Saul has performed over the last decade throughout Australia and is based in Brisbane. His songwriting is poetic and Continue reading →
Corn Liquor – Nightime Road (live)
The Boys from Corn Liquor performing live in the studio’s of 98.9fm Brisbane!
