Cavalcade of characters – and radio’s Ian has heard them all

Castlemaine is a pioneering centre for the medium, which was a phenomenon in regionalVictoria when 3CCC first hit the airwaves in 1982.

Within a few years it became one of the most notable and respected community radio stations inAustralia.

Ian Braybrook was there from day one. Starting as the nervous reader of the local newspaper for the print handicapped, he went on to present thousands of radio programs, and was a popular broadcaster across the region.

It is the diversity of people who make the story of community radio so rich, and in Castlemaine, Ian encountered hundreds of fascinating individuals.

He’s published a book, Bush Wireless, which tells of the personalities and countless funny, sad, surprising and entertaining stories that characterise community-based radio stations.

“There were people from all walks of life – it has been amazing to meet all the different types,” he said.

But as with any collection of human beings, life isn’t always straightforward.

“There have been so many funny things, like the time a presenter rang in and told me: I can’t do my show, I’m in jail.

Ian said having everyone all mixed together is a great social environment.

“Most friends my wife Mazza and I have got to know we met through community radio.

“On air I became people’s friends – they listened, they would ring and write. There were lonely and isolated people, and I became their friends and that brings a great amount of satisfaction.”

Nevertheless, there were lows as well as highs.

“I’ve met some bad people – I couldn’t believe how low some people sink; you see the best and the worst.”

Ian has also seen how harsh, hurtful and fragile the world can appear when egos and politics dominate.

He’s been on the receiving end more than once.

But when good things happen, new opportunities arise, and since his 3CCC days, he has been a prominent player in establishing another three radio stations.

Today, at 79, he’s still on air, running a community station (88FM) for a senior audience encompassing Castlemaine, Chewton and Campbells Creek.

“It runs from a studio at home and is mostly automated – when I feel like going on air (generally a couple of hours a day), I do,” Ian said.

“There’s a good mix of music from the 1930s to 1980s, a layback sort of sound.

“We broadcast information and handy hints for seniors, and our old serials and radio plays are very popular.

“It’s funded by donations from local businesses. We run it on a shoestring.”