Radio Helderberg
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Radio Helderberg went on air at 06h00 on 1 July 1995, broadcasting on the frequency of 95.9FM from Southey Vines, Somerset West. The first announcer on air was Martin Bailie, previously a breakfast DJ on a national commercial radio station, 5FM. He now presents an early evening show on BBC Radio Cornwall. Other presenters making up the first day's schedule were Keren Bracey, Andre Michael & Nik Blundell. The value of this fledgling community radio station was first illustrated during a fire at the nearby AECI chemical plant in 1995, when clouds of poisonous gas enveloped Somerset West and Macassar. The volunteer presenters continued to broadcast throughout the night, becoming the central drop-off point for food and clothing donations, and providing hints and tips to panicked listeners.
Initially broadcasting for 15 hours a day, the station now broadcasts a wide range of MOR music, interviews and community notices in three languages – English, Afrikaans and Xhosa, 24 hours a day.
In September 1996 the station relocated to premises in the Somerset Mall from where the volunteer presenters and a full time staff of six kept the station going. Radio Helderberg has grown from a charitable association to a business, flourishing on advertising income only.
At the end of January 2004, Radio Helderberg once again relocated and is currently situated at Garden Pavilion in the Somerset West Business Park. With listeners from every corner of the basin and beyond, Radio Helderberg has become a business which continues to be there for the community to support them in their endeavours and to entertain, educate and inform.
It recently changed to stronger frequency, now broadcasting on 93.6FM which reaches as far as the southern suburbs and Riviersonderend. Long time presenters include Fanie Bam, Erna Ridge, Neil Ovens, John Floyd, Kobus Schmidt, Mike Plummer and Attie Rall.
[The Official Radio Helderberg website] [helderberg.org] [helderberg community site]
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