English Japanese
Did you know there is a Japanese radio program ran by volunteers in Melbourne? Did you know they broadcast from 12-PM every Sunday? Did you know they are having an annual Membership Drive from 15th May to 18th June?
3ZZZ Ethnic Community Radio Station is the largest community radio station in Australia. Being a "community radio station" means it is not making profit, completely ran by volunteers and depending on donations from the listeners.
Having worked there for 8 months, I understand the passion and hard work the Japanese team has been putting into the program. Always come in the studio an hour earlier to prepare and practice, the team is dedicated in giving the best possible program to their loyal listeners.
As the program is ran by volunteers, and does not offer any salary, the team is having a hard time making sure the program continues running. A large number of the broadcasters hold temporary visas in Australia, which means team members come and go on a regular basis, therefore, they always have to train new people.
During school semesters, there are always a few new members join the team. However, when it comes to school holidays, the team will have a hard time recruiting new broadcasters, as language schools have fewer programs, and students are going back home.
Well aware of these difficulties, the Japanese Program team never stopped trying. All these years, the program has been bringing the most timely and unbiased community news to its listeners. It has something for all age groups. Their news pick up from Japan, Melbourne information corner, Japanese teaching corner and of course, the music are all carefully prepared and wonderfully presented.
The station recently upgraded its studios. The devices are more up-to-date compared to those before. While enjoying the new radio broadcasting experience, the Japanese Program is taking advantages of these new equipment to present a better radio program to its listeners.
And of course, if you are interested in learning Japanese and speaking Japanese, or if you are just curious about broadcasting, feel free to give them a call or drop in an email. I'm sure they are more than happy to have you there on a Sunday morning, and introduce the program to you. I don't know about you, but that was how I started. Don't speak much Japanese? No worries, the spirit is what matters the most!
Apart from getting involved with the program, you are always welcome to join the membership. In fact, they are having the annual Membership Drive from 15th May to 18th June. If you sign up your membership or renew your membership during this Membership Drive, you will have the chance to win a portable digital radio! And the membership fee is $20 per year: $15 goes to station, and $5 for the program.
Show your support to the Japanese Program, for they are hardworking and sincere people. You will not regret this!!
Story Sherry Chen
Pictures From the Program
3ZZZ Ethnic Community Radio 92.3FM Japanese Program
On Air: 12-1pm, every Sunday
Webpage: http://www.melbournenet.com.au/3zzz/
Join them in Facebook group, click here.
To join the MEMBERSHIP ($20 per year), call 9415 1923 during ON AIR, or email 3zzz@melbournenet.com.au
To DONATE, call 9415 1923 during ON AIR, or fill the form ONLINE at https://secure.3zzz.com.au/donations/donate
*Please make sure you choose "Japanese" from the Program drop-down list in the Donation Details section.
To get involved in the program, visit the staff at 1st floor, 144 George Street, Fitzroy from 11.30am-1.30pm on Sundays.
*Please drop them an email before hand for the best Radio experience.
