After a somewhat tumultuous year it was a “successful” turnout and event on Saturday 18 November to officially celebrate the 25th birthday of Coonamble Community Radio MTM FM 91.9.

In this year alone the radio station has overcome a legal challenge, low committee numbers and on-air presenter vacancies to come out the other side in a strong position and still one of the more beloved institutions in Coonamble.

Over one hundred people came through the gate on Saturday to join in the celebrations, share a memory or two and grab a sausage sizzle and some cake while watching some local performances.

First up was the Australian National Anthem from Coonamble Public School contingent, and after the cake cutting was a set from successful local band Castlereagh Connection.

MTM FM Committee member Melissa Skuthorp was impressed with the turnout from the community.

“We thought it was a huge success, we got more people than we thought we would,” said Ms Skuthorp. “We appreciate Lions club and Castlereagh Connection for donating their time as well.”

“Amanda Colwell also, the cake was amazing and was the showstopper.”

Also featuring were the new bright blue MTM FM hats, featuring the stations new colours and logo.

“Quite a few hats were sold and won which was good as well,” said Ms Skuthorp.

“We got a couple of new members also.”

Saturday was also the official unveiling and debut of the new mobile broadcasting caravan, nicknamed “Boombox”.

A project six years in the making, Boombox had been organised earlier this year and was recently painted by local artist Jeremy Richardson.

The bright blue van certainly draws the eye, with its name painted on to the front in bright yellow cursive font.

The project had been a passion project of Station manager Bill Carroll.

“It looks great doesn’t it,” said Mr Carroll.

“It’ll be hard to miss if you see it.”

Speaking to the crowd on Saturday, veteran presenter and committee member Robyn Hull asked more people to take the plunge into the world of radio and discover just how fun it can be.

“On behalf of the committee and the presenters I congratulate us on our 25th birthday and wishing us many more to come as we move forward,” said Ms Hull.

“We encourage any kids to come forward and learn how much fun it can be presenting on radio.”