Three Dedicated Volunteers Awarded Life Memberships at 2CBD-FM
Community spirit was front and centre on Monday night as Deepwater & Districts Community FM Radio Inc. (2CBD) bestowed Life Membership on three long-serving contributors whose efforts have shaped the station across two decades.
The awards, presented at the Association’s annual meeting, recognised the exceptional service and commitment of Wayne Jones, Andrew Parsons, and Barry Luxford—each of whom has played a pivotal role in building and strengthening the region’s volunteer-run community radio station. President Laurie Newsome made the presentations.
Wayne Jones
A former President of the Association (2006–2009) and long-time breakfast presenter, Wayne Jones was acknowledged for his leadership during what the committee described as a “formative period” for 2CBD.
Wayne travelled from Inverell for both monthly meetings and three early-morning broadcasts each week—an extraordinary commitment that helped anchor the station’s daily programming.
Alongside his on-air duties, he provided technical support and was a significant financial backer through sponsorship of the news service. His efforts were central to establishing the Glen Innes studio at Martins Lookout.
The Association said it was “with great pleasure” that Wayne was awarded Life Membership.
Andrew Parsons
Widely appreciated for his practical support and generosity, Andrew Parsons was recognised for years of behind-the-sc
enes contributions.
His electrical expertise was vital during the major upgrades of the new Radio Centre in 2016, work he completed at minimal cost before donating part of his account back to the station.
Andrew was also the creative mind behind the now-familiar 2CBD promotional signage on Parsons Carriers trucks—an initiative he personally funded, helping to spread the “Cool FM” message across the district and beyond.
The Association honoured Andrew with Life Membership for his sustained dedication.
Barry Luxford
Instrumental in major infrastructure projects, Barry Luxford was celebrated for his role in securing funding and providing professional drafting services at no cost to the station.
Barry played a key part in the purchase and fit-out of the former Baptist Church—now home to 2CBD—despite the organisation having just $45,000 available at the time.
In 2022, he again volunteered his drafting skills for plans underpinning a $270,000 upgrade of the station’s amenities, a project now nearing completion.
His ongoing contributions earned him Life Membership of the Association.
The three Life Memberships highlight the depth of community commitment behind 2CBD-FM, which broadcasts on 105.9 MHz in Glen Innes and 91.1 MHz in Deepwater.
The station noted that the dedication of volunteers such as Wayne, Andrew, and Barry remains the backbone of local community radio—keeping local voices, stories, and music on the airwaves for all to share.
