- Posted on 16 Oct 2026
- 3-minute read
Sydney community radio station 2SER marks 47 years on air and launches annual radiothon.
Key takeaways
- 2SER marks 47 years with its annual radiothon.
- UTS supports 2SER as a training ground for emerging media talent.
- UTS has committed three years of funding to support the station’s transition.
- Radiotion donations will help the the station evolve into the future.
For nearly five decades, 2SER-FM 107.3 has been a soundtrack to Sydney’s cultural and civic life: amplifying local music, fostering independent journalism, and serving as a vital launchpad for emerging media talent.
As the station celebrates its 47th anniversary and kicks off its annual Radiothon fundraising drive, 2SER is now calling on the community to help celebrate and power its next episode.
Since launching in 1979, 2SER has benefited from a strong partnership with UTS. Beyond offering local news, community-engaged commentary and a platform for diverse, new and experimental Australian music, the station has provided vital training for generations of media, journalism and production professionals, including Fenella Kernabone, Bryce Mills, Richard Kingsmill, and even Tanya Plibersek before she entered politics.
“Just as UTS in more than just a university, 2SER is more than just a radio station,” said Professor James Bennett, Chair of 2SER Board and UTS Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences.
“It's part of the UTS community, offering hands-on media and broadcasting experience for our students, creating opportunities for emerging talent and providing a platform for stories that might otherwise go unheard.”
Josh Ray, a final-year UTS student in Business and Law, has been volunteering with 2SER for over two years and hosts the Saturday morning music show Newfangled.
At 2SER, Josh has honed a range of practical skills, from learning how to draw stories out of strangers, to scriptwriting and designing promotional graphics for upcoming shows.
“I’ve always loved music, and when I learned from a friend who was volunteering at 2SER that he’d just interviewed one of my favourite British bands, I was shocked and decided to volunteer too,” said Josh.
“Volunteering at 2SER has really opened my world to Sydney, there’s so many events and interesting people I’ve come in contact with.
“It’s a really supportive culture, both within the station and the broader listening community.”
Radiothon gives listeners and supporters a direct way to contribute to the unique programs and community activities that make 2SER an irreplaceable voice on Sydney's airwaves.
Future-proofing independent media
Co-founded by Macquarie University and the New South Wales Institute of Technology (now UTS), 2SER has broadcast continuously from both campuses since launching on 1 October 1979.
Following notification that Macquarie University would withdraw as managing partner and funder at the end of 2026, 2SER entered a period of transition.
UTS has proudly committed to the station’s long-term viability by pledging ongoing support for the next three years under a new, financially sustainable operating model. Approved by the 2SER Board following community input, this updated strategy ensures continuity for the station.
However, as media consumption habits and broadcasting technologies rapidly evolve, the work of securing 2SER’s future is far from complete. While the new model establishes a strong foundation, an ongoing process is focused on building long-term sustainability.
“UTS is proud of our role in 2SER’s history and its ongoing story. Radiothon is a great opportunity for our listeners and supporters to be part of that story: celebrate, participate, donate!
“Radiothon gives listeners and supporters a direct way to contribute to the unique programs and community activities that make 2SER an irreplaceable voice on Sydney's airwaves.
“Every dollar we raise helps pay for our transmission costs, licensing, training and the people behind the microphone.”
Radiothon 2026 highlight events
The Radiothon will feature a packed program of live broadcasts, performances, workshops and community events throughout October.
Highlights include:
- Daily live broadcasts from the UTS campus from Monday 19 to Friday 23 October.
- Interactive weaving workshops with Wiradjuri artist Peta-Joy Williams.
- Storytelling workshops and performances with internationally renowned storyteller Ilene Evans.
- Film screenings and panel discussions featuring students, staff and industry guests.
- The inaugural 2SER Oration: imagining the future of independent media.
- Open station tours and volunteer information sessions for anyone interested in getting involved with 2SER.
Many events will be held on the university's campus, offering students and staff a chance to experience 2SER up close, meet presenters and volunteers, and learn more about community broadcasting.