Automatic for FBi

Despite a relatively small size when compared to some larger giants of radio in Sydney, the independent station that broadcasts out of Redfern has played an integral role for the arts scene in Sydney for the past six years. Not only does it assist as a platform for local music acts to get heard, it also promotes the local dramatic and visual artists.

As FBi’s revenue pools have entered a period of severe drought, the station has put the call out for listeners to contribute in dribs and drabs by holding a series of 16 “Save FBi” gigs and two DJ nights across the city.

FBi marketing manager, Julia Thomas, said that the station that is staffed by around 200 volunteers is not simply about playing music, but fostering emerging artists and art culture in Sydney. “It’s important to have a station that reflects the community,” Julia said at gig number four held at the Metro Theatre on George Street. “And FBi is about encouraging young musicians and artists; it’s a place where musicians can get a leg-up, where they can bring their music before it’s totally polished.”

One initiative Julia referred to was the FBi open music days that are held on the first Monday of every month. The station’s doors are opened up to musicians to get face-time and feedback from people who work in the industry.

The independent station may not be the primary or sole station for Sydney’s young people, but many see its relevance to undiscovered artists and musicians. “There’s a lot of independent bands that rely on FBi,” said Liz, a part-time listener of the station. “[FBi] is a great thing for Sydney music and it would be a real shame for it to go. People show a real affiliation to it – it’s got a massive following,” she said.

The station’s music director, Dan Zilber, said that the retraction in funding has been a direct result of the economic climate, but is looking at it as a challenge in which listeners are being encouraged to help overcome. “We’re putting it back in the hands of the people. We’re putting on gigs where people can come and supplement the income that we’re not making from our sponsors,” Dan said.

Not only is the listenership stepping up to assist, but also many Sydney musicians such as Kid Confucius, Bird Automatic and Pip Branson Corporation are getting involved. National artists, too, have offered their free helping hands, including Katie Steele, the Mess Hall and Midnight Juggernauts. The venues in which the Save FBi gigs are being held have all been donated and offered free of charge. 

“Everyone has come to the party and the gigs came together in time frame which I guess you could call a miracle,” Dan said, “They’re up and running, the people are coming out and for every ticket sold, the money goes back to keeping the station alive.”

That they happened so quickly is testament to the station and its relevance to Sydney’s arts and youth community. However, Dan maintains that Sydney’s local musicians are facing a dire future if FBi is not able to procure continued funding.

“It’s really hard to get support as an independent musician and without FBi all the artists are losing a staunch supporter,” Dan stated with reluctance, adding that, “We need more places like FBi, not less”.

As well as FBi’s continued appeal to listeners to chip in a few tax-deductible dollars, the station recently ran a campaign to appeal to the high-flying entrepreneur, Richard Branson, to slide an easy mill into the station’s coffers.

Despite best hopes, the British billionaire didn’t answer the station’s prayers; however, his generosity has provided flights to London and LA as prizes for those willing to contribute in an FBi Supporter role.

Save FBi gigs continue throughout June and July, as well as a local art auction in July with pieces donated from around the country. For more details log onto www.fbiradio.com or tune into FM 94.5 for your chance to win a trip to V Festival in the UK and many other prizes.

Source: South Sydney Herald July 2009 www.southsydneyherald.com.au