CONTROVERSIAL radio duo Steve Jankowicz and Haydon Cox returned to the air Sunday night after an overwhelming response to their dismissal from 5GTRFM prompted their reinstatement.
Community radio station broadcasting access for the duo was axed after they played the explicit 1980s track Hump Music by No Face on air at 11pm on the first Sunday of June.
With no official warnings recorded, the show Jank n the Phatman was immediately cancelled after the duo received a text message from the station secretary.
Outraged by the dismissal, the duo took to Facebook to voice their disappointment, attracting a significant response.
Last Thursday, Steve and Haydon met with station chairperson Nathan Butler and a current board member to discuss the situation.
Steve said the meeting was productive and a positive step forward.
“As soon as we walked in they wanted us back on the air, there were no ifs or buts about it,” he said.
“However, we have still had no contact from management but have requested an official apology.
“For now we have said our bit and we appreciate getting back on the air, but as far as the internal issues go we have to rely on the process.
“The ball is in their court now and it is up to the board to make the changes required to bring the sense of community back to the station.
“We just love doing the show and it felt good walking into the studio on Sunday because we showed we weren’t beat the best way we know how – through music … so we ended the show with Hump Music.”
Mr Butler released a statement via the station’s Facebook page outlining the station’s mishandling of the dismissal.
“There has been recent exposure on social media and local press regarding the management of 5GTR FM Community Radio following the axing of an on air program,” he said.
“We advise members, listeners and supporters that correct procedure was not followed in this instance.
“A discussion has taken place with these presenters which will see them return to the programming roster.”
He confirmed a meeting would be scheduled for members.
“To assist our members and calm the social media comments, a meeting will be arranged soon to allow your input into ongoing concerns that have been raised during the last few weeks,” Mr Butler said.
“5GTR has been an access radio station since 1983 and allows for programming by the community for the community.
“As chairperson, I have a duty to listen to our members in an effort to keep 5GTR a place our members and volunteers feel welcomed and appreciated.”
Steven and Haydon agreed community support drove the action to be reversed.
“It has been overwhelming, we did not expect such support from the community,” Haydon said.
“We had a lot of options for the show if we couldn’t go back there, but I guess it was a step in the right direction in terms of addressing issues within the community radio system itself,” Steve said.
“We were contacted by community presenters and volunteers from across the country facing the same concerns and issues at their own station,” Haydon said.
“It sends a message to people that if something is not right, it is okay to say no and stand your ground and power in numbers really works.”
