Calling all aspiring radio hosts – 2MaxFM wants you

The radio star is alive and well in 2021 as audio makes a comeback with the popularity of podcasts, audiobooks and of course, the trusty wireless that’s still regarded as a reliable and accessible source of news and entertainment.

On Tuesday nights, 17-year-old Hugh Hunter and 25-year-old Kane Watson hit the 2Max FM airwaves with their radio show that’s aptly named: ‘The Kane and Hugh Show’.

The boys from Baan Baa recently teamed up to produce and present the comedy talk show, and it’s been a hit with the listeners of Narrabri’s community radio station 2MaxFM.

“We’ve had a blast,” said Hugh.

“I went on radio when I was younger but I was really just playing music, I didn’t have a co-host and then Kane came along so we collaborated.

“I really enjoy entertaining people and it’s a good way to contribute to the community.

“The 2MaxFM audience has been very welcoming.”

Hugh also has his own podcast called ‘The Guess Hugh Podcast’ and he’s keen to encourage any aspiring radio hosts to step into the studio.

“It’s just you and the mic, the studio is completely different to public speaking, you don’t have to worry and you can feel confident on radio or on a podcast.

“And if you’re looking for someone to help you out at 2MaxFM or to collaborate then I’d be happy to help.”

Hugh is in Year 12 at St Mary’s in Gunnedah and while a career in comedy or a presenting gig are certainly in his sights, he does hope to remain in regional Australia.

“My current plan is to take a few gap years and go jackerooing.

“I am looking at a course with the Australian Film, Television and Radio School, but I’ll just see where it takes me.

“I’d love to do something light-hearted like Hamish and Andy.

“But I’m also keen to stay rural too.”

The enthusiasm and energy that young hosts, like Hugh and Kane, bring to 2MaxFM only builds on the community radio station’s 20 years of experience and service to the Narrabri region.

The dulcet tones of many volunteer presenters are a comforting sound to the community whether they’re sharing a joke, having a chat, reading The Courier or reporting the police news on-air.

The 2MaxFM team is a vital part of people’s connection to what’s happening in society.

“We’ve worked hard to keep it live and local,” said 2MaxFM station manager Cassie Boyd.

Mrs Boyd said the community radio station is very keen to recruit some new presenters, and it’s a fabulous opportunity.

“It’s lots of fun, you get to meet new people and play the music you like,” said Mrs Boyd.

“There’s no experience needed, we can help train you and it’s really easy to learn.

“It’s a very supportive environment and you can go from radio to making podcasts.”

Mrs Boyd said presenters have the freedom to be creative and build their confidence.

“You can come in and play music or do a talk show and express your personality and build a persona.

“There is also no need to be frightened of the microphone.”

Being able to hear someone’s voice when they’re being interviewed is part of what makes radio such a powerful medium: the sound of a waver in their voice or compassion in their tone sets the scene and helps to tell someone’s story.

“People love that connection and being able to relate to whoever is being interviewed whether it’s the police sergeant, an artist in the top 40 or a country singer like Adam Harvey.”