Community broadcasters are mourning the loss of community broadcasting pioneer Philip Shine who passed away on Wednesday.
A vibrant and colourful character, Philip was a stalwart of community broadcasting and recipient of the 2022 Michael Law Award for outstanding lifetime achievement.
Philip’s journey in community broadcasting began in the early 1990s at Sydney’s Eastside Radio, where he started as a volunteer and rose to become Station Manager. His leadership was instrumental in establishing Eastside as a hub for creative jazz and roots music.
Following his success at Eastside, Philip took on the role of Station Manager at 2SER for a decade. During his tenure, he balanced the academic needs of the university station’s educational licence while expanding 2SER’s reach and reputation for innovative programming.
Philip’s contributions extended beyond individual stations. He served on the CBAA Board, where he was known for his passionate advocacy for station independence and sector-wide collaboration. In 2010, he took charge of implementing the sector’s Digital Radio Project (DRP), advancing this groundbreaking initiative.
In 2011 Philip moved to Byron Bay, where he became Station Manager at BAY FM after he finished leading the CBAA DRP. Under his guidance, BAY FM flourished into one of Australia’s most innovative and award-winning regional stations.
The 2022 Michael Law Award recognised Philip’s lifetime of dedication to community broadcasting. His friend Seth Jordan described him as “a very inspiring and remarkable man, a truly dedicated community broadcaster and a very dear friend to many.”
Philip’s impact on community broadcasting in Australia was profound and far-reaching. His legacy will continue to inspire and shape the sector for years to come. The CBAA extends its deepest condolences to Philip’s family, friends, and colleagues. He will be greatly missed by many members of the community broadcasting family.