West Australian community radio powerhouse RTRFM has earned international acclaim, tying for first place with Lady Gaga’s website to win Best Music Site in the 2025 Webby Awards.
The Webby Awards, often referred to as “the internet’s highest honour”, celebrate excellence on the internet across a wide range of categories including websites, video, apps, and podcasts. Winning a Webby is a significant achievement, shining a spotlight on RTRFM’s dedication to connecting audiences with diverse, innovative music programming and Perth-based design agency Start Digital‘s efforts in creating the new site.
RTRFM’s Station Manager, Simon Miraudo, said the station was “extremely chuffed (and extremely flabbergasted)” by the win.
“Our listeners, volunteers and staff have long believed RTRFM can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with some of the best music outlets in the world, so to get this kind of global recognition for our website, and our new online-only channel RTR2, is both humbling and validating,” Simon said.
“Lady Gaga has a standing invitation to any of our upcoming events, and we’ll even throw in a plus-one for a friend!”
Reflecting on the website redevelopment that led to the award, Simon emphasised the importance of staying true to the station’s community roots.
“There were three guiding purposes when we started working with Start Digital: making music the hero, helping listeners better discover and stream shows they love, and launching RTR2 to broaden our music programming. We also kept accessibility at the centre of everything we did,” he said.
Simon’s advice to other stations considering a digital refresh is clear: focus first on community, music, and accessibility, and work with partners who share your passion.
“Find a developer who truly gets you. And above all, remember: without brilliant community presenters creating brilliant radio, there’s no point having a website at all!”
About RTRFM
Established in 1977, RTRFM is Perth’s original community broadcaster. Known as “The Sound Alternative”, RTRFM is powered by more than 300 volunteers and showcases an extraordinary range of music, arts and ideas across its programming. Through its commitment to local artists, diverse voices and independent journalism, RTRFM plays a vital role in keeping Perth’s creative and cultural scene vibrant.