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Benjie makes waves on radio

Posted on June 25, 2009, 7:07am and updated on June 25, 2009 at 4:31 pm

Benji

Benjie McQuade on air at 5GTR community radio in Mount Gambier.

Sitting back in a chair with his headphones on, a radio microphone and a pile of CDs in reach, Mount Gambier’s Benjie McQuade is an inspiration to others.

The Tenison Woods College student has hit the airwaves with his golden radio tones and has shown other young people what can be achieved through a bit of determination.

Benjie is now one of the most popular presenters at the 5GTR community radio station in Mount Gambier where he presents the afternoon “Pepsi Drive” once a week.

Walking into the radio station, Benjie can be seen behind a glass door with the red light on.

Benjie — whose radio name is B-Rex on air — is asking for song requests and can be seen flicking through CD titles for songs.

The Year 12 student explains he has always wanted to be on radio, but it was not until he was mentored by former 5GTR stalwart Graham Smith, that his dream came true.

Graham, who sadly passed away earlier this year, helped Benjie with his training until he fostered enough confidence to go live on air.

Benjie — who will turn 18 next month — began behind the scenes undertaking some cataloguing and production work, before moving up as a presenter.

“I enjoy it when people ring up for requests,” said Benji, who explained they were required to play at least 30pc Australian content.

“I just love being on radio and doing something for the community,” Benjie said.

“It is a real buzz.”

Scrolling through the music titles on the screen, Benjie explains he loves playing a variety of music — including the classics.

“I like a lot of old songs, I play a bit of Queen sometimes too,” Benjie said.

He said he loved going to the community-owned radio station on a weekly basis and this was a highlight.

“All the crew here are really good and very helpful,” Benjie said.

Benjie is also a popular student at Tenison Woods College, where he is involved in the school’s drum corps.

He took centre stage with his other drum corp members at the 2009 Mayoral Gala performance last Saturday night — they were a huge hit with the packed crowd at the Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre.

He also takes regular singing lessons.

Benjie can be heard on the Pepsi Drive from 4pm to 6pm each Wednesday.

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