The former railway station at Golden Square near Bendigo was given a new life under VicTrack’s community lease program when it became home to Community Radio KLFM, a volunteer-run radio station providing entertainment and information to the people of central Victoria.
KLFM is one of more than 400 not-for-profit organisations leasing VicTrack property or land to provide community social and cultural programs.
Golden Square's home of golden oldies
Community Radio KLFM is a station specifically catering for over 55s,” said acting station manager and afternoon presenter Bill Murray.
“We’re primarily a music station mostly playing songs that our listeners grew up with, and other music that fits.
“We are also an official emergency broadcaster, which is a responsibility we take very seriously, especially as our demographic is less likely to be engaged with social media and much more likely to rely on traditional media like radio.”
“We are very much live and local, and provide company to many who would otherwise not hear a friendly voice for days at a time, quite a few of whom call in to the presenter to have a chat.”
KLFM initially leased the downside station building in the 1990s and then moved to the more spacious upside building when it became available. The station has accepted a recent offer to lease the downside building again.
“Over the last few years VicTrack has made significant improvements to the building,” Bill explained.
“The roof has been replaced along with all other existing asbestos containing materials, and earlier this year, the room we call Studio C was partially rebuilt and painted.”
Community grant aids refurbishment
KLFM also received a VicTrack Community Grant in 2024 to asphalt the station entry area, which has improved safety, especially for those with mobility issues.
The refurbishments have helped the organisation continue its good work providing entertainment, information and volunteering opportunities for people in Bendigo, Castlemaine and surrounds.
“We transmit 24/7 with 120 hours live a week, and automated content for the rest,” Bill said.
“We are very much live and local, and provide company to many who would otherwise not hear a friendly voice for days at a time, quite a few of whom call in to the presenter to have a chat.
“KLFM is a volunteer organisation, which provides opportunities for mostly retired or nearly retired people, including some volunteers in their eighties, to become involved in keeping the station on air.
“There are plenty of opportunities, including presenting and other roles. In the next few months, we will be ramping up our efforts to get more people on board.”
Find out more about Community Radio KLFM Golden Square.
The former railway station at Golden Square near Bendigo was given a new life under VicTrack’s community lease program when it became home to Community Radio KLFM, a volunteer-run radio station providing entertainment and information to the people of central Victoria.
KLFM is one of more than 400 not-for-profit organisations leasing VicTrack property or land to provide community social and cultural programs.
Golden Square's home of golden oldies
Community Radio KLFM is a station specifically catering for over 55s,” said acting station manager and afternoon presenter Bill Murray.
“We’re primarily a music station mostly playing songs that our listeners grew up with, and other music that fits.
“We are also an official emergency broadcaster, which is a responsibility we take very seriously, especially as our demographic is less likely to be engaged with social media and much more likely to rely on traditional media like radio.”
“We are very much live and local, and provide company to many who would otherwise not hear a friendly voice for days at a time, quite a few of whom call in to the presenter to have a chat.”
KLFM initially leased the downside station building in the 1990s and then moved to the more spacious upside building when it became available. The station has accepted a recent offer to lease the downside building again.
“Over the last few years VicTrack has made significant improvements to the building,” Bill explained.
“The roof has been replaced along with all other existing asbestos containing materials, and earlier this year, the room we call Studio C was partially rebuilt and painted.”
Community grant aids refurbishment
KLFM also received a VicTrack Community Grant in 2024 to asphalt the station entry area, which has improved safety, especially for those with mobility issues.
The refurbishments have helped the organisation continue its good work providing entertainment, information and volunteering opportunities for people in Bendigo, Castlemaine and surrounds.
“We transmit 24/7 with 120 hours live a week, and automated content for the rest,” Bill said.
“We are very much live and local, and provide company to many who would otherwise not hear a friendly voice for days at a time, quite a few of whom call in to the presenter to have a chat.
“KLFM is a volunteer organisation, which provides opportunities for mostly retired or nearly retired people, including some volunteers in their eighties, to become involved in keeping the station on air.
“There are plenty of opportunities, including presenting and other roles. In the next few months, we will be ramping up our efforts to get more people on board.”
Find out more about Community Radio KLFM Golden Square.
