A steering committee established at the beginning of May hopes to have the station on air within 12 months.

Interim chairman David Bennett said things were moving ahead quickly, with a constitution nearing completion and government incorporation expected to be finalised by the end of June.

“There’s enthusiasm for community radio in Dubbo and interest is growing all the time,’’ Mr Bennett said.

“Oxley Community Telco has already come on board with a pledge of sponsorship and other businesses have responded positively to the idea.

“We are still working on the call letters for the station and a number of people have indicated a desire to have an on-air role.’’

Mr Bennett, a Dubbo district resident, has been involved with community broadcaster WAR FM at Gilgandra for 10 years.

He appreciates getting a community radio station up and running is a lot of work.

“Government funding is available for set up costs and a station in Dubbo could follow the Gilgandra model where the community gets involved in fundraisers and people elect to pay an annual membership fee.’’

WAR FM president Del Gordon will attend the Orana Broadcasters weekly meeting at McDonald’s family restaurant from 7pm on Tuesday.

Further information about the push for community radio can be obtained by telephoning Mr Bennett on 0409 818 347.