The station, known as Mud Brick Radio, is manned by more than 30 volunteer presenters and broadcasts music and community information segments to the Bellinger Valley.

“This radio station has been serving the Bellingen community with broadcasts continuously for 30 years and is well deserving of a makeover,” Mr Hartsuyker said.

“The mud brick building needs a facelift and this funding through the Stronger Communities Programme will be used to repaint the two studios, foyer area, meeting room, library, office and amenities. The work will be completed by a tradesman and a team of volunteers.

 “Community radio is part of the fabric of regional and rural areas; keeping residents informed and entertained and affording locals the opportunity to learn broadcasting and other skills.

“The establishment of 2BBB back in the mid-1970s was a collaborative effort between the Bellinger Valley community, the local council and the Federal Government, and this co-operative community spirit lives on through the station today,” Mr Hartsuyker said.

The Federal Government’s Stronger Communities Programmes funds small capital projects in local communities. It will deliver $45 million over two years.