Charles Darwin University’s (CDU) very own radio station has upgraded to a new state-of-the-art studio in the city’s heart after more than 40 years in its original home. Territory FM relocated to a new broadcast centre in the Danala | Education and Community Precinct in September last year after being based at the CDU Casuarina campus since 1981.

Station Manager and Drive host Matt Bern said the old studio had reached an “end of life state” with some equipment  in use for more than 20 years.

Mr Bern said the new studio – complete with three fully digital Wheatstone studios, new broadcast microphones, electric sit-stand desks, and some great scenic views – would give his team and listeners the best possible radio experience.

“We are now totally digital, and all three studios are linked and can communicate with each other,” he said.

“We are using the latest Wheatstone broadcast gear, which is very user-friendly for core staff and TFM volunteers.

“We have the ability to record music artists and other talent very easily in all studio’s and a purpose built sound-proof booth.

“It was very sad to leave our home as there is a lot of history in there – but we are so excited to make new memories.”

Mr Bern said the new studio had been modelled to look familiar to the team but still offered fresh opportunities with the new set-up.

“Our workflows for interviews and podcasting have increased – the TFM team are loving their new space,” he said.

He said the team spent about 18 months designing a fit-for-purpose space for the station’s six full time staff and up to 30 volunteers.

“All studios can broadcast live unlike before, with our main studio being extra special with additional power options to broadcast during emergencies such as weather events,” he said.

“We have been decommissioning the Casuarina studios and will more than likely be offering up some of the technology to other community radio stations in the NT and beyond.”