The peak group which represents the interests of 31 community radio stations across South Australia has issued a statement to The SE Voice with respect to the current situation in Millicent.

This follows a community group at loggerheads with 5 THE-FM as it has concerns about the governance and management of the community radio station.

5 THE-FM is a member of the South Australian Community Broadcasting Association.

“The SACBA encourages and expects that all community broadcasters will have open membership and abide by the licence conditions and guidelines as required by the Australian Communications and Media Authority and the Community Radio Broadcasting Codes of Practice,” stated the SACBA.

“Fundamental to these requirements is the participation by the community in the operation and management of the station, as well as the selection and provision of programming broadcast by the station.”

Meanwhile, former Wattle Range Mayor Mark Braes has accepted the offer of the community group to act as a mediator with the Millicent community radio station.

Group leader David Walshaw said he was waiting to see if 5 THE-FM would agree to mediation with Mr Braes in the key role.

Mr Walshaw said his group welcomed the involvement of Mr Braes as he brought vast experience in public life and a considerable skill set to the role.

He said Mr Braes has a legal background, works as a professional mediator and is a past chairman of 5 THE-FM.

“Mr Braes is the joint chairman of the Millicent Business Community Association and has served as the chairman of Regional Development Australia Limestone Coast and the South East Natural Resources Management Board,” Mr Walshaw said.

“Among his many community interests in Millicent have been Rotary, St Vincent de Paul Society, Labor Party and St Alphonsus Church.”

The SE Voice has approached 5 THE-FM for comment.