Life FM Newsletter May 2012- PDF version

Life FM Newsletter March 2012- PDF version

Life FM Newsletter December 2011 - PDF version

Life FM Newsletter October 2011 - PDF version

Yarram - Our Town

We tried something new last month. For the last week in September we focused our attention on Yarram. Earlier in the month we ran an advertising campaign in the town and also spent time visiting people and recording interviews about the past, present and future of the district.

We discovered lots of friendly people and a vibrant heritage and excitement about being able to share the stories.
Thanks to the team who did a load of extra work in getting material prepared and on air and the web and to Randell and Philip who were at Nielsen's Pharmacy in Yarram from 10am till 2pm as we broadcast from Yarram on the last day. It should be noted that the rain came down at 2:05pm!! Praise God! Thanks also to the Neilson’s for their continued support and for putting up with the boys! Thanks also to the Yarram Lions for the great sausages!

All the recordings will be presented to the Yarram Historical Society for their archives. A HUGE thank you to those who opened their homes to us to tell us their stories.

This is something we’d like to move around Gippsland - maybe an annual event until we get some more hands on deck!
Deb

Birthday Party Invite!!

It’s eight years since Life FM hit the airwaves and we’re celebrating our birthday!
All Life FM members are invited to attend our AGM and birthday and party in style at
St Mark’s Anglican Church
55 Albert St, Rosedale
(Albert St runs Parallel to Princes H’way
- turn off Wood or Latrobe Sts)
on Wednesday 26th October @ 7.30pm.

But it doesn’t stop there!
The celebration continues as station sponsor Christian Bookworld Traralgon will have a 15% off stall for all Life FM members.

If you’re not a member - join on the night - $33 or $22 concession - you’ll receive a member’s pack, FREE supper and you’ll have voting rights at the meeting (if we need to vote)!
...but wait ...there’s more!

All members attending will be in the draw for the fabulous door prize!
A Cisco Flip video camera - plugs straight into your PC
RSVP (for catering) by Monday 24th October
call 5143 0355 or email birthday@lifefm.com.au

Prayer and Praise

Praise God for His Continued Blessings
For the little surprises we receive in the mail with encouraging letters of support. It is so humbling to receive these gifts in support of this ministry we are building together.

Praise God for Valued Supporters
For the team who keep the station on air and accountable. What a blessing to work together with one accord!

Pray for New Sponsors
Please pray for a good response to our new sales packages. We’ve been sending them out to many businesses…..

Prayer for Ears to Hear
Please continue to pray for those listening to Life FM to be touched by the Spirit of God though the music and the messages.

Pray for Continued Financial Support
Please pray for those who have not renewed their memberships to be prompted to do so and we ask for the provision of more new members and Ministry Mates.

Prayer for the Team
We have a small core team who are paid part time and also volunteer extra time. Please pray for them to stay focused and to keep trusting God for His provision. Pray also for those who volunteer when they are able.

Prayer for the Board
Pray for wisdom as we approach our AGM. We have 6 vacancies on our Board of 10 . Legislation is changing and we will need to update our Rules once the changes are finalized. Until then, it is difficult to hold meetings if we don’t have a quorum of 6. Please pray for God to send the people He wants involved in this ministry.

New Staff and Celebrations

We celebrated two birthdays and welcomed new staff member Colleen Southall to the Admin team.

Colleen will be with us for 3 months on a subsidized work program and will be in the “hot seat” while Yvonne takes a well earned holiday.

New Stuff

We’ll have a couple of BIG announcements at our AGM so be there!!!

ALSO: Introducing a new segment on our Gippsland Extra program (Fri 7am and 4pm) featuring local newspapers from around the Gippsland region.

Each week Deb will speak to a couple of editors about major stories they are covering and what’s happening in their patch. We commenced this last week – the audio is on our website - go to the interviews page.

We see this as a way of letting people know about other areas of Gippsland they may not have knowledge of unless they get the local paper. We add the audio to the web after broadcast and also a link to the paper’s website if they have one.

Birthday Appeal

We've had an exciting 8 years and as we contemplate the future we need to replace some equipment as well as continue to pay the day to day bills.

Life FM’s ministry is to tell people about Jesus through music and programs - YOU are an integral part in this listener supported ministry!

Our funds have been very tight over the past 12 months and we have little room to breathe. We are so grateful to the 83 people who donated $35,879.60 during our Fools For Christ Appeal but we are still way short of our $60,000 target. Please consider how you can help to keep this ministry functioning.

You can make a TAX DEDUCTIBLE donation ANYTIME - or direct debit to
Bendigo Bank, Branch : 633-000 Acct : 116708298

Please make sure you put your name as the reference so we can send you a receipt.

Life FM Newsletter August 2011 - PDF version

BBQ Blessings!

You just never know where you’ll find a blessing….

There were plenty at the Life FM Fundraiser BBQ at Bunnings in Morwell on 23 July. Not only were the sausages very tasty and perfectly cooked ….but the team spirit was great and the crowd was fairly constant.

The day was superbly organised by Lucy Elms and she and her family as well as a team of volunteers made the day a great success.

The bonus blessing came from a family who had travelled from Bairnsdale - the long way because there was flooding in the area. They bought a sausage each and handed over what we thought was $50 and said keep the change…...BUT what a blessing to discover it was in fact a wad of $50’s and we kept the change from $500!!! They drove back east and we didn’t get to find out who they were!
The final total for the day was $1058.30 - Praise God!.

If you are a Life FM Coffee Club member you could win the September offer of a family 3 park pass to the Philip Island Nature Parks PLUS you'll receive a free wine or soft drink with every meal purchase at Harry's on the Esplanade restaurant in Cowes.

There's more.... you'll go in the draw to WIN one of three fabulous weekend escapes to Harry's luxury accommodation on the esplanade.

If you're not in Coffee Club you can join online or call the office during business hours.....5143 0355.

Thanks to Philip Island Nature Parks
for their generous donation.

Prayer & Praise

Praise God for His Continued Blessings
For the little surprises we receive in the mail with encouraging letters of support.

Praise God for Valued Supporters
For the regular team and volunteers who keep the station on air and accountable.

Pray for New Sponsors
Please pray for a good response to our new sales packages. We’ll be launching them in Yarram on the 6th Sept.

Prayer for Ears to Hear
Please continue to pray for those listening to Life FM to be touched by the Spirit of God though the music and the messages.

Pray for Continued Financial Support
Please pray for those who have not renewed their memberships to be prompted to do so and we ask for the provision of more new members and Ministry Mates.

Prayer for the Team
We have a small core team who are paid part time and also volunteer extra time. Please pray for them to stay focused and to keep trusting God for His provision. Pray also for those who volunteer when they are able.

Prayer for the Board
Pray for wisdom as we approach our AGM. We will have 6 vacancies on our Board of 10 . Legislation is changing and we will need to update our Rules once the changes are finalized. Until then, it is difficult to hold meetings if we don’t have a quorum of 6.

Our Town - Yarram

We’re trying something new and would appreciate your prayers as we do so.

The last week in September we will be focusing on Yarram. We will hear about the town and the region throughout the week during the breakfast session from 5 - 9am as well as regularly scheduled programs.

On Friday 30th Sept the team will be in Yarram at station sponsor Neilson’s Pharmacy and we will be doing “live’” crosses throughout the day.

There will be lots of prizes and the Yarram Lions Club will be sizzling sausages.

If you’re able to get to Yarram on the 30th we’d love to meet you!

This is a project we’d like to move around our region - perhaps you’d like to nominate your town for a visit.

Governance is Ministry - How Can You Serve?

The Annual General Meeting (and 8th Birthday Party!) is fast approaching - Wednesday 26th October, 7pm at St Mark’s Anglican Church, Rosedale and we will be once more facing six vacancies on our Board of nine elected positions.

So what does it mean to be on the Board of Gippsland Christian Broadcasters?

Skills are important but decisions made by the Board are collective. It’s not necessary to be an accountant or lawyer - what we need is “collective common sense”.  There are competency standards for being on a Board.

They can be summed up - ACT REASONABLY with HONESTY and IN GOOD FAITH.

We need diversity - in denominational representation. Our Rules of Assoc. allow for up to three from any one denomination.

We need geographical diversity - and for those who would need to travel to meetings - which are held in different parts of our region - we are introducing video conferencing.

We need gender diversity. Come October our current Board representatives will be two men and two women - which is indeed diverse however we need more members as a quorum is six!

We have a strategic plan for the next five years so we need people who are focused on our

VISION: Reaching out with the message of hope found only in Jesus to residents and visitors to Gippsland.
MISSION: To bring Christian Radio and associated media to the people of Gippsland.

We are all learning, and good governance is a part of that plan. Above all we need to ensure that our focus is always on Jesus. We have been gathering Governance material from a number of sources for training, including Christian Management Australia who have developed 12 Essential Standards for Christian Boards. This ministry is moving forward and we need to be informed and act with integrity, always relying on Jesus to lead the way.

NOMINATIONS - DEADLINE 17th October
If you wish to nominate someone for the Board (Committee of Management), please call the office and we’ll email or post one out to you - or you can download a form (this will be availableTues 6th Sept)

**Please note that to nominate someone you must be a financial member of Life FM over the age of eighteen (Rule 24.2)

The signed nomination form must arrive at the Life FM office no later than 5:00pm on Monday 17th October.

Details of the nominees will then be posted on the Life FM web site on Tuesday 18th October and also displayed at the AGM (Rule 12.6).   Please include a photo with the nomination.

Voting will only be required if there is more than the required number of nominees.

Contact the office for the Board Info Kit so there are no surprises!

Good governance and accountability will help to keep Life FM on air in Gippsland.

Please pray for those who may consider nomination - It could be YOU!

Life FM Newsletter June 2011 - PDF version

Cupcake Support!

The Life FM team was very encouraged when we received this email from Karen Thorp from station sponsor South Coast Christian College. We are so grateful for the enthusiasm and encouragement and the funds raised - so we wanted to share this with you.

The folks at South Coast Christian College think the team at Life FM are doing a great job in our community. We had a fundraiser to raise money to help keep our favorite radio station on air. We sold home baked cupcakes during lunch and recess at which we raised $240.

The fund raiser was put on by the ancillary staff of South Coast Christian College in Leongatha because we each agree 103.9 Life FM is a great ministry that must be kept on air for the good of our community. Perry (pictured with his mum Karen) was very helpful decorating cupcakes and then kept a running tally on the calculator before, during and after the final sale.

We want to say a big THANK YOU to SCCC and to others who organise fundraisers for the station. Thanks to St Mark’s in Rosedale who had a sausage sizzle earlier this year and thanks to Boolarra Christian Church - they’re having a garage sale and inviting you to watch some Christian programs on their new satellite TV on Sat 9th Jul from 9.00am-3.00pm.
There will be a variety of goods for sale from 3 family homes and the church clean out.
All are most welcome to come and browse and make a reasonable offer for goods, listen to music, have a cuppa, mingle and chat. Money raised to cover costs and for Life FM...but wait there’s more!

There will be a sausage sizzle at Bunnings in Morwell on Sat 23rd July 9am - 4pm.
Thanks to Lucy Elms and her team for organising this fundraiser. Please support these events to encourage those doing the work and to help us too!

Deb

Signs of Life and More Thanks

The Life FM trailer sign has moved again - thanks to Brett Ipsen. The trailer has been at the Sale Baptist Church for the last six months - for which are very grateful. It is currently parked in a very high profile spot at the Morwell Christian Church on the current freeway by-pass. We are most thankful to MCC for the opportunity and their continued support.
If you know another high profile site please let us know so we can keep moving the trailer around.

Feedback

Bairnsdale- Please find enclosed a donation to assist with the valuable work carried out by LifeFM. It is important that your broadcasting of the Christian message continues into the future. Where can I buy the talks I heard on Sunday from BHC. I think they are really great. I have been hearing them on Sundays and would like to get some.

Seoul ( formerly Traralgon)-  It's been more than five years since I left Gippsland, but I still really miss Life FM. I was listening when there was only a one-hour-long loop on all day. Life FM introduced me to good CCM and the mix is better than anything I have heard anywhere else. Hallelujah for your ministry. I listen when I occasionally visit the area but other than that I am missing out. Please bring us a live stream as soon as possible.

Bairnsdale-   It is with much pleasure the committee of Bairnsdale Community Lighthouse forwards the enclosed cheque. Thank you for all that you, your staff and volunteers do. God bless you all and keep up the good work.

Leongatha-  You are doing a great job and God willing will continue to do it into the future.

Yarragon- Hope this small donation helps. We pray for you all at Life FM - especially for those finances. God bless - Keep up the excellent work and believe.

Willow Grove-  Your radio station has been my saving grace. I do not have a CD but listen to you in the car. I would love to give a donation but am a single mum and really struggling.

Program News

A new voice for Behind the Music! We welcome Debbie Trevaskis-Maxwell onto our team as the new presenter of Behind the Music. Debbie has long been a supporter of Life FM and it’s great to have her join us in this ministry. You can hear the story behind the songs on Behind the Music, Mon to Fri at 8:30am and 6pm. Coming up - Amy Grant, Michael W Smith, Randy Stonehill and Steve Camp.

------------
Life FM's Randell Green and Philip Elms jumped into their cars and traveled to Melbourne for the Paul Colman Trio (or PC 3) concert, Melbourne being one of the stops on the band’s Return tour.

After a few years of not performing together and Grant Norsworthy and Paul Colman now residing and working in the United States, the group showed they have not lost any of their finesse or skill when it comes to performing. Sometimes humorous (singing Kookaburra sits in the old gum tree in the middle of their cover of Men At Work's Down Under song), sometimes poignant and thought provoking while at the same time entertaining and connecting with the audience, a Paul Colman Trio concert is one you wont regret going to.

Randell's interview with Grant Norsworthy from PC 3

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God's Own Country WAS back on the airwaves...for a short time
But unfortunately due to ill health host Don Taylor has had to hang up the headphones. We pray for a speedy recovery and good health.

-----------------

Bernie’s Moving!

We’ve decided to move A Different Perspective from 3pm Mon to Fri to 7:45pm Monday to Friday, from Monday 1st August.

We’d love to get some feedback on this - so let us know what you think.
------------------

Prayer and Praise

Praise God for His Continued Blessings
Despite the low income God has enabled us to keep going - ever trusting in Him to provide our needs.
We have received a grant from the Community Broadcasting Foundation which has been a literal “God-send”!

Pray for New Sponsors
Please continue to pray that Gippsland businesses will see the value of advertising on Life FM and take advantage of our Tax Buster Bonus! Please also pray for wisdom and inspiration as we develop new sponsor sales packages.

Prayer for Ears to Hear
Please continue to pray for those listening to Life FM to be touched by the Spirit of God though the music and the messages.

Pray for Continued Financial Support
Our membership is still low and circumstances have seen a decline in regular donations. Please pray for those who have not renewed their memberships to be prompted to do so and we ask for the provision of more new members and or donors and Ministry Mates.

Prayer for Staff
We have a small core team who are paid part time and also volunteer extra time. Please pray for them to stay focused and to keep trusting God for His provision. Pray also for those who volunteer when they are able.

Prayer for the Board
Pray for wisdom as we head into the next phase of our journey. We also have 3 vacancies on our Board of 10 which makes it difficult to hold meetings if we don’t have a quorum of 6.

Life FM Newsletter April 2011 - PDF version

Easter - A Time of Renewal

Two years ago Gippsland and indeed much of Victoria was still reeling from the devastating fires that ripped through so many towns, touching all of us in one way or another. We are still feeling the repercussions of the fires and now more recently the floods and other catastrophic world events.

At this Easter time I have been reminded once again of those rich verses in Ecclesiastes…everything has a season.

We are so grateful to the 83 people who donated $35,879.60 during our Fools For Christ Appeal. I also want to thank my team who rallied once again to take on a mountain of extra work to keep us on air. If so few can give so much - imagine if everyone was able to give a little! Our smallest donation was $4.50 and our largest $3,000 - each one was received with a prayer of thanks (and a tax deductible receipt!)

We are still short for this year’s budget which has been trimmed tightly. We have enough for another two and a half months. This is an ongoing issue for many ministries, so we rely on people to be “Kingdom Minded”. We are still looking at different ways to vary our income streams. At the moment we rely heavily on donations and sponsorship advertising. If you have any ideas we’d love to hear from you. Thanks for your continued support. We REALLY need Christian radio in Gippsland - pray about how you can make that happen.

Through it all - the one constant, never changing reality is that Jesus Christ is with us. He was put into the tomb - dead. But as we see the new growth around us - rising from the ashes of fire and the sludge of the floods, imagine what it was like as He rose on that wonderful Sunday morning!
We KNOW He lives! Take time this Easter to do a seasonal checkup…..
Deb

What Time Is It For You? 

1 For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven. 2 A time to be born and a time to die. A time to plant and a time to harvest. 3 A time to kill and a time to heal. A time to tear down and a time to build up. 4 A time to cry and a time to laugh. A time to grieve and a time to dance. 5 A time to scatter stones and a time to gather stones. A time to embrace and a time to turn away. 6 A time to search and a time to quit searching. A time to keep and a time to throw away.7 A time to tear and a time to mend. A time to be quiet and a time to speak. 8 A time to love and a time to hate. A time for war and a time for peace. Ecclesiastes 3

Tax Buster Bonus for Sponsor-Advertising

We want to help small business in Gippsland and so we are offering 30% discount off our regular sponsorship-advertising packages until 30th May. We also have Custom packages for Churches and Small Businesses.
All Life FM sponsor-spots are professionally produced and we give lots of bonuses! Call Deb on 5143 0355 or email sales@lifefm.com.au for more info on this exciting offer!

In The Spirit of Mate-ship

As we remember Anzac Day and consider what mate-ship is all about - what better time than now to become a Life FM Ministry Mate!

Sign up by the 30th of June because donations of $2 or more to Life FM are tax deductible and you’ll also receive free one year membership to Life FM’s Coffee Club!

Each month Coffee Club members have a chance of winning some great prizes. A Ministry Mate can pledge a regular monthly amount to Life FM and receive a tax deduction for doing that.

So help out Life FM like you’d help your mates and receive a tax deduction at the same time, that’s not un-Australian is it?

….it all ads up - as we saw with our Fools for Christ Appeal. Imagine if we could get 20 people to sign up for $1000 per month!

Can you spare a dollar a day? If we all join together we CAN make a difference!

New Programs

God's Own Country is back on the airwaves...starting Sunday 1st May.
After a break of almost 4 years, host Don Taylor returns to the airwaves with the award winning radio program featuring positive country music promoting faith and family.
Don says "thank you to everyone for your support, prayers and encouragement in the down time. It's great to be back...."
You can hear God's Own Country on Life FM Saturdays at 3pm and again Sundays at 7pm and you’ll find a link on our website

Favourite Hymns will be featured on Wednesday nights from 8 to 10pm. We had lots of request for some old favourites so we’ll do our best to feature some real golden classics. You’ll still hear Chuck Swindoll at 8pm and Chuck Missler at 9pm from Wed 4th May.

Interest in the Prophecy and the End Times is at an all time high. From the Middle East crisis to birds and fish dying to war and rumors of war it leaves a person wondering if the world is coming to an end, will they be ready?

The Left Behind series tells the riveting stories of those "left behind after the Rapture to experience the Tribulation until Christ's return. Even though it's fiction, the gospel truth is communicated through each story. Over 63 million have been impacted by the Left Behind series with many coming to Christ.

You can hear the entire series on Life FM Mon to Thurs at 7am with repeats at 7 and 10pm (started Mon 18th April).

FEEDBACK: Let us know what you think about our new programs, or time changes. This is your radio station so we need your input. Call the Feedback line– 5143 0357 and leave a message- or just drop us a line to PO Box 1378, Sale VIC 3853

Life FM Newsletter March 2011 - PDF version

No Life FM for Easter! ?

Even though the fig trees have no blossoms and there are no grapes on the vines; even though the olive crop fails,
and the fields lie empty and barren; even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty,
yet I will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation! Habakkuk 3:17,18

Once again we write to you as we face the very real possibility that Life FM will be off air before Easter. The Board will be meeting again on Mon 4th April to decide the next step - so our challenge is to raise $60,000 by then! Consider what it would be like to lose this ministry. So many have been touched by the music and programs broadcast over the last seven years. In February 2009 we were off air during the fires—here’s some of the feedback we received….

Lucknow God bless you all , hope you are back on air soon Keep up the good work.

Moe Hope you are back on air soon

Belgrave God bless you all in Jesus name and He is Lord. Many 'fire' in scriptures. God wins

Sale I pray that Life FM will be up and running very soon as we miss listening to it.

Rosedale Well done to all the team. I've been missing you Just saying how good it is to have you back on air.

TraralgonGreat to hear the signal back on the radio. Blessings

Lillico It's so good to have you back on the airways again - we missed you. I'm enjoying being back on the internet too - now I can keep in touch more. We are praying for all of you guys down that way who were affected by fire, and of course the Station is always in our prayers. Love to Everyone

TraralgonI became a member of LifeFM last year. Thank you for your recent emails when the bushfires were such a threat. Great communication work. It was sad that LifeFM was down for so long after that. I pray that everyone bounces back - to God - so that lots of positive things come out of this. All the best

Cape Paterson Keep it up, you’re doing a great job

Leongatha The station has been playing some very appropriate songs with words that reflect community feeling after the bush-fires and all the other confusing / suffering / insecurities / questions etc.

Warragul We felt "lost" without Life while you were off air during the fires and were really glad when you came back on.

Please don’t let this ministry fade away -

Deadline 4th ApriDeadline April

We come to you at this time - our "dry" period between Christmas and Easter ....but our "drought" has been a bit longer this past year.

The Oct 10 Appeal raised $5263.90 well short of the much needed $29,000 target.

We urgently need $60,000 - can you help?

It currently costs around $20,000 per month or $650 per day to keep Life FM on air. We didn't reach our targets last year so this year we have been struggling from month to month once again - BUT God has been faithful and we are still here!!!

Things are not impossible - together we can make an impact.

Thank you so much to everyone who has already donated and partnered with Life FM.
Your donations and support mean so much to us personally, ensuring the future growth of our 24/7 ministry as we continue to broadcast a message of hope across Gippsland.

We need you help to balance our budget and only God knows our future needs.

If you have not yet donated I would like to invite you, as God leads, to step out in faith and partner with us in this vital ministry.

Will you be part of the miracle this year?

Donate online (lifefm.com.au) or call the office with your credit card details 5143 0355.

Please, please, please don’t let this challenge be answered by someone else. If you think Life FM has anything to offer the community then we urge you to act now, before it’s too late.

Life FM Newsletter February 2011 - PDF version

Trusting In Jesus

"In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. " Proverbs 3:6

There's so much that has happened since we started broadcasting in October 2003. If you would like to hear first-hand some of the exciting stories of how God has moved to bring this radio station to Gippsland - give me a call on 5143 0355 or email deb@lifefm.com.au and we'll make arrangements for a visit to your club, group, school or church.

We’re also on the look-out for new high-profile spots to park our trailer. If you have a paddock close to a main highway or know of someone who does give us a call. We also have a few large signs that could be put up somewhere suitable.

We are so thankful for all that we have been blessed with - even though it isn’t an easy road, it’s such a joy to know we are spreading the hope of Jesus across our region.

Our thoughts and prayers are with so many who have been devastated by the floods, cyclones, fires and the civil unrest we are witnessing in our country and overseas. Now, more than ever, we need to lean on the everlasting arms of our Lord and Saviour.

AGM & 7th Birthday

We had a fabulous night at the Sale Baptist Church for our 11th AGM and there was much celebrating for our 7th birthday—including of course the CAKE!!

The regular team L-R Randell, Robyn Bruhn, Philip Elms, Deb, Yvonne and David Stockill

GCB Board 2011

For the first time since 2005 we have a full Board! Praise God! This is a huge answer to prayer. The new Board has selected their preferred portfolios and is keen to get into action. Please pray for this new team as they tackle new legislation relating to Governance and as they continue to work on the strategic direction of Gippsland Christian Broadcasters Inc. More information on lifefm.com.au/aboutus

Prayer and Praise

Praise God for His Continued Blessings
We have skimmed close to being in the red...but God has always provided what we need - never to excess!

Pray for Continued Financial Support
Our membership is still low and circumstances have seen a decline in regular donations. Please pray for those who have not re-newed their memberships to be prompted to do so and we ask for the provision of more new members and or donors and Ministry Mates.

Prayer for Staff
We have a small team who are paid part time and also volunteer extra time. Please pray for them to stay focused and to keep trusting God for His provision.

Praise God for the Board
New faces, new talents and new enthusiasm. Please pray for the wisdom to take Life FM into the next 10 years!

Pray for the upcoming Fundraisers
It’s exciting to have people take on these projects - please pray for them as they proceed with the plans.

Praise God for the Feedback
We love to hear your stories so please pass them on so we can share.

Prayer for Ears to Hear
Please continue to pray for those listening to Life FM to be touched by the Spirit of God though the music and the messages.

A Note From The Treasurer

Last year we told you about the grave financial state of Life FM. Many responded to that call and for that we give thanks to God!

In the last few months we have had only a few new members sign up, and some existing members have not yet renewed their memberships.

At the time of writing this we have 341 CURRENT members and 41 overdue for renewal. It is vitally important that we maintain our membership numbers for a number of reasons, mainly;
1. We need the revenue that comes from membership fees. This is YOUR radio station – you can support it and keep it going as a witness and outreach in Gippsland by maintaining your membership;

2. Our licence is reviewed by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) every 5 years – having a strong and growing membership base is one way of showing ACMA there is interest in and support for Life FM.

Many people across Gippsland and beyond have been very generous with their tax deductible donations. However our last two appeals have fallen well short of the targets. We’re still only barely meeting our ongoing costs.

If you want local Christian Radio to continue we urge you to get involved. Here are some suggestions;
• Suggest to your Minister that March be Life FM Month at your church and take up special donations;
• Encourage family and friends to sign up as members (and make sure you renew your own membership!);
• Talk to people you know who run a business to encourage them to take out a sponsorship;
• Sign up as a Life FM Ministry Mate (see page 9);
• Let us know of high-profile (but low cost!) places where we can erect signage or park the Life FM trailer;
• Organise a fund-raiser – every little bit helps;
• Get actively involved as a volunteer;
• Pray for those involved on the ground.

Please, please, please don’t let this challenge be answered by someone else. If you think Life FM has anything to offer the community then we urge you to act now, before it’s too late.

Cameron Rash

Fundraisers

Christian Women’s Luncheon
Come along and enjoy a beautiful lunch and meet with other Christian women in our community.

Station Manager Deb Bye will speak about Life FM’s vision, purpose and programs and local guest artist Liz Loria will sing for us. Help to keep local Christian Radio on air in Gippsland and enjoy yourself at the same time!

Saturday 19th March 12.30pm
Venue: The Morwell Club, 136 Helen St, Morwell
Bookings: Phone: (03) 5143 0355 - RSVP: 9th March, 2011
Cost $25 regular, $20 concession

RITCHIES COMMUNITY BENEFITS
Are you supporting Life FM through Ritchie’s IGA Supermarkets?
If not sign up for Life FM and every time you buy groceries Life FM BENEFITS! From Aug 2002 to Jan 2011 we have received $4498.34! It’s slow but every cent helps keep us broadcasting.

DATE CLAIMER
There will be a sausage sizzle at Bunnings in Morwell Sat 23rd July 9am - 4pm.
More info soon.

We Need Volunteers

We need people to get involved with our committees. Please consider joining the prayer team or the fundraising committee or maybe consider becoming a Life Rep for your church or group.

Be the person within your group or fellowship known as the contact person for information and enthusiasm about Life FM.

As this is a new venture, we are open to ideas to improve Life FM’s awareness program. Call the office for more info 5143 0355 or email gippsland@lifefm.com.au

Programs

After reaching the major milestone of 500 shows, friend of Life FM, Wes Jay from Woodlands Media has decided to end production. We’re sad to see the end of this exceptional program and it leaves a huge gap in our lineup. We have scheduled more “up-tempo” youth styled music for this time slot and have some plans on the burner - so stay tuned.

The Book Readings and Radio Drama continue to be very popular and we are pleased to announce that we’ll have more exciting titles from oasisaudio.com again this year.

In the meantime, we thought we’d repeat a couple of favourites and so …..
The Hiding Place begins 9th Feb 7am (repeated at 7 & 10pm)
...the story of an old watchmaker in Holland, Casper Ten Boom and his two spinster daughters, Corrie and Betsie. Simple, ordinary people. Yet these three unlikely heroes became the centre of a major underground operation during World War II. Their operation: to hide Jewish refugees from the occupying Germans. The Hiding Place is an unforgettable true story that shows the cost of standing for justice and humanity in the face of evil.

The Life of Jesus: Dramatic Eyewitness Accounts from The Luke Reports begins 24th Feb 7am (repeated at 7 & 10pm)
Luke set out to discover from those who were eye-witnesses all about the controversial Christ. Enter into the mind, heart, and experiences of this first-century physician as he uncovers the full story of Jesus' life and ministry. This "movie" with cinema-quality sound and original music scores plays on the biggest screen of all - your imagination. Experience the power of story!

Summer Team News

             
The many faces of “our Randell”! While most people spend their spare time relaxing, working around the home or enjoying a hobby, Life FM's Randell Green trains with the Army Reserve. Sometimes he gets to carry the radio on top of all his other gear as they trudge through the bush (left), or he’s called up to assist with flood preparation (right) - And this is fun? The REAL fun is at Life FM (middle) where RG keeps us entertained with his wit and wisdom.

Philip likes to wear his undies on the outside (at Beach Mission) - super hero style! Phil is our super-hero keeping things running behind the scenes. He’s a whiz on the computers!

...meanwhile ...Deb took time off to get 2 new knees! Thanks to modern technology she can now work from home - until she can tackle our steps again AND she’s been blessed with a few months with her mum visiting during recovery!

                                  
..and Yvonne (right) and David (left) have kept things humming at the office - that’s TEAM WORK!

Sponsorship-advertising is tax deductible
Call 5143 0355 or sales@lifefm.com.au

We understand how difficult things are at the moment so during March we are offering 30% discount on our already very low sponsorship-advertising packages.
All Life FM sponsor-spots are professionally produced and we give lots of bonuses!

Call Deb on 5143 0355 or email sales@lifefm.com.au for more info on this exciting offer!

Life FM Newsletter October 2010  - PDF version

7th Birthday Celebrations

It’s seven years since Life FM started broadcasting and we’re celebrating our birthday!
All Life FM members are invited to attend our AGM and birthday to party in style at the Sale Baptist Church, Princes Highway, Sale -Thursday 21st October @ 7.00pm.

Station partner Christian Bookworld will have a stall with 15% off for all Life FM members.

If you’re not a member - join on the night - $33 or $22 concession - you’ll receive a member’s pack, FREE supper and you’ll have voting rights at the meeting!

RSVP (for catering and printing ) by Sat 17th Oct - call 5143 0355 or email birthday@lifefm.com.au

...But wait there’s more! Station sponsor Phillip Island Nature Parks are giving you the opportunity to win a 3 Park Pass Ticket that will take you to the world famous Sunset Penguin Parade, the Nobbies Centre, Koala Conservation Centre and the historical Churchill Island Heritage Farm.

Listen to Life FM for details or check the web - lifefm.com.au
Winners will be announced at Life FM's AGM on 21st October.

See you there!
Deb

Prayer and Praise

Praise God for His Continued Blessings
Everyday we see God’s hand in the work that we do - it is such a blessing to be part of this ministry!

Pray for the Board
Please pray for God’s prompting to those He would have serve on the GCB Board .

Pray for Technical Issues
Pray for Ralph who is working on repairs to our transmitter.

Prayer for Ears to Hear
Please continue to pray for those listening to Life FM to be touched by the Spirit of God.

           Birthday Appeal

As we celebrate 7 years and move into the next seven, we need to update the website and replace some equipment as well as continue to pay the day to day bills.

Life FM’s ministry is to tell people about Jesus through music and programs - YOU are an integral part in this listener supported ministry!

We are aiming for $27,000 (keeping our "7" theme!) by 21st October. The final tally will be announced at the Birthday Party / AGM

You can make a donation ANYTIME to help keep Life FM running.

Thanks Plenty Valley FM!

Early September we noticed that our broadcast volume had decreased and when our tech checked things out it was revealed that part of our transmitter was not operating properly and we were down to 1/3 output.

After 40,000 hours of continuous operation we really couldn't complain but we needed to fix it. An email to one of the Community Radio peak bodies we belong to - the Southern Community Media Assoc., quickly provided a loan unit from Plenty Valley FM.

The unit was picked up and installed so ours can be checked over and hopefully repaired. Please pray for this to be an expedient process. Big thanks to Ray at SCMA and to Plenty Valley FM and of course to our tech, Ralph!

Celebrations

Our newsletter mailing team from last newsletter had a bonus for morning tea! We celebrated Robyn Bruhn’s birthday (centre front).
With over 600 newsletters to be folded and prepared for the post - it was a welcome break. Yvonne Hope and Hilary Rash (back L to R) and Alison Clarke, Robyn and Bev Lade (L to R)

Life FM 11th Annual General Meeting - for all the info on our meeting and birthday

Life FM Newsletter August 2010 - PDF version

June Appeal Thanks

Praise God - we are still here! Thanks to those who contributed to our June Appeal - $12,014.90.

We now have 10 Ministry Mates who donate monthly, two who donate fortnightly and one weekly and six churches who have made donations in response to a letter we sent to all the churches on our database.

You could be a Life FM Ministry Mate - donate a regular amount - usually monthly - but we’re flexible. We suggest a dollar a day, but you can pledge more or less depending on your circumstances and at the end of each
financial year we will send you a receipt for claiming on your tax return.

We currently have enough in the coffers to stay on air till December. It’s very difficult to plan a budget when we are reliant on God for the income. We are seeking other streams of income and encourage you to
participate not only by donating when you can but maybe organising a fundraiser or become a Life Rep in your church.

If you have a heart for the gospel and for evangelising in our community and a desire for Biblical teaching and music to be available for everyone, please prayerfully consider becoming a Life FM Rep. You would be a
spokesperson, or at least a vital link in the lines of communication to your church fellowship with awareness of Life FM? If you would like more info about becoming a Life Rep in your church or group please call the office 5143 0355.

Governance is Ministry - How Can You Serve?

The Annual General Meeting (and 7th Birthday Party!) is fast approaching - Thursday 21st October, 7pm at the Sale Baptist Church and we will be facing six vacancies on our Board of nine elected positions.

So what does it mean to be on the Board of Gippsland Christian Broadcasters?

Skills are important but decisions made by the Board are collective. It’s not necessary to be an accountant or lawyer - what we need is “collective common sense”. There are competency standards for being on a Board. They can be summed up - ACT REASONABLY with HONESTY and IN GOOD FAITH.

We need diversity - in denominational representation. Our Rules of Assoc. allow for up to three from any one denomination. We need geographical diversity - and for those who would need to travel to
meetings - which are held in different parts of our region - we are
introducing video conferencing.We need gender diversity. Come October our current Board representatives
will be two men and two women - which is indeed diverse however we need more members as a quorum is six!

We have a strategic plan for the next five years so we need people who are focused on our

VISION: Reaching out with the message of hope found only in Jesus to residents and visitors to Gippsland.

And our MISSION: To bring Christian Radio and associated media to the people of Gippsland.

We are all learning, and good governance is a part of that plan. Above all we need to ensure that our focus is always on Jesus. We have been gathering Governance material from a number of sources for training, including
Christian Management Australia who have developed 12 Essential Standards for Christian Boards. This ministry is moving forward and we need to be informed and act with integrity, always relying of Jesus to lead the way.

NOMINATIONS - DEADLINE 13th October

If you wish to nominate someone for the Board (Committee of Management), please call the office and we’ll email or post one out to you - or you can download a form.

**Please note that to nominate someone you must be a financial member of Life FM over the age of eighteen (Rule 24.2)

The signed nomination form must arrive at the Life FM office no later than 5:00pm on Wednesday 13th October.
Details of the nominees will then be posted on the Life FM web site on Thursday 14th October and also displayed at the AGM (Rule 12.6).

Please include a photo with the nomination.

Voting will only be required if there is more than the required number of nominees.

Contact the office for the Board Info Kit so there are no surprises! Good governance and accountability will help to keep Life FM on air in Gippsland.

Please pray for those who may consider nomination - It could be YOU!

STRATEGIC PLANNING DAY: from left: Geoff Mansfield (term expired), Cameron Rash, Clinton Tepper, Deb Bye, Heather Toms, Peter Devonshire (term expired). Rod Hardy (term expired) not in attendance

Prayer and Praise

Praise God for His Continued Blessings
- for a renewed enthusiasm for the ministry and for the donations we continue to receive
Pray for the Board
Please continue to pray for wisdom and guidance for the Board as we approach new challenges for funding Life FM. Please also pray for those considering nomination to fill vacant positions.
Praise God for the Feedback
We love to hear your stories so please pass them on so we can share.
Prayer for Staff
Please pray for cover for the team as they are in the “frontline” - for the health of themselves and their families.
Also please pray for God to touch the hearts of the people He would have work at the station as we seek new people to assist in this ministry - both at the station and on the Board.
Please pray for Deb as she prepares to have both knees replaced in November. While plans have been made to keep things going, it is always difficult for the rest of the team when one is away for any length of time. Please pray for a speedy recovery.
Praise God for New Staff
David Stockill has joined us in Production after a long search. David comes from Drouin and travels to Sale twice a week. Please pray protection for him as he travels.Praise also for Jessica Pillay and Steph Dent who have joined the Admin team and have been a real asset to the station.
Prayer for Ears to Hear
Please continue to pray for those listening to Life FM to be touched by the Spirit of God.

Sponsorship-advertising is tax deductible

Ask about our very reasonable sponsorship-advertising packages.

We play no more than 2 ad-spots in a row for maximum impact. Your business will also be promoted through our bi-monthly newsletter which is posted to over 600 members and donors across the region and through our website.

Long term sponsors also have their logo and ad-spot audio online - check it out at lifefm.com.au and on facebook.

Ask about our Birthday discount!  Call Deb today 5143 0355 or sales@lifefm.com.au

Life FM Newsletter June/July 2010 - PDF version

June Appeal 21st - 25th

Can you believe it’s tax time again! This last 12 months has gone so quickly - they say time flies as you get older!
Things have been tight over the last 12 months for all of us. Here at Life FM we’ve been monitoring month to month as funds have gone very low a number of times - but praise God - we are still here!

We currently have enough in the coffers to stay on air till September.

Our operating costs are significant because we are on Mt Tassie. That is where we are licensed to be (part of the Government’s placement of this particular frequency in the Licence Area Plan).

Our other main expense is salaries. Although we only have 4 paid part-time positions – this core is enough to make sure we stay on air with the quality you have come to expect. Volunteers come and go but the jobs remain the same and need to be done so we need a stable core to ensure that happens.

Please consider how you can help to keep this vital ministry alive!
Deb

He will give you all you need from day to day if you make
the Kingdom of God your primary concern Luke 12:31

Donate ONline...

Life FM is now on facebook - Life FM Gippsland 103.9

Keep up-to-date with the latest news and you can donate online too!

If you’re not a facebook person you can still donate online through the website - lifefm.com.au

When the Going Gets Tough…...

Thanks to the 91 people who attended our Special Meeting last month. This was a great time of sharing testimonies and praying about the future of the station.

There were many ideas and suggestions for fundraising and moving the station forward - all relying on people power to get things moving.

Praise God - we have had some results!
We updated (to the best of our knowledge) our church database and sent letters to 165 churches - explaining our financial and volunteer status. We offered some practical ways to involve the churches and we realise that we need to take a more personal approach....

So then we organised...a meeting to call together all those who have an interest in becoming a Life Rep in their church. We now have 38 people interested and 5 forms returned with kits delivered. More info on this project on page 5. Policies and procedures are being formulated as we develop the communications protocols. Lucy Elms (Churchill) is assisting with this as is Johanna Haasjes (Leongatha).

Kath Ipsen and I will be contacting churches in the near future as we aim to get around as many churches as possible.

Praise God and pray for our team as we move forward - fundraising next!

Work Experience

From time to time we have had Media students from Monash Uni spend time with us doing work experience. Last month we were joined by Liarna La Porta who is in her final year of a Bachelor of Journalism. We received this note from Liarna …

I wanted to be a journalist since I was 15. The best part of working at Life FM was getting to know the lovely staff and volunteers!!

It was also great learning about how it all comes together behind the scenes and very touching to see how much support not only community radio receives but also Christian radio.

I now wish to apply for part time positions at radio stations around Melbourne as I think radio is the best media. it's timeless and reaches all demographics while being laid back and fun at the same time!! Thanks again for the opportunity!

If you know someone doing Media studies this is an excellent opportunity to gain “hands-on” experience in radio and who knows maybe a job!
Call Deb for more info about working at Life FM - 5143 0355

Sarah Possart (who started with us on Work Experience from Monash) has moved on to go overseas…The team gathered for a farewell lunch - L - R Sarah, Robyn, Yvonne and Randell - Deb taking photo!

Life Reps Needed

• Have you got a heart for the gospel and for evangelising in our community?
• 
  Do you have a desire for Biblical teaching and music to be available for everyone?
• 
  Are you willing to be a spokesperson, or at least a vital link in the lines of communication to your church fellowship with awareness of Life FM?
  
• Are you a current member of Life FM?
  

Then please prayerfully consider becoming a Life FM Rep.
If you would like more info about becoming a Life Rep in your church or group please call the office 5143 0355.

Levi Live!

Levi McGrath joined Deb in the studio from 8pm on Sat 12th June as part of his “Children of War” National Tour sponsored by World Vision.

Levi spent five months working with former child soldiers in Uganda and is passionate about the World Vision Child Rescue Project.

Prayer and Praise

Praise God for His Continued Blessings
- for a productive and encouraging special meeting and the activities since and a renewed enthusiasm for the ministry.

Pray for the Board
Please continue to pray for wisdom and guidance for the Board as we approach new challenges for funding Life FM.

Praise God for the Feedback
We love to hear your stories so please pass them on so we can share.

Prayer for Staff
Please pray for cover for the team as they are in the “frontline” - for the health of themselves and their families.
Also please pray for God to touch the hearts of the people He would have work at the station as we seek new people to assist in this ministry - both at the station and on the Board

Prayer for Ears to Hear
Please continue to pray for those listening to Life FM to be touched by the Spirit of God.

Life FM Newsletter May/June 2010 - PDF version

Urgent Special Members (and Friends) Meeting

The Board of Gippsland Christian Broadcasters is calling all members and interested supporters to an URGENT Special Meeting to prayer and to discuss the future of Life FM in Gippsland.

We need ten members (minimum) to be present at St Mark’s Anglican Church Hall in Rosedale on Wednesday 12th May 7pm as we seek direction from God and our membership about how to proceed with very little funds and a diminishing pool of volunteers.

It’s crunch time! With our March appeal just over we’re already needing more funds. The Board has a few ideas but we need your input too - your commitment and your prayers to plan what to do next.

Please join us in Rosedale for this very important meeting. Mark it in your diary now. If you need transport contact the office and we’ll try to arrange some car pooling. Also please let us know if you are able to offer a lift to someone.

We need to come together or we will lose this vital ministry.

Deb

Our God is faithful and even though we know many are “doing it tough” - He still provides.

“He will give you all you need from day to day if you make the Kingdom of God your primary concern”

Luke 12:31

We KNOW that He will send the people HE wants to be involved with this ministry. For the past 12 months we’ve been asking Him to provide us with more people to learn production and people to serve on the Board. For more information on these positions go to Jobs.

We are also asking Him to provide much needed funds to keep the station running.

We need people who will faithfully pray for those who listen to Life FM - many who don’t know Jesus - for hearts to be touched and also for those involved in getting the message out, for protection from the darkness that is always close by for those working on the front line of ministry.

How are you serving? Ask God if He wants you more involved in this ministry.

ORDINARY PEOPLE DOING EXTRAORDINARY THINGS BECAUSE WE LOVE AN EXTRAORDINARY GOD

Prayer and Praise

Praise God for His Continued Blessings
We have skimmed close to being in the red, but God has always provided what we need - never to excess!

Prayer for the Special Meeting
For wisdom and a renewed enthusiasm for the ministry.

Prayer for Staff

Please pray for God to touch the hearts of the people He would have work at the station as we seek new people to assist in this ministry.

Pray for the Board
Please continue to pray for wisdom and guidance for the Board as we approach new challenges for funding Life FM.

Praise God for the Feedback
We love to hear your stories so please pass them on so we can share.

Prayer for Ears to Hear
Please continue to pray for those listening to Life FM to be touched by the Spirit of God.

We press on to the Hope that is in us...

On the 12th May 1999 I hired a computer to start this ministry. The 15th May is the 11th anniversary of the establishment of the Life FM office in Ray St, Sale.

By May 2001 we were set up in the 2 front rooms of our current abode in Raymond St. We have come a long way since then. Many steps forward, some delays, some side steps as we tried different things - but all the time moving forward. Many people have come and gone during the past 11 years and we are so grateful for the input they have had in getting us to where we are today.

We had great plans to be a self-sustaining ministry BUT God had other plans it seems - to keep us on our knees and to keep Him in the centre of the target of the prize set before us, to reach Gippsland with the words of hope, encouragement and LIFE that only comes from Jesus!

As we enter this time of year (tax time) we ask you once again to think about why we need local Christian community radio in Gippsland. We know that things have been tougher than usual for many with years of drought, then floods and then fires.  Add to that more unemployment and the economic crisis that has affected so many - internationally the earthquakes, and the fear...What better time to tell people about the HOPE we have in Jesus.

As the end of the financial year approaches the Board has set a goal to raise $90,000 by 25th June – we’ll have more information about our financial situation at the Special Meeting for Members and Friends on Wednesday 12th May.

We want and need to continue to grow Life FM, however in light of current economic conditions we believe it is wise to maintain our current level for now. Please click here for some examples of how you can help us reach this goal.

Deb

Urgent Special Meeting Agenda

St Mark’s Anglican Church Hall, Rosedale
Corner of Albert and Wood Streets
7pm - Wed 12th May 2010

AGENDA

Introduction by President

Devotion/focus

Staff testimonies

Listener testimonies

Life FM current status report
- financial
- volunteers/staff

Options for discussion and prayer

Prayer Time

Feedback
Cuppa

Please RSVP for catering and printing to 5143 0355 by Monday 10th May. 

A quorum of 10 members (not counting the Board ) is required for this meeting.

Reach Out with Hope and LIFE!

You may wonder how your small contribution can help. To help you see how your donation can work towards our goal of $90,000 we've broken it down into some more realistic figures:

If 90 people give $1,000 once, = $90,000

If 180 people give $500 once, = $90,000

If 150 people give $50 a month for one year, = $90,000

If 87 people give $20 weekly for one year, = $90,480

If 174 people give $10 weekly for one year, = $90,480

We currently have 374 members.  Please click here to see how you can help. 

Life FM Newsletter April 2010 - PDF version

   Happy Easter, from everyone at Life FM!

Miracles Do Happen!

They did it!
36 hours without sleep!

Life FM’s financial situation has been fairly grim this year, prompting the Sleepless In The Studio fundraiser on the 5th & 6th March.

I want to thank all those who made this event possible - too many to list but you know who you are (and so does God!!).

Thanks in particular to Sarah and Randell, who volunteered to go live for 36 hours in the studio. It was a marvelous effort and a great team builder, as Yvonne and I were able to support and encourage (and get some sleep!).  Randell’s son Luke and his mate Cameron also managed to stay awake for most of time and assisted on the phones.

Money starting coming in as you received the last newsletter so by the time we started the appeal we already had $10,000!

Our final tally was $22,007.72

We are still about $65,000 short for this year’s budget which has been trimmed tightly. This is an ongoing issue for all community broadcasters but we do have God on our side! We are looking at different ways to vary our income streams.At the moment we rely heavily on donations and sponsorship advertising. If you have any ideas we’d love to hear from you.

Thanks for your continued support. We REALLY need Christian radio in Gippsland - pray about how you can make that happen.

Deb

Farewell Sarah

We are sad to say goodbye. Sarah will be leaving us at the end of April. It’s been such a blessing to have Sarah working with us. She came in Sept 2007 on Work Experience and stayed on as a volunteer for six months before joining the team as a part time employee. We have shared her 21st birthday, her graduation from Monash Uni with a BA (Journalism) and other milestones.

Sarah started working in production, preparing our programs for broadcast and 12 months later she started broadcasting community notices. We noticed over those months that a lot of Veggie Tales music and laughter seemed to be constantly coming from the production area - it seemed Sarah had found her niche. In December 08 Sarah presented a very Veggie Christmas and since then she has been presenting Sarah’s Mixed Veggie Adventures - have a listen Sat 8am and 4pm on Life FM.

Sarah is heading off for an adventure of her own overseas and we wish her God’s richest blessings.

Urgent Production Vacancies and Other Jobs

It takes many people and much work behind the scenes to keep Life FM on air.

Life FM is primarily run on computers and thanks to former volunteer Beth Harris we have efficient systems established which enable us to network all the PCs and work by remote when necessary. Now that Sarah is leaving too, we find ourselves in a position of needing someone else to take on these roles as we grow and continue to reach out across Gippsland.

Also, as part of our risk management strategy we are also seeking someone to train as Station Manager. Succession planning is very important in a ministry such as ours so please pray that God will provide the “right” person.

For more info on these positions and others click here.

Prayer and Praise

Praise God for His Continued Blessings
We have skimmed close to being in the red, but God has always provided what we need - never to excess!

Praise God for the S.I.T.S Fundraiser
What a blessing for us as a team and for the station!

Prayer for Staff
Please pray for God to touch the hearts of the people He would have work at the station as we seek new people to assist in this ministry.

Pray for the Board
Please continue to pray for wisdom and guidance for the Board as we approach new challenges for funding Life FM.

Praise God for the Feedback
We love to hear your stories so please pass them on so we can share.

Prayer for Ears to Hear
Please continue to pray for those listening to Life FM to be touched by the Spirit of God though the music and the messages.

You Can Help!

There have been so many disasters happening in our world, with so many being left in need. Now more than ever people need to hear about the hope that is only found in Jesus. How will they hear?

YOU are an integral part in this listener supported ministry!

You may not be able to spread the word yourself, but you can assist Life FM to do just that! Your prayers are VITAL for us to continue this ministry to Gippsland.

Unfortunately, like so many things we also need to pay our bills to stay on air. There is no such thing as a small donation - every dollar is precious and appreciated.  Click below to find out more. 

Life FM Newsletter February 2010 - PDF version

We Believe In Miracles - DO YOU??

"In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. " Proverbs 3:6

As I sat to write this newsletter, the chorus of a song written by Don Moen kept echoing in my head and heart.

God will make a way,

Where there seems to be no way
He works in ways we cannot see
He will make a way for me
He will be my guide
Hold me closely to His side
With love and strength for each new day
He will make a way, He will make a way.

We had a staff meeting last week to discuss how we will move forward as we face our most critical financial crisis. I wish you could have been there to see the team excited about the ideas that came forward. The energy despite the difficult circumstances was so encouraging. As we discussed holding a 36 hour fundraiser (details below) the verse above from Proverbs seemed totally appropriate.

God HAS made a way for Life FM over the past 10 years.  People have come and gone, money has come and gone, BUT the one constant has been Jesus! He will never leave us or forsake us! What a promise!!!

YOU are part of our team - we can’t do any of this without you. Whether you pray , donate or volunteer - this is God’s radio station and we are His servants. 

Please prayerfully consider that as you read the rest of this newsletter.

    Deb. 

Sleepless In The Studio

Our finances are critically low, so Randell and Sarah have decided to go short on sleep to help raise some $$$ for Life FM! They tell us they’re going to store up as much sleep as they can before then - still thinking about that one!

It’s going to be a HUGE weekend - from 9am Friday 5th March until 9pm Sat 6th, Randell and Sarah are going to stay awake and broadcast LIVE from the Sale studio. You can sponsor them for each hour they do so and we’ll have hourly updates and photos (time stamped) on the website to keep track of their progress.

We’ll have guests in the studio, local performers including Steve Messer, members of Casual Backflip and more. The Reality Christian Fellowship Traralgon Youth Group will be assisting and we’ll be there (at least Randell and Sarah will) to take your calls and donations ANYTIME during those 36 hours!

Deb and Yvonne will be catching some sleep (someone has to!). They’ll be doing the behind the scenes work and rattling the cage to keep everyone going!

Friday lunchtime the Lions will be BBQing some sausages outside the Sale studio in Raymond St - so come down, have a snag and pop in to say hi and make a donation!

It’s going to be DIFFERENT, it’s going to be MAD and we’re praying that it will raise enough to keep us on air for a while longer!

Call 5143 0355 to keep
Randell and Sarah awake

9am Fri 5th to
9pm Sat 6th March

Emergency Life Support Options!

Is Life FM having an impact on our community? - YES
Is Life FM reaching those who need hope and encouragement? - YES
Is Life FM reaching out to the lost? - YES
IS LIFE FM STRUGGLING FOR FINANCES? - YES

For the ten years since our first public meting, God has continued to be faithful and to supply our needs. Sometimes we have been VERY close to the bone and we are at such a time once again.

Many people across Gippsland and beyond have been very generous with their money. However our last two appeals have fallen well short of the targets.

We’re still only barely meeting our ongoing costs – and now we have to consider and budget for the part time wages to the faithful few who work almost full time for the station.

If you want local Christian Radio to continue we urge you to get involved:

• Suggest to your Minister that March be Life FM Month at your church and take up special donations;
• Encourage family and friends to sign up as members (and make sure you renew your own membership!);
• Talk to people you know who run a business to encourage them to take out a sponsorship;
• Sign up as a Life FM Ministry Mate (see below);
• Let us know of high-profile (but low cost!) places where we can erect signage;
• Organise a fund-raiser – every little bit helps

Please, please, please don’t let this challenge be answered by someone else. If you think Life FM has anything to offer the community then we urge you to act now, before it’s too late.

From the shores of Gallipoli to the back of Burke, Australians have always taken care of their mates.  By becoming a Life FM Ministry Mate you will be supporting Gippsland's only Christian community radio station.

Ministry Mates can contribute as little as one dollar per day. You can sign up online or phone the Life FM office during business hours on 5143 0355.

One dollar a day to support Life FM on air - sign on today!

Call Deb today about this exciting offer. 10% discount off any sponsorship package PLUS 20 days free!

We play no more than 2 ad-spots in a row for maximum impact. Your business will also be promoted through our bi-monthly newsletter which is posted to over 600 members and donors across the region and through our website.

Long term sponsors also have their logo and ad-spot audio online. Offer ends 31st March.

Feedback

Robertson's Beach Been away on holiday, QLD & NSW- so good to be home and put on our fav radio station, inspiring, uplifting and thought provoking. God bless all at life, busy about the Father's business.

Leongatha Just thought I'd drop you a quick note to thank you again for coming along last night and sharing the story of Life FM with us. As I said last night our family listens everyday and look forward to certain programs that run and just love the music through out the day (well most of it anyway!!). Again thank you and hope to meet you again face to face. May God continue to Bless the station just as you guys Bless us.

Wantirna when searching for any radio station some months ago to entertain me that early sleepless morning, I hit on your lively, clean program. Since then I have not searched any more. Wishing you a bright future in this life-giving work.

Newborough Please find enclosed a cheque from our Parish to help with your work in the Gippsland area. We recognise the importance of the work you do with many of the people in our area and trust that you can continue with God's work in this way. Hoping this will encourage you with this needy work.

Prayer and Praise

Praise God for His Continued Blessing
We have skimmed close to being in the red, but God has always provided what we need - never to excess!

Pray for Continued Financial Support
Our membership is still low and circumstances have seen a decline in regular donations.  Please pray for those who have not re-newed their memberships to be prompted to do so and we ask for the provision of more new members and or donors and Ministry Mates.

Pray for Staff
We have a small team who are paid part time and also volunteer extra time. Please pray for them to stay focused and to keep trusting God for His provision.

Pray for the Board
Please continue to pray for wisdom and guidance for the Board as we approach new challenges for funding Life FM.

Pray for the Sleepless In The Studio Fundraiser
This is new and challenging - please pray for all involved to keep on task - and for God to be honored in all that we do.

Praise God for the Feedback
We love to hear your stories so please pass them on so we can share.

Pray for Ears to Hear
Please continue to pray for those listening to Life FM to be touched by the Spirit of God though the music and the messages.

Life FM Newsletter December 2009 - PDF version

Reclaiming Christmas!

Tune in to 103.9FM for the REAL meaning of CHRISTmas!
We’ll join you for lunch 11am - 1pm Christmas Day.

Life FM Board 2010

Peter Devonshire (Apostolic) - President

Glenys Butler (Baptist) - Vice President

Cameron Rash (Presbyterian) - Treasurer

Heather Toms (Anglican)

Clinton Tepper (Baptist) - Secretary

Rob Hescock (Methodist) - Rob resigned in Nov. to take up a new job

Rod Hardy (Apostolic) - appointed in Nov09

Deb Bye - Station Manager

There are 3 vacancies on the Board.
Want to serve God in a new and exciting way?

Don’t be put off because you don’t know anything about the technical aspects of running a radio station – that’s not the role of the board.

If you would like to find out more about becoming a member of the Board (Committee of Management) of Gippsland Christian Broadcasters Inc. - please email secretary@lifefm.com.au or call the office on 5143 0355 and a Prospective Board Member Kit can be sent to you.

Vacancies

PRODUCTION ASSISTANTS NEEDED

If you love working with audio and computers and desire to be a part of an exciting ministry that is making a difference in Gippsland, then email us describing your attention to detail, technical savvy and previous experience with audio editing.

Send to deb@lifefm.com.au - this could be the beginning of a new career!

Celebrate Christmas at CBW!

Life FM and station sponsor Christian Bookworld are having a Christmas party on Wed 23rd Dec from 7.30pm at CBW Traralgon and you're invited!

For one night only there'll be 40% off all Christmas lines including cards, gifts and CD’s and other hourly super specials throughout the evening.

Plus the Life FM team will be there. Try out for the Life FM Christmas Carol Champion - sing a line from your favourite Christmas song and you could win some prizes.

So come along and join the party with Life FM and Christian Bookworld, shop 3 / 27 Princes Street Traralgon, 7.30pm till late on Wednesday 23rd Dec.

10th AGM & 6th Birthday

Life FM’s 10th Annual General Meeting and 6th Birthday Party was a great night for those attending.

We had 20 members, 1 guest, 4 Board members and 21 apologies…with everyone enjoying a fabulous supper catered for by Glutopia Café (next door to Christian Bookworld) in Traralgon.

After the meeting everyone was invited to see the updates in the Traralgon studio in the bookshop and members were given discount vouchers and other goodies for one night only specials at Christian Bookworld.

Prayer and Praise

Praise God for His continued blessings
Everyday we see God’s hand in the work that we do - it is such a blessing to be part of this ministry!

New Members
There have only been three new members since last newsletter for whom we are most grateful - please pray for more members and sponsors.

Christmas Listeners
Please remember those for whom Christmas is a difficult time - as we reach out with the HOPE of Christmas.

Volunteers for the Station and Board
Please pray for God to send those with servant hearts that He would have in these positions. The good Governance of Gippsland Christian Broadcasters Inc. is a vital ministry and essential to ensure that Life FM continues to broadcast the message of Jesus to our region. Please also pray for our production positions to be filled. Finding people with the right skills and the time to commit is a real challenge and this production work is essential to keeping the station running.

Birthday Appeal Results

We celebrated our 6th year on air on 29th October with a birthday party and AGM - this was also the deadline for our Birthday Appeal.

It’s this time of year when donations and memberships really drop off - from November to around March is the “dry” time for many ministries. Everyone is thinking about Christmas and holidays and then before you know it - it’s Easter! Many visitors come to Gippsland over summer so it’s a great time for Life FM to spread the good news about Jesus!

Our October appeal target this year was not reached - but we did receive $6,063.90!

THANK YOU GIPPSLAND!

Our catch phrase is “a better Life for Gippsland” - it is the focus of all that we do to bring the message of the hope of Jesus into the hearts of those who listen to Life FM - YOU are an integral part in this listener supported ministry!

You can make a donation ANYTIME to help keep Life FM running.

Please make sure you put your name as the reference so we can send you a receipt.

Bendigo Bank, Branch : 633-000 Acct : 116708298

Life FM Newsletter October 2009 - PDF version

License Renewed! 

We are very pleased to announce that the Australian Communication and Media Authority has given Life FM a renewed licence to broadcast until 2014!

After an intense process of preparing the licence renewal application last year and providing extra information when requested it seems that Life FM has stood strong with good Governance and operating capability. While things have been tough and staff are often stretched God has brought us through this time of testing.

It has been a good opportunity to reflect on the things we said that Life FM would deliver to our community and it was rewarding to see that we have delivered in most areas. Some things have changed along the way and I’m sure we will continue to improve and expand our capabilities over the next 5 years.

Thank you for your continued support - the letters and emails we receive along with the generous donations and memberships are a large part of the reason our licence was renewed.

We can’t continue this important broadcast ministry without YOU!

As we celebrate our 10th Annual Meeting (can you believe it’s been 10 years! I certainly can’t) and our 6th birthday on air - we ask that you will join us in thanking God for this incredible blessing - to be able to tell Gippsland about Jesus through the ministry of Life FM.

Birthday Party Invite!

It’s six years since Life FM started broadcasting and we’re celebrating our birthday!
All Life FM members are invited to attend our AGM and birthday and party in style at the

Glutopia Café and Ice Creamery
Next to Christian Bookworld in Traralgon

Thursday 29th October

7.30pm

But it doesn’t stop there!

The celebration continues at 9pm next door at station sponsor Christian Bookworld Traralgon with 15% off storewide for all Life FM members.

If you’re not a member, join on the night - $33 or $22 concession - and you’ll receive a member’s pack, FREE supper and you’ll have voting rights at the meeting!

You can also inspect our studio office in Christian Bookworld - there’s been some changes since last year. 

RSVP (for catering) by Monday 26th October call 5143 0355 or email birthday@lifefm.com.au.

Life On Win TV!

Keep an eye out on Win TV for Life FM’s 15 second ad.

It’s been scheduled once a day so we don’t know when it will be on. We’d love you to let us know when you see it.

Thanks to WIN TV for broadcasting the ad - hopefully lots of people will see it and let us know. You can email gippsland@lifefm.com.au - or drop a note to Life FM PO Box 1378, Sale 3853. 

Feedback

Maffra: We have chosen to support Life FM and wish to encourage your work and hope the donation assists you with your ongoing projects.

Moe: Really enjoys life fm and it has introduced her to so many good speakers with messages so pointed and meaningful and she passes the information on to her friends.  Especially Chuck Swindoll and really enjoys Heart & soul.

Newborough: Please find enclosed a cheque from our Parish to help with your work in the Gippsland area. We recognise the importance of the work you do with many of the people in our area and trust that you can continue with God's work in this way. Hoping this will encourage you with this needy work.

Robertson's Beach: What a blessing to be able to tune to Life FM for 7 days a week with 100% Christian music, wonderful info and teaching blocks. I'm so glad God gave us people with inspiration and a vision for Gippsland. Keep on doing as you are. I leave radio on all day in house, garage and car. May God our Father in Heaven bless all in running and support of Life FM. So blessed by you all. I've got a broken right arm! (Praise God - now I've got more time to feed on good music and teaching!)

Sale: Thanks for the Chaplaincy promo...we had a big night, best one for years.

Boolarra: Life FM is the best. I love adventures in Odyssey because its so funny and enjoyable, we listen to it as a family while we eat breakfast and we all enjoy it. I love Life FM, its awesome. Go Life FM.

Won Wron: We are both now retired and had an extended holiday to celebrate(?)! We are both now concession card holders but have included donations. While we were away, one of the things we missed most was listening to Life FM. When I am driving it is always tuned to 103.9!! Balm for the 'Wounded' Soul! I love listening to Odyssey; the notices; Focus on the Family (amazing how often the message speaks to my heart!). Now that we are home, I look forward to listening more! May God honour your service to and love for the people of Gippsland, as you exalt His Name on high!

Omeo: Unfortunately, we cannot receive you here but pray the Lord will minister to others.

Prayer and Praise

Praise God for His Continued Blessings
Our licence renewal is a HUGE blessing but it also brings added responsibilities please continue to pray for the Board and the Life FM team for wisdom, persistence and good health.

Pray for New Members
Please continue to pray for those who have not re-newed their memberships to be prompted to do so and we ask for the provision of more new members and or donors.

Pray for the Board
Please continue to pray for wisdom and guidance for the Board as we approach new challenges for funding Life FM. As our AGM approaches - please consider if you have talents you could share as part of our Board.

Prayer for Staff
As we move into our next five years please pray for the people God would have involved in this ministry to come forward.

Pray for New Initiatives and Programs
As we continue to expand the ministry of Life FM please pray for those we connect with to be open to new ideas.

Praise God for the Feedback
We love to hear your stories so please pass them on so we can share.

Prayer for Ears to Hear
Please continue to pray for those listening to Life FM to be touched by the Spirit of God though the music and the messages.

More Music

This month we’re introducing some more info about new music. Every month Randell imports more music into our mix and now he’ll be telling us a little about the new tracks as they are introduced. We’ll try to keep things mixed up for variety - and don’t forget station sponsor Christian Bookworld is the place to go for new music! Listen to The Rock Across Australia on Sat 10am & 8pm for the latest in contemporary Christian music.

Join Randell weeknights at 6pm for Behind the Music, a 30-minute daily program produced by Woodlands Media featuring compelling stories about the music and the Christian artists you hear on Life FM.

Book Readings From Oasis Audio

We have been very blessed to be able to broadcast audio books from oasisaudio.com. You may have already heard Fireproof, Cast of Characters and the current book Billy, and there’s heaps of great books to come in the future. 

We hope you’re enjoying these readings of excellent Christian literature - and just a reminder that you can purchase the audio or the books from station sponsor Christian Bookworld.

Sausage Sizzles

During December if you’re in Sale on a Saturday we urge you to support the Lions BBQ outside Donovans Butchers in the Raymond St Mall. The December sausage sizzle will be to raise funds for Life FM!

If you’re down Leongatha way drop past IGA on Saturday mornings for a sausage sizzled by Albert and Johanna and their team. This sausage sizzle raises funds for Make Poverty History and Life FM on alternate Saturdays.

Voices4Justice

Voices4Justice was a gathering of many social justice groups such as Making Poverty History, Samaritan's Purse, Red Cross and Mother’s Union to name a few at St Peter’s Anglican Church in Leongatha. The 3 day display was part of the Daffodil Festival and Life FM was invited to have a presence.

You can hear interviews relating to Voices4Justice on our interviews page.  

Staff Stuff

Life FM team leaders (Yvonne, Randell, Sarah and Deb) visited Light FM in Melbourne to get ideas to improve how we operate and to build friendships with the team there.

We learned lots and there was a lot of planning on the way home!

We also had a pancake stop for a treat...

Last month we held the second round of our Certificate 3 Media training with trainees from Life FM as well as 3BBR in Drouin and 3MFM in Inverloch. It was a very full day held at ACES in Sale with fantastic catering by station sponsor Tall Poppy Café.

This has been a great exercise in not only broadcast training but in building relationships with our fellow community
broadcasters in Gippsland.

Birthday Appeal

This year we're not only celebrating our birthday but also the renewal of our licence - thank you Gippsland for your support.

As we move into the next 5 years we need to update the website and replace some equipment as well as continue to pay the day to day bills.

Life FM’s ministry is to tell people about Jesus through music and programs - YOU are an integral part in this listener supported ministry!

We are aiming for $29,000 by 29th October. The final tally will be announced at the Birthday Party / AGM. 

You can make a donation ANYTIME to help keep Life FM running.

Please make sure you put your name as the reference so we can send you a receipt.

Bendigo Bank, Branch : 633-000 Acct : 116708298

Cameron Rash
Treasurer

Life FM Newsletter August 2009 - PDF version 

God Is Good...Always!

At the beginning of June Life FM was facing around a $55,000 projected deficit for the end of the financial year.

The Board set a target for the June appeal of $90,000 to enable us to clear the current deficit and make a start toward next year’s needs as well as maintain the small growth steps taken through the year.

At the end of the appeal on the 25th June $29,097.70 had been raised, which was obviously significantly short of our target.

HOWEVER, between the close of the appeal and the end of the month - in just those 5 days - we received another $29,752.90!

Which means God has provided for us to balance our books at the end of the financial year - what a blessing!

We are so grateful to those who contributed and those who have supported us in prayer. God has once again (through His people) provided to keep this vital ministry in Gippsland.  Thank you!

Staff Stuff

Most Monday’s you will find Ian Erskine happily cleaning our Sale office as he has done for the last two years. He has been SUCH a blessing to us as he runs around emptying bins and vacuuming. He’s even happier now he’s not dragging the vacuum up and down our 3 flights of steps. Ian has given our new back-pac-vac his approval - and we think he looks cool!!

Sam Nicita presents Sam’s Golden Greats each Saturday night at 7. Sam was one of our first voices on Life FM and he has also worked with 3MFM in Inverloch.

We are really blessed to have Sam back on Life FM and he brings a rich local addition to our line-up with guest speakers from South Gippsland and music that’s a little more country than our usual mix.

Deb recently caught up with Archdeacon John and Rev. Abraham in Traralgon to find out more about their plans to spread the Word through Sudan - with bicycles!  Bikes will mobilize the ministers in Sudan.  If you’d like to assist in the Bike Project, a bike will cost approximately AU$128.

For details of how to contribute to the cause - or to hear Deb's interview - visit our interviews page. 

(L-R:) Archdeacon John, Deb, and Reverend Abraham

Kids Book Reading - Veggie Good!

Ten young Veggie Tales fans (and their mums) gathered at Christian Bookworld on Fri 3rd July to hear Sarah read some Veggie stories.

The Bookshop team provided afternoon tea and heaps of prizes were won! We all had a great time!

We encourage you to shop at Christian Bookworld because if we don’t use it - we’ll lose it! Life FM is very blessed to be able to rent (at a VERY reasonable price) the office space in the back - so we are encouraging you to make Christian Bookworld a regular drop in spot.

Join Sarah Saturdays at 8am and again at 4pm for

            Sarah’s Mixed Veggie Adventures!

Feedback

Traralgon: Thank you for your continuing work with this wonderful radio station promoting God's Word.

Morwell: I just love them they are great and keep me well informed on what is going on around our area. The teaching by Chuck Swindoll is superb. The Dramas are first class, praise & worship songs and music is anointed. I just cannot get enough you are all doing a wonderful job. May God bless you with meeting all your needs and may the finances multiply and souls be impacted into Gods Kingdom. Love you all and God continue to bless you beyond your imaginations.

Glengarry: I have really appreciated being able to listen to Life FM this year, Typically I would listen to radio drama and Odyssey and often Focus on the Family. Keep up the good work.

Moe: Keep up the good work so many can to know the Lord through your broadcasting work and all those that volunteer for the extra work in the background.

Morwell: Hope this finds you all well. This is our donation for your appeal from our mission night at Open Doors, we thank you for your efforts and praise God for your faithfulness, God bless. 

Prayer and Praise

Praise God for His Continued Blessings
We have skimmed close to being in the red...but God has always provided what we need - never to excess!

Pray for New Members
Our membership is still low and circumstances have seen a decline in regular donations. Please pray for those who have not re-newed their memberships to be prompted to do so and we ask for the provision of more new members and or donors.

Prayer for Staff
This time of year especially everyone seems to get some kind of cold or flu. Please pray for the team to stay well during these colder months. Just one person out of the team for any length of time puts huge strain on the others.

Pray for the Board
Please continue to pray for wisdom and guidance for the Board as we approach new challenges for funding Life FM. As our AGM approaches - please consider if you have talents you could share as part of our Board.

Pray for New Initiatives and Programs
As we continue to expand the ministry of Life FM please pray for those we connect with to be open to new ideas.

Praise God for the Feedback
We love to hear your stories so please pass them on so we can share.

Prayer for Ears to Hear
Please continue to pray for those listening to Life FM to be touched by the Spirit of God though the music and the messages

Another New Program

Starting Mon 10th August, Life FM’s Randell Green will host BEHIND THE MUSIC - a 30-minute daily program produced by Woodlands Media featuring compelling stories about the music and the Christian artists you hear on Life FM. Since this series began production and airing in 2006, there have been more than 700 artist interview programs with:

* The Leaders
- Casting Crowns, Third Day, Jars Of Clay, Newsboys, MercyMe, and Switchfoot…

* The Legends
- Amy Grant, Michael W Smith, Rich Mullins, Steve Taylor, and dc Talk…

* The Hottest Acts
- Krystal Meyers, Thousand Foot Krutch, MaryMary, Bethany Dillon, and Superchick, Meredith Andrews, Natalie Grant, Remedy Drive, plus...

* Aussies and Kiwis
- Hillsong United, Rebecca St James, New Empire, Original Liberty, Revive, Paul Colman, Simeon, Rapture Ruckus, Darlene Zschech, and Juliagrace.

Join Randell weeknights at 6pm for Behind the Music

From The Treasurer

The 2008-09 financial year has been an extremely challenging one for many community organisations…and individuals! The financial crisis sweeping the world has impacted many people and businesses quite severely. In light of this our June Appeal target was always going to be very challenging.

Whilst we didn’t achieve the target for the Appeal, the amount we did achieve was sufficient to cover the deficit for the financial year. On one hand we shouldn’t be amazed that God has provided for our needs as He does it time and time again, yet on the other hand there really is something amazing in seeing God at work in the finances of Life FM! Praise God for His faithfulness to this ministry!

We are also grateful to the Community Broadcasting Foundation (CBF) for grant assistance. These grants are extremely important in enabling us to broadcast from Mt Tassie – one of the highest points in Gippsland and one which enables us to reach such a large geographical region.

Finally we are extremely thankful to all who donated to the June Appeal, and to those who regularly donate throughout the year. Life FM really is a listener-supported ministry and we could not continue to broadcast without the ongoing support of the Christian community of Gippsland. We’re expecting this next 12 months to be another tough time financially - I encourage you all to continue to get behind this ministry…we cannot do this without you!

God bless,

Cameron Rash
Treasurer

Life FM Newsletter June 2009   PDF version

We Press On to the Hope That Is In Us...

The 15th of May was the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the Life FM office in Ray St, Sale. In May 2001 we were set up in the

2 front rooms of our current abode in Raymond St. We have come a long way since then. Many steps forward, some delays, some side steps as we tried different things - but all the time moving forward. Many people have come and gone during the last 10 years and we are so grateful for the input they have had in getting us to where we are today.

We had great plans to be a self-sustaining ministry BUT God had other plans it seems - to keep us on our knees and to keep Him in the centre of the target of the prize set before us….to reach Gippsland with the words of hope, encouragement and LIFE that only comes from Jesus!

As we enter this time of year we ask you once again to think about why we need local Christian community radio in Gippsland. We know that things have been tougher than usual for many with years of drought, then floods and then fires. Add to that more unemployment and the economic crisis we constantly hear about in the news…..what better time to tell people about the HOPE we have in Jesus.

As the end of the financial year approaches the Board has set a goal to raise $90,000 by 25th June – this will enable us to clear the current deficit and make a start toward next year’s needs as well as  maintain the small growth steps taken through the year.  We want and need to continue to grow Life FM, however in light of current economic conditions we believe it is wise to maintain our current level for now.  Please read on to see how you can help us reach this goal.

Job Vacancies

Community Notices Producer

The community notices you hear every hour on Life FM don’t just happen. We have faithful volunteers who come in and write them up for the presenter to record.  Then they are edited and scheduled.

That’s where YOU could come on board!

We need someone 2- 4hrs per week to prepare our notices for air. You will need some experience editing audio on a computer and some experience with MS Excel.
This is a very flexible position and you can work from the Sale or Traralgon office, depending on where you live.

Program Producer

This position is for someone to prepare our programs for broadcast . The main tasks include:

•Downloading or ripping from CD - programs, promos and spots and editing for broadcast

•Maintaining database of programs and schedules

•Creating daily air logs using broadcast scheduling and automation software

•Ensuring daily logs are verified and ready for air

•Update website weekly with audio and text

This position is a minimum 25 hours per week working from Life FM Sale office.

You will receive training for either position and we are great bunch to work with…

If you’re interested in either position please email deb@lifefm.com.au by the end of June with your contact details and a short list of your experience.

Christian Bookworld Sale

For the next few weeks Station Partner Christian Bookworld is having some great weekly discounts. Stay tuned to Life FM for details - which will also be on the web.

From 1st to 6th June there will be 25% discount off marked price on all boxed sets of cards + TWO clips on your CBW Reader Rewards Card.

We encourage you to shop at Christian Bookworld because if we don’t use it - we’ll lose it! Life FM is very blessed to be able to rent (at a VERY reasonable price) the office space in the back - so we are encouraging you to take advantage of the sales over the next few weeks and make Christian Bookworld a regular drop in spot.

New Program

This Saturday we’ll be starting a new program with an old voice. Well actually not so old!!

Sam Nicita (from Leongatha) was one of the first voices we heard on Life FM back in our “loop days”. He’s now producing and presenting a program we’ve called Sam’s Golden Greats. The first show will be on Saturday 6th June at 7pm. It’s a bit different from some of the music you’ll hear on Life FM - with a slight country feel and a message from one of the many ministers in South Gippsland.

We’re really pleased to have Sam on board again and we hope you enjoy his show. Let us know won’t you!

Feedback

Traralgon - I became a member of LifeFM last year. Thank you for your recent emails when the bushfires were such a threat. Great communication work.  It was sad that LifeFM was down for so long after that.  I pray that everyone bounces back - to God - so that lots of positive things come out of this. All the best. 

Leongatha - I can only listen to Life FM in the car, and at the weekend tuned in a few times as I travelled around. Sarah has the clearest voice! She is a gem! Her bubbly personality shines through and she sure is an asset to the station. I also love Randell and Deb's ads - as well as the vast majority of your other programs. The station has been playing some very appropriate songs with words that reflect community feeling after the bush-fires and all the other confusing / suffering / insecurities / questions etc.

Warragul - loves the programs we do - Thinks Sarah is great - loves that her grand daughter listens to Sarah's program because she doesn't go to church as much anymore.  They felt "lost" without Life while we were off air during the fires and were really glad when we came back on.

Prayer and Praise

Praise God for His continued blessings

We have been blessed with a few more sponsors (an answer to prayer!) in the last few months and Five new members since the last newsletter including one Lifetime member.

Pray for New Members

Our membership is still low and circumstances have seen a decline in regular donations. Please pray for those who  have not re-newed their memberships to be prompted to do so and we ask for the provision of more new members and or donors. 

Prayer for the Administration Team

It’s always a blessing but lots of extra work getting all your wonderful donations processed during Appeal time. Please pray that we stay focused and for the continued health of the whole team.

Pray for the Board

Please continue to pray for wisdom and guidance for the Board as they bring Life Fm into the next licensing period. 

Pray for the Production Team

For good health and for the right people to fill our vacant positions. 

Praise God for the Feedback

We have received great stories of how God is using Life FM - some are listed here and some are anecdotal. We love to hear your stories so please pass them on so we can share. 

Prayer for Ears to Hear

Please continue to pray for those listening to Life FM to be touched by the Spirit of God though the music and the messages. 

Reach Out with Hope and LIFE!

Back in 2002 we were faced with the need to raise a similar amount to get Life Fm on air, now once again we need to look seriously at how we can raise the necessary funds for to continue the good work. $90,000 sounds like a lot of money and it is! You may wonder how your small contribution can help. To help you see how your donation can work towards our goal of $90,000 we've broken it down into some more realistic figures:

If 90 people give $1,000 once, = $90,000
If 180 people give $500 once, = $90,000
If 150 people give $50 a month for one year, = $90,000
If 87 people give $20 weekly for one year, = $90,480
If 174 people give $10 weekly for one year, = $90,480

You can make a direct deposit to Life FM. You can do this as a once-off through the web site or you can set things up so that your bank transfers a set amount once a week, fortnight or month. Many of us wouldn’t even miss $10 or more a week if it’s directly transferred from our bank account. Why not give it some thought. Just contact your bank and ask them to arrange a regular transfer to:

Life FM Gippsland

Bendigo Bank

BSB: 633 000

ACCOUNT: 116708298.

Please make sure you put your name as the reference so we can send you a receipt.

Click here to donate on-line. 

Life FM Newsletter April 2009   PDF version

Easter - A Time Of Renewal

There has been tremendous loss of life, homes, livelihood, and the feedback we have had since resuming broadcast is that Life FM is an oasis in the midst of all the continuous broadcasting of after fire trauma. We maintained our regular schedule and it's amazing how the programs have fit the situation. Things like overcoming adversity, forgiveness (some of the fires here were deliberately lit) etc - isn't it great how God works!!!

At this Easter time I have been reminded once again of those rich verses in Ecclesiastes….everything has a season.  This season has been traumatic, stressful, financially challenging but through it all we are now seeing the signs of renewal. The beautiful shades of green as the new growth bursts through the seemingly dead black earth.

Remember - God could have made everything beige - the colours are for us to enjoy! People are starting to re-build - again very stressful - but some are seeing it as an opportunity to change things…perhaps downsizing a little or changing the style and layout of their home. Some may move on - but that’s what seasons are all about aren’t they?

Through it all - the one constant, never changing reality is that Jesus Christ is with us. He was put into the tomb - dead. But as we see the new growth around us - imagine what it was like as He rose on that wonderful Sunday morning! We KNOW He lives!

Prayer and Praise

Praise God for His continued blessings
We came a step closer to linking the Traralgon studio with Sale last month. Praise God for Ralph who has been so faithful in his promise to help us. This link will enable broadcasting from Traralgon and hopefully more folk can be involved in broadcasts.

Pray for New Sponsors
Please continue to pray that Gippsland businesses will see the value of advertising on Life FM and take advantage of our Recession Buster Bonus!

Pray for New Members
Our membership is still low and circumstances have seen a decline in regular donations. Please pray for those who have not re-newed their memberships to be prompted to do so and we ask for the provision of more new members and or donors.

Prayer for Ears to Hear
Please continue to pray for those listening to Life FM to be touched by the Spirit of God though the music and the messages.

Another Celebration!

Congratulations to Life FM’s Sarah Possart (in the funny hat) on her graduation last month with a BA (Journalism). Sarah’s family were at Monash Uni for the ceremony and the following Monday...you guessed it! we had cake!!

Sarah came to Life FM for work experience in late 2007 and stayed on as a volunteer. She started working in production, preparing our programs for broadcast and 12 months later she started broadcasting community notices. We noticed over those months that a lot of Veggie Tales music and laughter seemed to be constantly coming from the production area….it seemed Sarah had found her niche. In December 08 Sarah presented a Very Veggie Christmas and this year she has been presenting Sarah’s Mixed Veggie Adventures - have a listen Sat 8am and 4pm on Life FM.

Life FM's Easter - Come and Join Us for Easter@Victory09! 

Victory Park in Traralgon will be buzzing again Easter Sunday 12th April from 3pm till 6pm as the real meaning of Easter is celebrated. The photos displayed here are from last year’s event.

This community celebration with a family focus - Easter@Victory 09 - sponsored by the Traralgon Ministers Association is set to become an annual event.

There will be FREE activities in the park and music and entertainment from the Sound Shell. Special guests this year include comedian Beau Stegmann and vocalist Paul Sykes. Christian FMX team "Crossing the Gap" will be displaying their bikes and there’ll be face painting and other activities for all the family. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase.

Children are being encouraged to pick up an Easter Passport before participating in the crafts stalls. Fully stamped passports will mean a free sizzled sausage when the crafts are complete.

Randell Green and Deb Bye will keep things running smoothly and they will be giving away CDs throughout the afternoon.

But wait there’s more!.....Life FM’s Mixed Veggie Adventure presenter, Sarah Possart will be judging the Mixed Veggie Competition around 4pm. Children are invited to bring along their best decorated Veggie Tales veggie and they’ll be in the running to win a Veggie Tales DVD. Be there early to register your veggie!

It's going to be a fun-filled day - don't miss it!

The Shack

A reading of William P. Young's best-selling novel starts Easter Monday in our Radio Drama time slot.

In a world where religion seems to grow increasingly irrelevant "The Shack" wrestles with the timeless question, "Where is God in a world so filled with unspeakable pain?". 

The answers God gives to a grieving father, after his youngest daughter is murdered, will astound you, and perhaps transform you as much as it did him.  You'll want everyone you know to read this book!

Sow Seeds of Hope

In the aftermath of the fires, many years of drought and financial stresses, now more than ever people need to hear about the hope that is only found in Jesus.

How will they hear?

Our catch phrase is “a better Life for Gippsland” - it is the focus of all that we do to bring the message of the hope of Jesus into the hearts of those who listen to Life FM - YOU are an integral part in this listener supported ministry!

You may not be able to spread the word yourself, but you can assist Life FM to do just that! Your prayers are VITAL for us to continue this ministry to Gippsland. Unfortunately, like so many things we also need to pay our bills to stay on air. There is no such thing as a small donation - every dollar is precious and appreciated.

You can make a donation ANYTIME to help keep Life FM running. Please make sure you put your name as the reference so we can send you a receipt.

Bendigo Bank, Branch : 633-000 Acct : 116708298

Life FM Newsletter February 2009   PDF version

It's Not Easy!

No one ever said being a Christian was easy….but you have to admit...it is interesting!!!

It’s also very challenging - as I write this I’m very mindful of the past few weeks of bushfires and terrible loss of homes, animals and livelihoods.  I’m no theologian but I do know that on Life FM we can hear MUCH encouragement through the music that’s played and the messages from sound Bible teaching.

You never know what someone else is going through until you’ve been there and in every situation the only one who can truly understand is Jesus.

Prayer and Praise

Answered Prayer
Praise God for some major steps forward in with our IT situation. We have had to replace 2 computers in the last month and this has been done with a minimum of fuss!

Praise God for His Continued Blessings
Everyday we see God’s hand in the work that we do - it is such a blessing to be part of this ministry!
Thanks for the wonderful letters of encouragement we have received. Praise God for the children who responded to the Veggie Tales competition….

Pray for New Members
Our membership has dropped off recently - the lowest it’s been since 2007. Please pray for those who have not re-newed their memberships to be prompted to do so and we ask for the provisions of more new members and or donors.

Pray for New Sponsors
We understand that the economy is in a bad way at the moment so please pray that Gippsland businesses will see the value of advertising on Life FM.

Celebration!

Yvonne had a BIG birthday - so we (Deb, Yvonne, Robyn and Sarah) had cake!!!

Sarah's Mixed Veggie Adventures! 

Over the past few weeks I've been sent some really wonderful drawings - I got Madame Blueberries from Bronte, Monique, and Hannah - Bob Tomatoes from Jamieson and Christy - Larry Boy and the Larry Mobile from Andrew and Jerry and Jimmy Gourd from Phoebe. And of course, you can see all those masterpieces on the kids' page.

But this final week has been extra special, my Veggie friends. This last week I've been sent so many absolutely astounding works of Veggie art that I just couldn't pick a winner! This was a bit of a problem, so I went to the Life FM big boss, and I said to her, I said, "Deb, I have too many great drawings this week, and I just can't pick which one is the best." So we had a big think together and in the end she said, "Let's give a prize...to everyone!"

Briar from Inverloch sent me Larry as Sheerluck Holmes, in a very spiffy hat and suit.

Becky Ann from Churchill drew Bob and Larry in a beautiful garden complete with rainbow - I love rainbows.

Joshua, also from Churchill sent in a spectacular portrait of our Larry Boy.

Abi from Newborough sent in her gorgeous Bob and Larry, as well as my favourite French Peas.

Sam from Briagolong sent in his very funky Larry the cucumber. 

And Rowan from Cann River won the final week's story for his wonderful portrait of Junior Asparagus!

Those drawings were all absolutely stellar guys - it was a great effort and I'm so very proud to have copies of these to put on my wall and cherish forever. All our entries received a Veggie Tales DVD donated by station sponsor Christian Bookworld in Traralgon, so CONGRATULATIONS!

Thanks also to the Mums who helped get the drawings in to me this week - your emails were very much appreciated also.

Adventures in Odyssey is so cool the team at Life FM have decided it needs to be on the weekends too!  But because I’m such a big Veggie Tales fan I reckon they should be part of the plan too...

So Life FM’s mission was to create Sarah’s Mixed Veggie Adventures! 

Starting the first Saturday in February join me at 8am and again at 5:30pm for an exciting blend of Veggie Tales and Adventures in Odyssey!!! 

We’ll have more prizes - so stay tuned for lots of fun!  Don’t forget to check the kids' page for more details. 

Tough Times

This is the time of year when donations and memberships really drop off - from November to around March is the “dry” time for many ministries. Everyone is thinking about Christmas and holidays and then before you know it - it’s Easter!

We are also very aware that many are “doing it tough” at the moment - now more than ever we need to reach out with the message of hope that only comes from Jesus!

Our catch phrase is “a better Life for Gippsland” - it is the focus of all that we do to bring the message of the hope of Jesus into the hearts of those who listen to Life FM - YOU are an integral part in this listener supported ministry!

You can make a donation ANYTIME to help keep Life FM running.

Please make sure you put your name as the reference so we can send you a receipt.

Bendigo Bank, Branch : 633-000 Acct : 116708298