Adrian Basso steps down from PBS 106.7FM after 15 years

After 15 years at the helm of Melbourne’s community radio station PBS 106.7FM, General Manager, Adrian Basso, has announced he will be stepping down mid-2022.

During Adrian’s tenure, the station has grown into a nationally and internationally respected music institution that has survived many challenges, including the Global Financial Crisis and the COVID pandemic – emerging bigger and stronger than ever before. 

In no mean feat, Adrian shepherded the station’s recent move, securing a long-term lease in the Collingwood Arts Precinct and new $2.5 million digital studios on Johnson Street.

“PBS has been my family for the past 15 years and I think it has never looked better, sounded better or had a brighter outlook than it does now. But it’s time for me to let someone else shape the next chapter.” Adrian said. 

“I leave the station financially strong, well-governed and well equipped for the future so I feel I can step away to see what’s next for me, confident the station is in a great position to take on whatever lies ahead.

‘’I look forward to enjoying my time as a committed PBS member and listener and I urge all music fans to keep showing their passion for the station because it’s only going to get better.”

He has been passionately involved in community radio for more than 20 years, having worked previously at fine music station 3MBS, and as President of the CBAA. During his six years as President, he lead the CBAA’s national campaign that successfully advocated the Federal Government for adequate funding for community radio to broadcast on DAB+ digital radio. 

“Adrian was a mentor to me when I first started at the CBAA nine years ago – sharing his deep understanding of community radio, its challenges and opportunities. To this day, I stil value his opinion and expertise.”

“Without his leadership, over 55+ community radio stations would not be broadcasting on DAB+ digital radio. He’s a valued leader – and has done a fantastic job over the past 15 years in growing and nurturing one of our sector’s biggest stations. He’ll be missed.”

Recruitment to fill the role of PBS General Manager will occur over the coming months.