The winners of the NSW/ACT Regional Achievement and Community Awards have been announced, with CHYFM of Coffs Harbour being named the winner of the Fantastic Furniture Youth Leadership Award.
 
This annual awards program is presented by PRIME7 and supported by the Commonwealth Bank and recognises groups, business, individuals and communities who play a vital role in enhancing the social, environmental and economic prosperity of regional and rural NSW and the ACT.   
 
The Fantastic Furniture Youth Leadership Award was developed to recognise the fantastic achievements of groups who work with young people and young people between 12-27 who are showing leadership and initiative within their communities.
 
CHYFM is a volunteer led community radio station delivering formal announcer and radio management training programs to young people, with a focus on disadvantaged and ‘at-risk’ young people within the Coffs Harbour Community. CHYFM is in its 40th year, with over 4,000 graduates, and is led by Australia’s youngest station manager, herself a graduate of the volunteer training program.
 
Operating under a Program Committee of young people, CHYFM initiatives include the Speaking Hour Lingo program for young Kooris, a TAFE Outreach program, and a Youth Current Affairs program. CHYFM provides a pivotal role in the community, as the only ‘foot in the door’ for students of all ages to gain valuable experience in the media industry before embarking on their careers.
 
 
The Awards are proudly supported by the Land Newspaper, NSW Local Government and Angove Family Wine Makers.