Michael Andersen, or Ando as he’s better known, has been a radio host for 2VM in Moree for 32 years, an impressive achievement especially given he was only meant to be in Moree for two weeks.

“I came here for two weeks in 1986. It’s the longest fortnight of anybody’s life,” Ando laughed.

“There was a vacancy for two weeks while somebody was on leave and they’ve left and I’m still here.”

Not only has Ando been broadcasting radio in Moree for more than half the time 2VM has existed, he is also heavily involved in the community. 

“You can’t come to a community and not get involved in it in some way,” he said.

“In my case, in the early days, I got involved with the local theatre group. I was involved with quite a few productions with them over a few years.”

“I got involved with sport, mainly cricket and later on with rugby league, off field. I’ve helped with various groups, not necessarily in Moree but in the smaller villages, Mungindi, Boomi, Garah, Pallamallawa, in different events.”

“They needed someone to do what they needed doing. They approached me and I more often than not said yes. Just do what you do.”

“It’s just being involved in the community. I mean, if you’re not involved in the community, you don’t feel a part of it.”

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One of the perks of working in radio is the chance to meet and talk to a wide range of people.

Ando has certainly done that, interviewing some big names including the likes of Reg Gasnier, Tony Mundine, Noel Cleal and Johnny Raper. 

“I’ve worked with a lot of people, done some interesting interviews,” he said.

“One of the nicest chaps I’ve ever interviewed was the late country singer Jimmy Little. It was an absolute gem, he was a gentleman of the highest quality.” 

“If they make themselves available to have their story told, I’m happy to provide the avenue for them.”

“People have their different fields, and if it’s something of interest and we’d like to get it out there and they’d like to get it out there, we do it.”

The nomination for the award came from Bill Poulos, who said Ando is one of the unsung heroes of Moree.

“When he’s not hosting the breakfast show on 2VM or broadcasting one of the best Saturday morning sports programs anywhere in Australia, he’s often seen on the mic at official functions like Australia Day ceremonies and Christmas Carols at Ron Harborne Oval each year – and every time he’s officiating it straight from the heart, his gift to the Moree comunity.” 

Whilst he never searches for recognition, Ando says he is very appreciative of the award.

“It was a surprise, I had no idea,” he said.

“I know Bill Poulos nominated me for the award and I thank Bill very much for that and for those who voted.”

“I appreciate it. It’s nice to have recognition for the things you do but I don’t go looking for it. I do the job and the job’s done.” 

His main job may be working in radio, but for Ando, he’s always had a community focus.

“The big thing is just getting involved in the community, not being on the radio. It’s a job anybody can do,” he said.

“There’s far more important jobs than this, far more glamorous jobs, far less glamorous jobs but everybody has a job to do and all jobs are important.”

“I just happen to be the one that’s doing this.”