There can be few prouder radio presenters than Hastings & Districts Grey Power member, Ron Wilkins whose regular segment on Radio Hawkes Bay has been named by the station as Best Community Programme.
Funded by the station since August 2020, Ron says his guests have included the local mayor, police personnel, politicians, local body candidates and representatives from Age Concern, Civil Defence, Fire and Emergency NZ, Work and Income and more.
“You name it and I’ve done an interview,” Ron says “I’ve chatted to some fascinating people and learned a lot. In particular, scam stories were unbelievably hard to hear and I was astounded by an interview with Nourish for Nil which revealed just how much food waste there is in Hastings.
“So many people and stories have been both fascinating and heartbreaking. Historian, Michael Fowler was extremely interesting as was the role of funeral directors.
Both the Cancer Society and also Civil Defence after Cyclone Gabrielle had stories which were very sad but, in some cases, uplifting, too.”
Ron’s Wednesday morning segments promote the wellbeing of older New Zealanders, discuss pertinent local issues with councillors and monitor government actions, including engaging with individual politicians. He has interviewed a variety of local personalities and featured various community resources.
Kelly Reid from Radio Hawkes Bay says the station is always delighted to have him in the studio.
“Ron’s stories for our senior community shine a light on the good work done within Grey Power and the local association. The calibre throughout our community programmes is always high, but awarding this community accolade to Ron was an easy decision.”
Ron says a lot of credit goes to the proactive nature of the Hastings Grey Power Association which has been involved in many local projects.
“For example, we have a discount book available to members especially those under 65 who don’t yet qualify for the SuperGold card,” Ron says. “I also send out a free newsletter three times a year covering local news and updates and after Cyclone Gabriele, the association encouraged all businesses in Hastings/Havelock North to join our ‘Age Friendly Business’ project. It now has 81 business participants which mark their premises as age-friendly.”
Recent episodes of Ron’s programme can be heard online via the Radio Hawke’s Bay website or download them from Apple Podcasts.
