Doug Beecroft, volunteer
I started my training as a presenter in 2007—the same time as Susan Porter, Loretto Perkins and Dr John Van Bavel—and the four of us have remained at the station since then. I trained in the studio under long-time broadcaster Hector Walker. He encouraged me to be more concise, and reminded me it’s not about me, but about the music I was playing.
One of the highlights of my time at 3MBS has been as a researcher and presenter for the Reflections program. The focus of the program is interviewing people from diverse backgrounds, some well-known and some not, and asking them to reflect on their lives and illustrate and punctuate their story with some musical choices.
American baritone, Thomas Hampson, was a great interview guest. The ABC didn’t manage to have an interview with him, but when he came in to speak to me, he was very passionate and spoke from the head and heart. He also did a promotion soundbite for us and burst out laughing at the name '3MBS'. 'BS' he said. 'You must be joking'.
During the lockdown the Reflections interview team was asked to record a Reflections program on ourselves. Each of us did it differently, but I spoke quite openly about the difficulties growing up gay in the 1970s and the role of music in my life. Someone listening to this program at the station was heard to say ‘Oh no! Doug’s not going to come out, is he?'. Of course I did, and quite proudly.
One thing I would like to change at 3MBS is for more volunteers to show a passion for professional development. They don't need to improve greatly, but it would be good for people to come along to opportunities and reflect on new ideas. What I am doing at 3MBS is consistent with my values in my life. I like being busy and I like being engaged with people’s wellbeing.