Meet the Voices Behind Voice FM

Our presenters are the heart and soul of 99.9 Voice FM — a passionate team of volunteers bringing you diverse music, local stories, and engaging conversations. From seasoned radio pros to fresh new talent, each presenter brings their own unique style, knowledge, and love for community radio.

Get to know the voices that keep Ballarat entertained and informed — and discover the people who make Voice FM truly special

Local News on the Air

Love staying up to date with what’s happening in Ballarat and the surrounding areas? Want to be part of a fun and dynamic team that keeps the community informed? Then come and join Local News on the Air (LNOTA)!

LNOTA is a dedicated team of volunteers who bring local news to life by reading stories from Ballarat’s newspapers on air. Whether it’s breaking news, community updates, events, or human interest stories, we make sure our listeners stay connected to what’s happening in their backyard. This service supports the visually impaired.

Pete – Host of the Hump Day Big Breaky (Wednesday Voice Breakfast)

Pete Dillon is a seasoned radio presenter and a true chatterbox with a knack for turning every conversation into a great time. Known for his irreverent sense of humor and ‘ratbag’ charm, he knows how to keep listeners entertained and informed.

With years of experience both behind the mic and in the producer’s chair, Pete has been a familiar voice on ABC, JOY 94.9, Southern FM, and Noosa FM. An accomplished journalist, communicator, and marketer, he brings depth to every discussion, whether it’s breaking news or a lighthearted yarn. His quirky, fun-loving style keeps listeners coming back for more.

Sean – Host of Voice Drive

Originally from Melbourne, Sean has called Ballarat home for the past three years. Passionate about radio, he brings energy and enthusiasm to the airwaves as a volunteer announcer on Voice Drive, keeping listeners company on their drive home every Tuesday and Wednesday.

With a deep love for music and a broad taste spanning the ’80s, ’90s, new wave, indie, pop, rock, house, dance, country, folk, and local artists, Sean curates an eclectic mix for his audience. In addition to great music, he enjoys sharing news, weather updates, sports highlights, pop culture insights, and documentary discussions.

Mick – Host of Big World Radio

Mick is the host of Big World Radio on Voice FM, airing every Monday night from 8 PM to 10 PM.

The show features music from all around the world, highlighting sounds from every country except Australia. From the vibrant beats of Algeria to the rich rhythms of Zanzibar, Big World Radio showcases contemporary artists, influential musicians from the 20th century, and performers dedicated to preserving their cultural traditions.

The program also explores musicians who are innovating within their genres, as well as those staying deeply connected to the roots of their country’s music.

Merle - Host of Arts Insight

Arts Insight with Merle brings engaging and insightful conversations with artists from Ballarat and the surrounding areas. Merle dives into the creative process, exploring the stories, inspirations, and experiences that shape each artist’s work. From emerging talents to seasoned professionals, every episode offers a unique glimpse into the vibrant local arts scene.

Tune in to discover the passion, creativity, and voices behind the art! Wednesday at 9am

Alan and Mark - The Black Sheep

For over 30 years the Black Sheep has been providing an eclectic mix of music and social commentary. They cover everything musically from Classic Rock to Post Punk with a dash of humour and grumpiness. Segments include Odd News, Reviews, “Where in the World” music competition and an unusual Star Guide. Join Alan Penhall and Mark Gilroy Thursday nights, Voice FM from 8 – 10pm.
 
Reviews about the show.
“It keeps them off the streets of a night…”
“A cross between alternative music & 2 drunk dads at the pub” – Alan’s daughter  
“A little bit nasty” – Donald Trump

Rael

Rael has been presenting the Progressive Rock Machine on Voicefm for over 15 years continuously (apart from a short interruption during COVID) and his commitment to progressive (and in fact most styles) of music is unquestioned. The current series of shows is in fact the 2nd series. The first was over 200 x 2 hour shows, and this current series is over 540 shows and going strong. Contents include whole albums and histories of artists as well as music by diverse new artists – local and overseas. Two hours of great, well researched music and stories, over a two hour show, every Wednesday night at 9.30pm on Ballarat’s best community radio station 99.9 Voicefm. To follow Rael got to   facebook.com/progressiverockmachine.voicefm/  and progrockmachine.com

Fliss – Host of The Chat Show

Airing every Tuesday from 9 AM to 11 AM, The Chat Show with Fliss shines a spotlight on the incredible people who make Ballarat such a vibrant and inspiring community. Through engaging and heartfelt interviews, Fliss connects with locals from all walks of life — community leaders, creatives, volunteers, and everyday heroes — sharing their stories, passions, and experiences.

It’s a celebration of the amazing people and inspiring work happening right here in Ballarat.

Playa D – Voice's Resident DJ

Bringing the beats live on air and around Ballarat, Playa D is Voice FM’s resident DJ with a passion for music that knows no bounds. From smooth jazz to pumping house and everything in between, his sets are always fresh, unpredictable, and full of energy.

Catch Playa D spinning the decks live every Wednesday from 8pm-9.30pm PM and Saturday from 12pm to 2pm. With his eclectic taste and masterful mixes, you never know what’s coming next — but you know it’s going to be good.

Tune in and turn it up — you won’t want to miss a beat!

The Rat Run – Hosted by Dan and Simon

Buckle up and join Dan and Simon for The Rat Run, where every week they take you on a ride through the musical backstreets of their lives. Airing Thursdays from 2 PM to 4 PM, this show is a wild mix of music, laughs, and local culture.

Expect interviews with local and touring musicians, live in-studio performances (sometimes with handlers required!), and movie reviews with a little something for everyone. You’ll also get the latest gig guide for Ballarat and surrounding areas, show reviews, and their infamous “Jerk of the Week” segment.

It’s fun, unpredictable, and always entertaining — so tune in, kick back, and enjoy the ride with The Rat Run!

Lou Kelly’s Country Radio Show — A Journey Through Sound

Tune in every Tuesday from 4–6 PM for Lou Kelly’s Country Radio Show on 99.9 Voice FM — a rich presentation of country blues, country swing, jazz, country soul, folk, gospel, rhythm & blues, and a touch of ’50s and ’60s rock and pop. Lou brings a deep love of music and a playlist full of timeless sounds and hidden gems.

And if you want more from DJ Louis J, don’t miss his pre-recorded blues and reggae show every Sunday from 12–2 PM — the perfect laid-back vibe to round out your weekend.

🎶 Two shows, endless good vibes. Don’t miss it!
📻 99.9 Voice FM — Your community, your sound.

Friday Drive on Cruise Control with Steve

End your week on a high note with Friday Drive on Cruise Control, every Friday from 4–6 PM on 99.9 Voice FM! Hosted by Steve, this high-energy show is the perfect wind-down after a busy week, packed with great tunes from across the decades, feel-good anthems, and classic hits.

Stay up to date with the latest news, weather updates at 4 PM and 5 PM, and hourly traffic reports to keep your drive smooth. Plus, Steve keeps things lively with local event highlights, fun banter, and your song requests — just text in at 0437 996 248!

Cruise into the weekend with the perfect soundtrack — only on 99.9 Voice FM!