Radio pushes buttons

By Melissa Meehan
But Raymond Bergin’s dream of having his own show has come true, all thanks to the perseverance of Dandenong-based support carer Terry Morton with the help of community radio station Yarra Valley FM 99.1.
“The fact that Ray has autism has presented him challenges in his life,” says Mr Morton. “But it’s exciting that the radio station has allowed him this opportunity to work on his own show.”
Mr Morton first approached the radio station as part of his duties as Mr Bergin’s support worker.
“Ray has always loved hanging around the radio station, so I went to them and said I’d like to help him get involved,” he said.
“Then it was put to me that we do a show together and the rest is history.”
Ray Bergin is now the newest voice on community radio for the Yarra Ranges, Cardinia and Murrindindi shires on Thursday afternoons on Yarra Valley FM.
The Raymond and Terry Show is different from any other show in the area.
“No other show deals with issues of disability like we do,” says Terry Morton. “We discuss issues, and highlight its existence in our service area.”
At first Mr Bergin recorded voice-overs and spoke to listeners who called into the station.
“But then it clicked,” Mr Morton said. “Autism is all about pressing buttons, like video games, and we got him behind the desk instead.
“He reads the weather without any help from me now as well.”
Mr Bergin also chooses the music and programs the show.
Asked about working at Yarra Valley FM, he responds excitedly.
“I just love it,” he said.
As far as Mr Morton is concerned, the possibilities for his co-host are endless.
“We have been getting great feedback, and Ray has really taken to sitting behind the desk,” he said. “I’m hoping, sometime in the future, to help him into moving into recording studios.”
The next hurdle is to show employers that people with autism are able to work in the general workforce.
“We just have to open the eyes of employers, people with disabilities are wonderful to have, and often have specialised talents,” Mr Morton says. “They are also very loyal, and enjoy routine.”