About Radio Bell Island

Radio Bell Island first began as an experiment in community radio at St. Michael’s High School. It went on for seven days with the help of community radio experts from around the province. At that time, it featured many one of type of programs and a host of different varieties of music. There were talk shows, call in shows, quiz shows, music to suit every taste and a few speciality shows such as how did you meet your future wife.

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The week long event inspired a group to start a community radio station and so the process began. There was an absolute monster of an application to fill out, land co-ordinates to map out and reams of correspondence. However, all the work was worth the effort and after eleven months CJBI 93.9FM was born and went on air in 2013.

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Then came even more work. Under CRTC regulations a board was formed. At the time with little effort a full board was elected, a constitution was penned and we were off to the races. Kelly Russell was the first Chairperson, followed by Stan McDonald, then John Moore and our present Chairperson Colin Hann. Board members over the years have come and gone, but the Board has always remained stable. The longest serving member on the Board since its inception has been the Treasurer Henry Crane and who is still the Treasurer today.

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Programming has changed over the years and one can argue it has gotten better as more and more of the downhome type music and talk continues to evolve and flourish. Radio Bell Island runs a very profitable and well run bingo that sees major dollars donated every year to the community’s non-profit and charitable organizations. While Radio Bell Bingo does not get a dime from the bingo itself, the station is proud to be such a dynamic fundraiser for the community. On top of that, part of our programming is broadcasting the Anglican church service on a weekly basis, covering the Town Council meetings, interviewing local artists and celebrities. We also broadcast local programs sent to us from all over the province, featuring the best in Newfoundland music and stories.

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During the COVID crisis Radio Bell Island used its team of dedicated volunteers to help people battle their feelings of loneliness and depression. Our volunteer team has always been there to keep things moving.

We have DJ”s who are volunteer and do magnificent work on a weekly basis. When Christmas rolls in, we partner with Tourism Bell Island for its annual Dial A Carol.

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Since its inception, we have become iconic in the community and we hope to continue that same journey well into the future. Thank you all for your support.

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