After a 33-year radio career, the Mid North Coast’s Mark ‘Strawny’ Strachan OAM from 100.7 and 106.7 Triple M announced he will retire from Breakfast radio on Friday, December 23.
Strawny has been waking up the Mid-North Coast of NSW for more than three decades and is a much-loved celebrity of the local community.
He was awarded an Order of Australia media for services to broadcast media and the community of Port Macquarie.
Strawny found his love for radio when he stepped into the 2MC radio studios as a producer in 1989. He made his way into the studio for workday and weekend afternoon shifts before waking up the region later.
He has been there through natural disasters and was the emergency broadcaster during the 2001, 2009 and 2013 floods, as well as the floods this year. He has also worked tirelessly for fundraisers and charity nights, raising more than $100,000 last year for the Give Me 5 For Kids charity.
Strawny is famous for his legendary April Fool’s Day pranks, with sewage blockages, fake $20 notes, and a man-eating shark just a few on a long list.
He said it was hard to choose a favourite moment from his time on air, from ‘Up Your Street’ OBs, school Christmas shows and Tradie Thursdays, but giving away a tinny stands out.
“One of my faves was when we gave away a tinny. We did the final draw at the famous boatshed wharf with June the Tea Lady smashing a stubbie VB over the bow while the Town Band played the theme from Titanic live on air,” he said.
When he hands in the mic, Strawny will do some volunteering and grey nomad travelling in his retirement.
“I have used a great saying on-air over the years after we’ve done a great promo or given a ripper prize away, ’Before I retire, I hope I never have to get a real job,’” Strawny said.
“It has been such a privilege to be invited into the lives of the people here on the Mid-North Coast for 33 years.”
SCA Mid North Coast General Manager, Mike Crowhurst, said, “Strawny has been such a huge part of the Mid North Coast for over three decades and it’s hard to imagine not waking up to him on Triple M.
“Mark has been there for the people of the Mid-North Coast through regional emergencies to celebrating some of the many great achievements of the region.
“From starting on the AM dial to now being streamed across the region, Strawny will be greatly missed when he hangs up the headphones, however, he is due for a sleep-in!
“The dedication he has shown to the region and the countless community initiatives he has supported and participated in over the years is a true credit to the person he is.”