Veteran community radio presenter Mona Swinton died on August 10 at the age of 102, from natural causes.
Swinton began her career in radio at the age of 57 in 1979 and worked continuously until her retirement in 2020 at the age of 98.
She was born in Ontario, Canada, in 1922 and after marrying her Australian boyfriend Alexander, she moved to Warrnambool in regional Victoria in the late 1970s.
The cheerful personality began his long career at community station 3WAY FM in 1984, when it was known as CREW FM.
3WAY FM is based in Warrnambool.
Swinton was a long-serving presenter of the weekday easy listening music programmes Stardust and Afternoon Delight.
Mona’s cheerful and energetic demeanor helped make her a local celebrity in her regional community.
Her undying passion for her role led her to become one of the country’s longest-serving presenters before her retirement in 2020.
3Way FM paid tribute to Swinton in a statement: ‘Mona leaves behind a long and rich legacy in the station’s history, along with many deep and meaningful friendships with all of our team.
Veteran community radio presenter Mona Swinton (pictured) died on August 10 at the age of 102, from natural causes.
Swinton began her career in community radio at the age of 57 in 1979 and worked continuously until her late retirement in 2020 at the age of 9.
‘Rest in peace, dear Mona, and thank you for being a valued collaborator and friend, both on and off air, to all the staff and our listeners.
“She certainly lived a full life, and we at 3WAY FM are indebted to her as one of our founding members, a long-time presenter and much more.”
A memorial service was held in his hometown on Monday at 10:30.
Mona was survived by her husband Alex and son Mark.
He is survived by his daughter-in-law Gwen and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
This cheerful personality began his long career at community station 3WAY FM in 1984, when it was known as CREW FM. For a long time he presented the light music programmes Stardust and Afternoon Delight with his characteristic enthusiasm and commitment.