Joy 94.9 is an iconic radio station that pioneers the heart and soul of Melbourne’s Gay and Lesbian community. Joy has provided the community with uplifting music, thought provoking talk back programs and the opportunity for listeners to communicate with their peers for more than 14 years.

Despite few paid employees, Joy has grown to a stage where it broadcasts and webstreams 24 hours a day, seven days a week and engages scores of volunteers both behind the microphone and “behind the scenes”.

As such, Joy found itself with an organisational structure reflecting rapid growth and enthusiastic participation but one without the foundation of strategic planning.

Enter Suzy.

An accomplished organisational psychologist keen to expand her skills beyond the corporate sector, Suzy eagerly accepted Joy’s wish to review their internal organisational structure and reporting lines.

After regular studio visits, 22 staff interviews and a range of committee and other meetings, Suzy was able to deliver a comprehensive report to Joy. The report’s findings have enabled Joy to review their internal structure such that they are in a better position to reward their staff and embrace growth.

Joy’s Secretary Tom Hazell says “The work done by Suzy was extremely helpful. It was important for the organisation to have someone externally looking at it and proposing changes". He continues, "I felt I learnt a lot personally and it was good to hear an outsider’s view on the problems and these could be resolved".

Suzy says "I loved working with Joy FM. It was great to use my skills freely without the constraints of cost! I felt deeply enriched. My contract there will continue".

It is estimated that the value of Suzy’s work at Joy is between $20,000-$50,000.