ABC Radio's shift from AM to FM in Perth signifies the end of an era for the beloved 94-year-old Hamersley transmitter, a landmark for the community. The transition has drawn attention to the transmitter's historical significance, having been a cornerstone of local broadcasting since 1932. The change is especially poignant for veterans like Trevor Kelly, who recalls climbing the transmitter as a trainee technician back in 1959 and reflects on the implications this transition holds for both listeners and the broadcasting landscape in Western Australia.

The move to FM is expected to improve sound quality and accessibility, aligning with modern broadcasting standards and listener preferences. For many in Perth, the AM transmitter had become synonymous with their daily routines, and its closure is emotionally charged for long-time fans of the station. The shift also represents broader trends within the media landscape, where digital and FM formats have increasingly taken precedence over traditional AM broadcasting.

As ABC Radio embraces this change, listeners and technologists alike ponder the future of radio in an increasingly digital world. The transition not only marks a technological upgrade but also a cultural shift, prompting questions about the preservation of radio history and the role of traditional broadcasting in a fast-evolving media environment. The legacy of the Hamersley transmitter will continue to resonate as a symbol of Perth's rich broadcasting history even as the airwaves change to meet contemporary demands.