This week, we farewelled one of Rise 96.5's (originally known on-air as Family Radio) founding fathers in Merv Dunkin.

Merv was instrumental in getting Family Radio off the ground in 1974, and it was his resoluteness and tenacity through a number of broadcast licence rejections, that finally led to the organisation finally being awarded a temporary full-time licence in 1997, and then a full-time broadcast licence in 2001.

Merv was a man of steadfast faith whose life and obedience to God helped shape the early foundations of Christian radio in Brisbane, leaving a legacy that continues to echo through the ministry of Rise today.

Merv Dunkin went to be with the Lord on 11 April 2026, aged 86.  He is survived by his wife Jan, his three children - Russell, Wendy and Susan, seven grandchildren and eighteen great-grandchildren.

This week, we farewelled one of Rise 96.5's (originally known on-air as Family Radio) founding fathers in Merv Dunkin.
Merv was instrumental in getting Family Radio off the ground in 1974, and it was his resoluteness and tenacity through a number of broadcast licence rejections, that finally led to the organisation finally being awarded a temporary full-time licence in 1997, and then a full-time broadcast licence in 2001.
Merv was a man of steadfast faith whose life and obedience to God helped shape the early foundations of Christian radio in Brisbane, leaving a legacy that continues to echo through the ministry of Rise today.
Merv Dunkin went to be with the Lord on 11 April 2026, aged 86.&nbsp; He is survived by his wife Jan, his three children - Russell, Wendy and Susan, seven grandchildren and eighteen great-grandchildren.

The launch audio for Rise 96.5 as heard Thursday January 29th 2026.

The launch audio for Rise 96.5 as heard Thursday January 29th 2026.