Former Concrete Gang presenters & members of the BLF.
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An audio history special from the Concrete Gang archives - commemorating the 50th Anniversary of this program and 3CR Community Radio.
The Concrete Gang is a weekly program by and for those in the construction industry - first broadcast in 1976 by the rank and file of the BLF (Builders Labourers Federation), and now presented by the rank and file of the CFMEU.
This incomplete but historic project features news, discussions, and music by former presenters ('Mario', 'Joe', 'Willy', 'Bruce', and 'Harold' - to name a few!) who brought the Concrete Gang - and 3CR - to life all those years ago.
An excerpt from "RADIO FOR THE PEOPLE" in the Builders' Labourers' Songbook (1975):
'In Melbourne, a large number of community groups have formed a Federation to apply for a radio licence. They aim to have a community co-operative radio station, a community station, fully owned, financed and programmed by members and supporters of the station. The Federation has studios in the suburbs and training courses, so that many more people will feel confident to make their own programs, and will have ready access to a studio.
Women's Groups, Conservation groups, Trade Unions, Education Groups, Consumer Interests, Ethnic groups and Cultural Societies are among those determined to see this community station succeed.
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"Ear-Basher Blues" became the theme song of the Community Radio Federation in its struggle to get the voice of the people on the air. In October 1975, as a result of the mass campaign, the Government was forced to grant C.R.F. a licence.
Our Union is an affiliated member of Community Radio Federation.'
The iconic opener of this book - The Builders Labourers Song remains the title tune of the show, albeit in different 'DIY' recorded versions over our 50-year history.
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Thanks to all those who presented and featured on the program, those who helped get it to air, those loyal listeners who recorded cassettes of the show, and to Ralph Edwards AKA 'Warren' for leading and producing this project.
May the Concrete Gang History be treasured for years to come for our construction workers, trade unionists, presenters, supporters of community media, and indeed - all those of us who Dare to Struggle & Dare to Win!
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More historic CRAM Guide articles featuring the Concrete Gang coming soon:
3CR’s annual Radiothon fundraiser is on in June and this year we’re celebrating 50 years! We’re aiming to raise $300,000 to keep the station strong and with YOUR help, we know we can. No donation is too small or big, and all donations over $2 are tax deductible. In 2026, 3CR is ‘Celebrating 50 Years’ and we look forward to YOUR donation during June. Artwork by Charlotte Allingham (@coffinbirth).
Each year the station holds elections in March, and we’re pleased to introduce this year’s Committee, including new Chairperson, Dr Nat Grant - ‘I’m thrilled and humbled to be able to step into a role of support like this. 3CR has led the way in community-conscious broadcasting for 50 years, and its strength has always come from the people: volunteers, workers, programmers, activists, and communities who believe in independent media as a force for change. To be entrusted with the role of Chair is a great honour and responsibility: helping to ensure that 3CR remains strong, sustainable, and deeply connected to the values that have defined it for decades.’ Full member details online.
Join us THIS week for our 50th year of coverage on achievements of the labour movement, in solidarity with the continued struggle for labour rights and fair working conditions for communities around the world. May Day is International Workers’ Day. We support the fight of workers and unions for better wages and conditions, and their democratic rights to organise and unionise, wherever they are. Tune in on Friday 1 May and Sunday 3 May 2026 to hear May Day coverage - full details here.
