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In an era where digital media and social platforms dominate, it’s reassuring to know that the enduring power of radio remains a vital tool for community connection. Across the sprawling prairies of Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta, Golden West Broadcasting exemplifies how local radio stations can serve as more than entertainment—they are lifelines of information, identity, and unity. Under the leadership of President Brett Adnum, this regional broadcaster continues to thrive by sticking to its core mission:
serving local communities and amplifying their stories.

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The story of Golden West begins in 1957 in the small town of Altona, Manitoba. It was founded by Elmer Hildebrand, a visionary with a simple yet ambitious goal: to create radio stations that truly serve their local communities. Unlike national broadcasters focused on broad audiences, Hildebrand believed that local radio could be a powerful force for good—highlighting community events, supporting local businesses, and giving voice to everyday people.

Starting with a single station in Altona, the company gradually expanded, driven by the belief that radio needed to reflect its community’s heartbeat. Over time, this vision has materialized into a network of over 38 radio stations and 350 staff across Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta. Today, Golden West stands as a testament to that early vision, a collection of stations interconnected by a shared commitment to local service and storytelling.

At the core of Golden West’s success is its unwavering commitment to community service. Its stations operate under a simple principle: “local people reporting on local stories.” This approach ensures that each station effectively becomes the voice of its community, covering local events, school functions, sporting contests, and community concerns.

Whether it’s broadcasting about a town’s annual parade or providing vital updates during a wildfire, Golden West stations are viewed as trusted, indispensable parts of daily life.

Across the vast prairies, this community-first approach has cultivated an audience that relies on the radio not just........

© Winnipeg Sun