Port Mac Goss: Nik Lipovac

A RADIO host with Cruze FM and a local councillor, Nik Lipovac’s passion for the Port Macquarie region is clear for all to see.

Nik is also an advocate for many community organisations across the Mid North Coast.

Port Macquarie Goss this week features a man who loves his job and his community.

From Sydney’s Inner West to Port Macquarie. How did that come about?

Working in the radio and/or the newspaper industry was something I always wanted to pursue from a young age. I’m passionate about communication, information and entertainment (and sport). So you follow your passion to wherever it leads you and here we are.

Your radio career. Share with us that journey?

From starting out in community radio in Bankstown, to being an office assistant at 2DayFM in Crows Nest, and then in various radio roles in Goulburn, Devonport in Tasmania, Lithgow, Coffs Harbour and finally settling in Port Macquarie almost 22 years ago.

Can you share some of your on-air highlights?

Let’s go back to 1990 when I did my first on-air shift at 2DayFM on a Friday night 10pm-1am. The “real” jock didn’t turn up, so with my heart pounding I turned on the mic and gave it a crack.

The tape from that show led to my first full-time announcer job. Interviewing Russell Crowe, the late Don Lane and dozens of major sports stars over the years is a highlight. Also working with Anthony Maroon in my early days.

You have seen many changes since arriving in Port Macquarie. What’s your thoughts on the progress and, with your crystal ball, how will the future shape up?

You don’t need a crystal ball to know this Mid North Coast town and surrounds is only a few years away from being declared a city. There is so much potential for this region to become a sporting capital, a technology hub, a tourism hot spot. The sky’s the limit. Big picture thinking and long-term planning is required.

What motivated you to run for Port Macquarie-Hastings Council?

We could all see how dysfunctional the Council had become in 2017 and many in the community were calling for change but not prepared to put their hand up. I’ve never been afraid to take a risk, to call out bulldust when I see it, to step up and lead when needed, and to speak up and stick my neck out.

After last week your beloved South Sydney Rabbitohs are running last. What’s your advice to get the boys back into the winning circle?

The boys need to rub as many rabbit’s feet as they can find and also pray that at least nine clubs ahead of them get caught overspending on their salary cap and have all their points deducted.
You know mathematically we can still make the eight! Always optimistic about our chances.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years?

I’ll have another run at becoming Mayor, would love the chance to return on-air full-time and also become a pickleball champion. You’ve got to set your goals high!

By Dave ‘Scoop’ LAZARUS