Grahame Facey
- tcollins66
- Mar 21
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 26
A Harmonious Journey Through Broadcast Engineering
In the dynamic world of broadcast engineering, few stories resonate as profoundly as that of Grahame Facey. This exceptional individual has played a pivotal role in shaping Jamaica's media landscape since the late 20th century, skillfully navigating the transition from black and white to colour television while embracing the rapid technological advancements that have revolutionized the industry.
Early Inspirations and Educational Foundations
Grahame's love affair with electronics ignited in 1977 when he explored the pages of the Encyclopedia Britannica, sparking a passion that would guide his career. A pivotal moment came during childhood visits to Canada, where the vibrant world of colour television left a lasting impression on his young mind. As a student at Wolmer’s Boys School, his growing interest in electrical engineering and electronics laid the groundwork for his future endeavours. The defining twist in his career arrived in 1980 when Mr Meltonian Blake, then Assistant Engineer at the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC), invited students from Wolmer's Boys School to an open day at the JBC. It was a thrilling time in broadcast history, marked by the shift to colour television as video technology began to flourish.
Rising Through the Ranks
After landing a summer job at the Jamaica Information Service, Grahame officially started his journey at the JBC in August 1980. Under the guidance of mentor Harold Dixon, he assumed the role of trainee Assistant Engineer in the film unit, gaining invaluable hands-on experience in the thriving world of television and radio. From 1981 to 1983, Mr. Facey stood at the forefront of a transformative era in broadcast engineering. In 1981, the JBC employed microwave technology for the first time to transmit in colour, coinciding with significant events like the ceremony granting Montego Bay city status. This ground-breaking advancement not only enhanced programming quality but also allowed the JBC to significantly reduce costs. During this period, he was promoted to a Grade 3 engineer and played a crucial role in implementing the innovative Bicycle System—an ingenious approach to sharing the costs of obtaining programs for airing. The transition to NTSC, a colour television standard, further streamlined operations by eliminating the need for costly optical converters, demonstrating the JBC's commitment to modern broadcasting.
Embracing Technological Advancements
The introduction of satellite dishes marked a monumental shift in content delivery. This advancement enabled the JBC to connect with major networks such as ESPN and CNN, facilitating live broadcasts and reducing reliance on physical mail for programming. As broadcast hours expanded from four to eight, the landscape of Jamaican media evolved rapidly. In 1985, as the JBC underwent significant renovation to its facilities, Grahame Facey's expertise became invaluable. The completion of a new master control and studio, along with the acquisition of an advanced graphic system, represented a new era in broadcasting standards. By 1989, he ascended to the position of Senior Engineer, showcasing his exceptional skills as an electrical repairman and his capacity to tackle complex technical challenges.
Leaving a Legacy
After the sale of JBC to the RJR Group, Grahame Facey remained a crucial part of the engineering department, significantly contributing to the control room's reconstruction with Neville McKenzie in 1997. Together, they replaced the outdated Thompson switcher with a sophisticated analogue switcher acquired from ROSS, enhancing the reliability and flexibility of the production process. He was also present when technological changes, such as the move from analogue to digital receivers, occurred in 1997. In 2003, Grahame transitioned to freelance work, further cementing his status as a respected figure in the industry by collaborating with notable production houses such as Slingshot Production, CPTC, CVM TV, and Phase 3 Productions.
Life Beyond Broadcast
Outside of his professional commitments, Grahame Facey is a passionate music lover. He dedicates his free time to exploring various musical genres, allowing the rhythms and melodies to inspire him and provide a much-needed balance to his busy life. Additionally, he finds joy in daily walks, which serve as a ritual of reflection and connection with nature. Grahame Facey exemplifies not just technical proficiency but a harmonious blend of passions—broadcast engineering and music. His unwavering commitment to both fields has left an indelible mark on Jamaica’s media industry. In the grand tapestry of broadcast engineering, Grahame Facey's journey serves as an inspiration for future generations. His story reminds us that in the world of technology and media, like music, the possibilities are as vibrant as the colours on the screen.
