By Peter Douglas
Popular non-profit, grassroots radio station Yarra Valley FM is holding a Radiothon to help boost membership and shore up its future.
From 30 June to 8 July, the station’s first ever Radiothon will encourage local listeners to tune in so more people can provide input into the station.
Yarra Valley FM relies purely on sponsorship, donation and membership.
Community Engagement Organiser for Yarra Valley FM, Greg Carrick, said that without membership and support, the service wouldn’t exist.
“Community radio goes way beyond playing bland music or emulating commercial radio; we are to be hooked into the heart of our community,” Mr Carrick said.
“We have many roles to play in the community; we are licensed to give an on-air platform for local community groups, to promote local and Australian music, to give local emergency news and involved the local community in day-to-day running of the station.”
Mr Carrick said the radio station was a great connector for the community.
“We have 26 primary schools throughout the Yarra Valley taking part in our ‘School’s In’ program,” Mr Carrick said.
“We have many local community groups come in to chat about what they are doing in their community.”
To become a member, or to donate, visit www.yarravalleyfm.com.
