Station prepares for Ag Show live broadcast

Radio Margaret River (RMR) will again be at the Margaret River Agricultural Show this Saturday October 19, and this year they’ve got lots to talk about.

Big things are happening at the station, with more good news this week.

Earlier this year, RMR secured the licence needed to become the first FM radio station broadcasting from Margaret River. However, as a small, not-for-profit community radio station, funding was needed to purchase the specialised equipment.

This week that funding has been secured, with Lotterywest supporting for the project.

“This is a game changer,” station manager Richard Lee-Pullen said.

“Now that we have the funding, RMR 101.9 will no longer be a pipedream, but a reality.

“There’s a lot of things we need to do before we’re able to start transmitting at 101.9fm, but thanks to the generosity of Lotterywest, we can start ordering the equipment required to build a new, state-of-the-art studio.”

With the region boasting a constant and packed calendar of events, festivals, celebrations and live music, RMR 101.9 promises to support these by having locals on-air providing information and entertainment.

“Radio is such a fabulous way for people to hear local voices, learn about local events, discuss local issues and share local information. People tune-in to the radio to hear music and to be entertained, but equally, people listen to radio for comfort and connection,” Richard said.

“This is so important, especially in this region. It is not a huge area between Margs, Busso and Dunsy, but there are so many terrific venues, events, and attractions, that it’s hard to keep up with what’s happening each week.”

“RMR wants to connect the community by having local presenters sharing information about events, issues and celebrations occurring in the region.”

Richard said RMR’s ability to broadcast from mobile locations – including the Margaret River Ag Show this weekend and the Cowaramup Christmas Fair in November – meant there was possibility to do the same from Busselton or Dunsborough-based events.

He also pointed out that more funding was needed, with the Lotterywest grant destined for essential, specialised equipment only.

“For the first time businesses in the Cape-to-Cape region will be able to reach the seventy thousand locals, and 1.6 million annual visitors, in real-time, via the most convenient method.

“If, for example, a winery, brewery, community group, or art gallery, is having a special event, this event can be promoted on-air, encouraging both locals and visitors to attend.”

RMR is looking for a handful of businesses to get involved by becoming “Platinum” sponsors.

These businesses will receive naming rights to on-air shows and receive a raft of promotional activity on-air and on-line throughout the year.

With the move to FM taking approximately three months, RMR is currently offering fifteen months sponsorship for the price of twelve.

“This is such a great point in time to get involved. Big things are happening at the station, and in the region. I’m so looking forward to the day when I hop in my car and can simply tune-in to 101.9, or better still, hear RMR playing in a local café or workshop.

“Come on down to the Ag Show this Saturday and find RMR in the Exhibition Hall. We’d love to have a chat. About the cakes and art works on display, and how you can get involved with the station.”