Regional town launches community radio to connect listeners during COVID-19
The New South Wales coastal region of Kiama will now be serviced by a new weekly radio program, delivered online, with a view to connect the community during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Kiama Community Radio (KCR) will cover the area from Miaamurra to Gerroa and Jamberoo and has initially begun as a weekly hour-long show with more content available via podcasts, webcasts and the potential for other channels in the future.
The founding team of KCR
Using the platform of Kiama’s vibrant arts scene, the station will give local artists a new way to connect with their audiences and businesses as well as provide local community groups and services a portal to talk about their activities during the pandemic.
KCR founding committee member Graeme Gherashe said the station will try and help Kiama, and the surrounding community, feel connected again.
“The idea for KCR came about when we were all suddenly told to stay home, and all the ways we usually connect to each other were taken away from us, particularly for the older generations within our community. There’s a lot of global information available right now, but nothing that is specific to our own backyard,” said Gherashe.
“We are hoping that this new service will reignite our community spirit by sharing positive news stories and local information. Our local artists in particular are wasted sitting at home by themselves; we want them to continue their craft and keep us all entertained with their music, stories and projects.”
KCR’s launch format will include interviews with local artists, musicians, writers and performers; information on which local businesses are currently operating; local news; Kiama history and fun content for kids and families. The station’s inaugural host will be local comedian and actress, Diana McLaren.
KCR is a community-based organisation run by volunteers. It is currently recruiting for both like-minded people who want to be involved with the running of the station and businesses who would like to sponsor or make a donation.
What a great idea. A fantastic way to share our inspiration during this Covid 19 time.
I live in JAMBEROO and find painting inspiration by simple looking out of my windows or walking down the lane. I would love to hear about how other artists are inspired.
Best of luck with the launch of such a community initiative. Lorell McIntyre
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