Voice calls out to save our station

NOT-for-profit community radio station, Voice FM is calling for financial support to ensure its survival after seven months of COVID economic challenge.

Chair Ron Egeberg said the board of Voice FM is publicly announcing the group’s financial position, following half a year’s worth of automated broadcasting.

“We have given ourselves until 30 November to raise the necessary funds to trade out of our financial situation,” he said.

“Whilst we understand that in accordance with section 11 of the Community Radio Broadcasting Codes of Practice, Voice FM, like all community broadcasters, cannot operate to make a profit but there is a fine line between profit and loss.

“Our aim through all our planning has been to create a foundation where any surplus funds will be used for necessary capital expenditure and the introduction of digital broadcasting.”

Mr Egeberg said the organisation has “done everything possible to overcome these difficult circumstances with little success,” and so urgent financial support from the public is needed, and gratefully accepted.

Voice’s board developed a stable funding plan, including a sponsorship drive and revamped program structure, following their relocation to Barkly Square last year, but this hasn’t been achievable since the COVID climate.

“We have been unable to attract sponsorship, which is the lifeblood of community radio broadcasters such as Voice FM,” Mr Egeberg said.

“We have done everything we can to attract sponsorship during the pandemic, but so far, it has been to no avail.

“Should you be able to support us at this time, please email us at [email protected].”