Australia: Balmain Rozelle Radio now online

Broadcaster Ian MacRae has started a community radio station  in Balmain. CARLY EARL

BALMAIN peninsula residents can now tune in to their very own community radio, by listening on their smart phones and tablets.

Balmain Rozelle Radio is the brainchild of veteran broadcaster Ian MacRae, who produces, edits and broadcasts the show from his Beattie St headquarters.

"I've had the idea for a long time and it's time to get it in place," he said. "The mobile phone has become today's radio and people are listening more to their phones."

The station hosts regular spots from Balmain MP Jamie Parker and Leichhardt Mayor Rochelle Porteous, as well as a weekly crime segment.

Content is pre-recorded and broadcast in a loop which users can access online. Mr MacRae said there is about 40 minutes of material so far, with the aim of producing two-hour shows for digital listeners.

"There's new stuff going up every day so people have a reason to come back and listen."

The station will cover local news and events, and Mr MacRae is encouraging locals to visit the website and leave suggestions for stories.

"(The Balmain peninsula) is full of interesting people doing interesting things."

"We really encourage communication with the local people, we want them to feel it's their station." 

(Source : Village Voice Balmain, Australia)