Live-to-air Talkback Radio Hits The Airwaves in Yackandandah

• A collaboration between the Yackandandah Community Centre, local radio station, Indigo FM and ReConnect Communications will broadcast “Yack Chat” on 88.0FM each week day from 10am till 11am.

For the first time Yackandandah people will be able to phone the station and speak with the presenter live-to-air. The number to call in on is 0419 881 566.

Indigo FM President Scott Landells welcomed the new programming initiative and congratulated YCC for coming up with the idea and the resources – both people and equipment (supplied by ReConnect Communications) to bring their idea to a reality.

“We are only too aware of how sudden and drastic the changes to day to day life have occurred and this is having significant impacts for many people within our communities,” Mr Landells said.

“And of course, equity in regards to access to technology is not consistent, so, many people can very quickly become isolated in a way that endangers their well-being. 

“What YCC have come up with is a great example of the ways that Indigo FM and our various community partners are adapting to a drastically altered social and economic landscape.

“We also thank Ben Quick from ReConnect Communications for his company’s assistance.”

YCC Manager, David Thorpe said it was early days for the talkback concept in Yackandandah but he hoped the community would get on board and call in to talk about what’s happening in their lives, pass on information or just share a story.

“We really want people to call in, talk to us and, in turn, talk to the wider community,’’ he said.

“Yack people can think of Yack Chat as their own, we are really encouraging feedback which will help draw the community together.

Mr Thorpe said YCC committee members would take on the role of volunteer presenters.

“I think it’s really important to find ways for people to connect and communicate during this time of social isolation and restrictions,’’ he said.

A reminder that the number to call in on is 0419 881 566.