13 November 2007

$375,000 for New 98.5 Sonshine Station

Treasurer Peter Costello and Steve Irons, Liberal Candidate for Swan, today announced a re-elected Coalition Government would commit $375,000 towards a new premises in Como for local community Christian radio station 98.5 Sonshine FM.

Mr Irons said the station’s current premises at Morley were too small for the station to operate both its radio station and 24-hour, seven day a week crisis counselling service.

“The funding will allow 98.5 Sonshine FM to upgrade its studio equipment to digital technology so it can continue to remain a vital service to around 12 per cent of West Australians who tune into the station each week,” Mr Irons said.

“It will also help 98.5 Sonshine FM to expand its premises for its counselling service, CareLine, which last year alone helped over 5500 West Australians who were in crisis or a life threatening situation.

“This counselling service is entirely staffed by volunteers who are trained counsellors and the funding will also be used to purchase furniture and equipment and subsidise fit out and security costs for the CareLine operations.

“98.5 Sonshine FM has provided a valuable community service over the past 20 years. I am pleased the Coalition is committed to assisting the station upgrade its premises and equipment and welcome the station’s move to Como in the Swan electorate.”

Mr Costello congratulated Mr Irons for assisting 98.5 Sonshine FM with its expansion and upgrade.

“It is very important that we support organisations such as 98.5 Sonshine FM, which help a large number of people in need and provide a valuable service to our community,” Mr Costello said.

“We can only continue to provide this support if we have a strong economy, under the careful economic management of the Coalition Government.”