Official launch of Radio Heartbeat at Albany Regional Hospital

26/11/97

Radio Heartbeat - the voice of Albany Regional Hospital - was officially launched by Health Minister Kevin Prince today.

Radio Heartbeat, which began broadcasting from the hospital on October 6, is initially expected to go to air twice a week for two hours from 7pm.

It is the second hospital-based radio station in Western Australia. The first, 'Radio Lollipop' at Princess Margaret Hospital for Children, recently celebrated its 12th year in operation.

"Radio Heartbeat is a wonderful addition to the comfortable and state-of-the-art facilities at Albany Regional Hospital," Mr Prince said.

"It will undoubtedly bring much joy to all patients, but particularly children convalescing at the hospital."

Mr Prince thanked the people of Albany, especially the Albany office of ABC Radio, for their generosity in establishing 'Radio Heartbeat'. He thanked a committee - comprising Albany Regional Hospital general manager Keith Symes and community members Ian Stevens, Kaye Hansord and Marilyn Johnson - for raising more than $8,000 towards the project.

The committee has purchased equipment worth more than $6,000 and the ABC donated their old studio equipment to the hospital and arranged for the equipment to be installed.

"As well as entertaining patients, Radio Heartbeat will also provide important educational information on a wide variety of health matters," Mr Prince said.

"This innovative radio station has a true community focus, with the on-air duties as well as the support roles being undertaken by volunteers.

"I am pleased that Radio Heartbeat will provide a voice for the youth of Albany and will involve local high school students volunteering as announcers."

Radio Heartbeat hopes to increase its broadcasting time to three days a week within the next six months.

Mr Prince called on the Albany community to continue its support for the project.

"I am told the radio station needs at least $1,000 a year to update music and purchase tapes and I would urge the community to give as much support as it can to ensure hospital stays for many people will be a little more enjoyable thanks to Radio Heartbeat," he said.

Media contact: Kirsten Stoney (08) 9221 1377