A group of enthusiastic volunteers is totally tuned in to launching a radio station to Sooke.
What started out as a conversation between three friends over coffee at the beach has gained a lot of momentum in a short period of time, said Sue Elrington, secretary-treasurer and board member for Sooke Radio Society.
"We were talking about doing something for young people in Sooke and the topic of a radio station came up," said Elrignton, who has 20 years experience in commercial and community radio and the CBC. "We got started in March, formed a society and and got our ducks in a row. We want to create an opportunity for young people, seniors, all residents, to come together to have fun learning new skills, and provide a much needed service for our community."
Schuyler Lindberg, Sooke Radio Society president, said the radio station will provide a platform for community volunteers to produce and broadcast music and information that reflects Sooke’s issues, heritage and cultural life.
It will amplify the voices of the community and provide a platform for connection, creativity, and local storytelling, she explained.
"And yes, Lindberg says the new station will try to do traffic reports," Elrington added with a laugh. "Now we want to hear what the community wants. The format will evolve based in part on the ideas that come forward through community engagement. It will strengthen the bonds that make Sooke such a special place to live. We're excited to see how this station will grow and serve as a hub for local engagement."
A community launch meeting is scheduled for Monday, Sept. 16 at 6:30 p.m. in the lower level of the Sooke Community Hall at 2037 Shields Rd.
"This is an opportunity for residents to learn more about Sooke Radio, sign up to volunteer or become a member, and be part of something truly special," Elrington said. "The District of Sooke thinks the time for a radio station is now and they have given us a grant to launch an online radio station for Sooke and by Sooke residents. We wouldn't have gotten this far without the district, and we're very appreciative of their support."
District of Sooke communications co-ordinator Christina Moog said they are proud to support initiatives like this one through the Community Grants Program, which is designed to empower local groups and foster collaboration.
"Sooke thrives on the strength of our community spirit, and this project is a great example of how we come together to create something meaningful for everyone," Moog said.
Key roles need to be filled now, with a commitment of two to three volunteer hours a week to help build the radio station from the ground up, Elrington said.
"There's no experience needed and we're happy to train people," she stressed. "We're just looking for folks with enthusiasm and new ideas and a passion for the community of Sooke."
Those interested in volunteering can sign up on the website at sookeradio.ca. The Sooke Radio Society will launch the station with an online stream, and will consider applying for an FM license in the future ff support for the station warrants it.
Tune into https://www.sooke.live/ for more information.