Today at 10am the Switch 1197 Radiothon 2009 officially launches with a live outside broadcast from Reddacliff Place in Brisbane Square at the top of the Queen St Mall.

This year Switch 1197 will commence broadasting in Digital Radio, but to do this they are calling on the generosity of the community to support the station by joining as members of Switch and participating in an Australian, possibly Worldwide radio first.  Switch 1197 has over 450,000 Digital Pixels for Sale on it's website to help promote listener's business or personal websites, Facebook or MySpace pages.

Switch 1197 President, Nial Francis said he's expecting a large showing of support from dedicated listeners.

"We've been broadcasting on 1197 AM since early 2003 and one thing we are constantly asked by our listeners is when can they expect a clearer, digital signal.  Well in May this year, we hope to be one of the first Brisbane community radio stations to broadcast on Digital Radio, but we need your help"

"By taking part in Radiothon 2009, listeners can show their support of Switch 1197.  There are many ways listeners can support us - by visiting our website and joining as a member, and by purchasing "Digital Pixels".

"The Switch 1197 website is located at http://www.switch1197.com and online payment is available through PayPal and other methods," he said.

Switch 1197 is a radio station that is run by youth, for Brisbane's Youth and Young Families.  It received a permanent broadcast license in 2003 after a number of successful test broadcasts as Switch FM in the late 90's.  Switch 1197 has produced a number of acclaimed programs including "Speak Up", "Are Youth Being Served", "The Rocket Show" and "The Underground"

Radiothon 2009 will run for one month, ending on Friday February 5th.

ENDS.