SERVICE: Vision Australia co-ordinator of volunteers Lyn McNamara, volunteer radio panel operator Matthew Scott and volunteer radio reader Maxine Semple. Picture: JODIE DONNELLAN
AFTER 30 years reading the day’s news to blind and low vision listeners, Vision Australia Radio is calling for suggestions to revamp its service.
The radio network, which gives an update of daily newspapers over the airwaves, has this year celebrated its third decade operating out of Melbourne and 20 years broadcasting from Bendigo and regional Victoria.
Bendigo Vision Australia reader Maxine Semple said the volunteer-run radio network had offered huge benefit to listeners over the years and would continue to do so. She said the local studio that reads out newspapers from around the region was a “vital service”.
“It’s a great outlet, and I think it will be for years to come,” she said.
Vision Australia Radio strategic review manager John Simpson said a survey – launched this week – would try to discover what listeners like and what they would like to hear more of.
“It’s time to get a good handle on what listeners are looking for in services now,” he said.
Mr Simpson said the questionnaire aimed to expand the network and figure out new ways the radio network could operate.
“I think a lot of people would be lost without Vision Australia,” she said.
Ms McNamara said the service relied on volunteers and was looking for more people to help out with the early reading shifts.
The Vision Australia survey can be completed online at www.visionaustraliaradio.org or by phone on 1300 88 70 58.
