This year, Brisbane AM community station Switch 1197 will begin broadcasting on digital radio, but to do this they need money. The station is calling on the community to support the station by becoming members of Switch and participating in a special fundraising promotion selling pixels on its website.

The special fundraiser will see Switch 1197 sell its website’s 450,000 Digital Pixels to help promote listener’s business or personal websites, Facebook or MySpace pages.

Switch 1197 president Nial Francis has told radioinfo he is hoping for a large show of support from the station’s 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 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 www.switch1197.com and online payment is available through PayPal and other methods.

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.