ECR beams big time from the Bay

A NEW East Coast Radio (ECR) transmitter will from tomorrow (Friday) broadcast with crystal clarity to residents of uMhlathuze and beyond.

ECR General Manager Boni Mchunu says the move follows after a recent survey about the quality of the station’s FM signals identified Richards Bay as an area with particularly poor signal.

Mchunu says this area is a key node – both from a commercial and a potential audience perspective – and that the station applied to ICASA for a new, more powerful transmitter to better serve the people of the city.

She said the station was very excited about the opportunity to increase its footprint in the greater uMhlathuze area.

‘We hope to win over the hearts of more people in this area with our entertainment, information and music offering.
The station’s Programming Manager, Zane Derbyshire, explained what was involved in getting a new transmitter installed.

‘Once our application was granted by ICASA, it was installed at a suitable site.

‘The frequency went through a test phase before the launch.’

The ZO and ECR are teaming up to share news and information in print, online and over the radio waves – so be sure to follow our journalists who will be discussing breaking news and local stories with the ECR jocks.

Editor Dave Savides said it makes sense for the ‘eye’ reach of the Zululand Observer and the ‘ear’ reach of ECR to solidify their already strong working relationship.

‘It’s exciting that the city is being recognised as a strong economic audience by ECR, and just reiterates that our very own ‘Sizzle City’ is a place of commercial, tourism and industrial importance.’

Live broadcasts

The ECR show teams will be broadcasting live from Richards Bay on Friday between 6am and 9pm at the following venues:

6-9am: Richards Bay High School

9am-3pm: Boardwalk Inkwazi Shopping Centre

3-9pm: Cubana restaurant.

There will be a second launch event on Saturday between 10am and 2pm at CTM in Empangeni.