DAB+ Digital Radio lands in Mandurah

Coast FM's Nikki & Darren

Commercial Radio Australia has revealed that DAB+ Digital Radio is to be rolled out in Mandurah on Monday, December 23.

It will make Mandurah the ninth city in Australia, and the first non-capital city, to have access to DAB+.

Mandurah is Western Australia’s second-largest city, and CRA chief executive Joan Warner says she’s pleased to be able to roll it out ahead of Christmas.

“We’re pleased to work with West Coast Radio to launch free to air DAB+ radio services in Mandurah in time for Christmas,” said Joan Warner, chief executive officer of industry body Commercial Radio Australia.

West Coast Radio’s 97.3 Coast FM and 91.7 The Wave are the first two local stations to be available

“We’re excited to officially launch DAB+ with our popular FM stations 97.3 Coast FM and 91.7 The Wave both broadcasting in digital from December 23,” said West Coast Radio CD John De Bellis.

“Listeners can look forward to new stations rolling out in the coming months, offering more exciting choices of music and entertainment.”

Listeners will need a DAB+ radio to tune in, while 70% of all new cars sold in Australia now fitted.

“DAB+ is the biggest upgrade for broadcast radio since FM was launched in the 1980s,” said Warner.

It’s a superior and highly efficient technology and will allow broadcasters to offer better and richer radio services and new stations.

“For instance, broadcasters will be able to offer new formats and pop-up stations to celebrate a festival, tour or sports event.”