2RPH
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Radio station 2RPH (aka Radio for the Print Handicapped) is an Australian radio reading service that reads newspapers and magazines for the benefit of those who have difficulties reading for themselves. It is the Sydney flagship station of the Radio Print Handicapped Network.
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[edit] History
The need for a Radio Reading Service was realised in NSW in 1983 with the establishment of 2RPH as a Community Benefit Organisation, incorporated as a Co-operative Society. The station began operating on 12 April 1983.
The first broadcast frequency was off the main broadcast band, and was thus unsuitable, as many people could not receive the station. The problem was partly resolved by a move to a more suitable band location, and further in 1993 when the Commonwealth Government provided the station with transmission facilities previously used by commercial station 2WS. These facilities are still in use and provide a strong signal to most parts of Greater Sydney and some suburbs outside the Metropolitan Area.
[edit] Audience
Originally designed for the vision impaired, elderly, and infirm, these days many English as a second language (ESL) teachers instruct their students to tune in and follow the printed word on air.
[edit] Programming
Volunteers prepare, produce, and present all the programs, including readings from magazines and other publications, which are pre-recorded. Many of these recorded programs are re-broadcast by RPH stations in other parts of Australia and the Radio Reading Service in New Zealand. 2RPH is the largest supplier of programs to this network, though most stations use little network material.
Applicants for on-air work must pass an audition carefully designed to demonstrate their skills at reading aloud. Volunteer positions are often available for behind-the-scenes duties.
