Channel 31 delayed

PERTH’S last free to air television service Channel 31 has had its launch date pushed back by a worldwide shortage of technical parts.

It is now likely the community access station will start broadcasting in June.

Channel 31 chairman Bill McGinnis said other circumstances had also affected the station’s launch.

“The privatisation of the National Transmission Agency and increased local demand for technical equipment by new and existing national networks are also contributing factors delaying our transmission,” Mr McGinnis said.

But the new start date gives Channel 31 more time to build its staff and volunteer base.

Program Production Induction sessions have started for many local program providers wanting access to air time.

Station manager Richard Hodgman said the number of enquiries from the public were increasing daily.

Channel 31 is a public access station, reserved specifically to showcase local performance and present programs of relevance to local viewers.