YourSouthShore.ca launches as new digital hub for the region
A new chapter begins for local radio and digital news on the South Shore.
CKBW and Country 100.7 have officially transitioned to YourSouthShore.ca, a new online platform designed to put the community at the centre of its coverage.
Acadia Broadcasting Nova Scotia Regional Manager Eric Whynot says the goal was to build something broader than a traditional station website.
“We wanted to create a hub that’s everything South Shore,” Whynot said. “Our previous websites have always been heavily news-driven. That will not change. But we wanted to enhance that and include more lifestyle content that will drive people to the site and help them see what’s happening in their communities.”
Whynot says local news will remain a core focus. But the new platform expands into events, food, culture and community storytelling.
Users will see more coverage of events happening across the region, along with regular contributions from local voices. Among them are author Vernon Oickle and culinary personality The Kilted Chef, both of whom will provide ongoing content.
“We’ve taken what our strengths have been for many, many years and looked at how we can enhance that,” Whynot said. “This is where we’ve landed.”
The rebrand reflects a shift in focus.
Whynot says the previous websites prominently featured station branding. With YourSouthShore.ca, the emphasis moves from station-first to community-first.
“When you go to the page now, it’s about South Shore first — not station first,” he said.
Similar digital portals have already launched at partner stations in New Brunswick and Ontario. Whynot says reaction in those communities has been positive, particularly with the addition of a weekly newsletter delivering top local stories directly to subscribers’ inboxes.
“That’s been a win in other communities, and we expect it will grow here as people become more aware of it,” he said.
Whynot says the launch also reflects the changing way audiences consume information.
“The way people absorb information nowadays is changing daily. We want to keep up with that,” he said. “Municipal, provincial and federal leaders have stressed the importance of local media. The response has been very good.”
Local leaders on the importance of community media
South Shore–St. Margarets MP Jessica Fancy-Landry says local media plays a key role in connecting residents with what’s happening around them.
“Local media is so important,” Fancy-Landry said. “It helps tell people what’s happening at the grassroots level and keeps communities connected.”
Queens MLA Kim Masland echoed that sentiment.
“Local media is very important, especially as a representative of the community,” Masland said. “It’s a great way to get your message out. I’m really glad to hear you’re launching that and look forward to helping out in any way I can.”