The Oberon Review learned this week from the Digital Television Switchover Task Force that the township will not be changing to digital television on February 9, 2012 as previously informed.

Regional Broadcasting Australia gave no explanation for the delay, except saying the new changeover date is now April 2012.

It has confirmed analog services in the area will remain on-air until the switchover occurs.

Desite this week’s delay, Oberon’s switchover date is still classified as an “early switchover” because the date is still two months ahead of southern and central NSW, the ACT and the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area (which is in early June).

An early switchover occurs when analog TV is switched off on the same day digital TV is switched on.

This happens because the transmitter being upgraded is unable to broadcast both analog and digital TV at the same time.

Although broadcasters have confirmed the new date as April, there is still a chance it will be subject to change. Residents, however, should get ready for the switch to digital TV now.

Households in Oberon that require practical assistance to make the switch, such as the elderly, people with disabilities and their carers, may also be entitled to the Household Assistance Scheme, which is now available. Call Centrelink on 1800 556 443.