Murray Now

There is a lot of buzz surrounding the recent launch of ‘The Squawk’ a new ‘social networking’ website that allows individuals and businesses in the Murray region to communicate with each other free of charge 24/7 using a combination of text, images and video.

With The Squawk, regional people can find and contribute region specific information and create interest and business groups without the restrictions of physical boundaries. The Squawk is simple to use for both individuals and businesses and an obvious enhancement to any regional business’ marketing mix for 2010.

Chris Meyer, Editor of The Squawk, said: “The Squawk is the first social network designed specifically with the needs of regional Australia in mind. It has local purpose which makes it sstreets ahead of other, largely American, social networks like facebook etc. As a social network, however, it demands active and regular participation from its users to be effective. The site is live now - we encourage everyone to sign up and get involved to help build the strength of the network and make it a powerful tool for everyone involved!”

In social networking, the more ‘value add’ content a user or business puts in, the more they will be talked about and commented on within the network (and often outside it).

Heather Woodrow, from business consultancy firm 100 Monkeys, listed their business on the site within days of the launch: “We see The Squawk as a great way to link up with people with shared interests. From a business perspective it will allow us to keep our finger on the pulse with what people in the regional community and also keeps us involved in an ongoing conversation as a valued contributor. We intend on contributing regularly to add value for users and in turn build on our brand’s reputation.”

Individuals are encouraged to sign up as members to start the ‘conversation’. Businesses can also add free business listings which show as an icon on the site’s live map. Content put on The Squawk is at the user's discretion - and users also have the choice whether or not to allow comments on their content.

Becoming a member of The Squawk is FREE. Sign up at www.thesquawk.com.au. A member page and group can be setup within minutes.

Should you need help or a run through of The Squawk or how it can benefit you/your business contact Chris Meyer at Murray Now (02) 6058 0600 or email info@thesquawk.com.au

“The Australian Government and the NSW Government have contributed to funding this Programme under the Council of Australian Governments Skills Package – Regional Initiatives (Targeting Skills Needs in Regions Programme).”