1975 was the year the vision for 96five (Family Radio Ltd) was birthed. The history of the ministry has helped shape our Purpose today.
We are so blessed as a station to be able to look back at the legacy and sacrifice of those who have gone before, and truly marvel at what God has done and where He has positioned us today.
The history and story of 96five is an incredible one – full of hope, persistent purpose and passion. Over 45 years ago, a group of believers met with a God breathed vision for a Christian Radio station committed to broadcasting radio content that adds value to an individual’s life, is suitable for the entire family and that ultimately makes Christ known.
Some of the key milestones in the journey of 96five are listed below:
1974 – The Whitlam Government introduced FM radio, allowing improved sound quality and the licensing of additional radio stations, many of which will be community owned. The ‘Community’ broadcasting sector was born.
1975 – In response to the new licensing opportunities, a group met at the Canberra Hotel in Brisbane with a God birthed vision for what was to become 96five. They were passionate and determined to provide every home in Brisbane with the alternative of a balanced wholesome program that would cater for the whole family with the positive objective of presenting Christ and his salvation as a normal and essential ingredient of family life.
1977 – A permit was secured for a temporary transmission and Family Radio’s first segment, a 3-hour musical program compiled by Ron Clarke went to air from the Arana Hills Baptist Community site.
When Brisbane’s ethnic language community broadcaster 4EB was licenced, Family Radio secured a 2-hour Sunday afternoon block with Ron Clark and John Rogers as producers/announcers.
1982 – Having set up a studio in a caravan Family Radio broadcast its first seven-day continuous broadcast with a temporary license.
Over the next 15 years, Family Radio made three separate licence applications to the regulator the Australian Broadcasting Authority. Each round of competitive licencing had multiple applicants and unfortunately Family Radio was unsuccessful each time.
1997 – A well-researched and comprehensive application finally led to a full-time, temporary license being issued to Family Radio. The 96.5FM frequency was allocated which saw the birth of 96five Family Radio.
2001 – The success in obtaining a full-time license in October 2001 can be adequately summed up in an excerpt of a speech made by one of the founders Jim Fisher;
“Mere words could not describe the sense of joy and fulfilment which thrilled me when the announcement was made in October 2001 heralding the granting of the license to 96five family radio. How encouraging, how thankful to God we are… “
With 26 years between the birth of Family Radio and obtaining a full-time broadcast license we stand here today so thankful for the stoic determination, passion and obedience of those who have doggedly pursued the work of the Lord in providing our city with a hope filled alternative on the FM dial.
The 96five journey continues and we are excited to see what God has planned for our future. Thank you to the thousands of supporters who continue to pray for us and our city; who volunteer their time and effort to be His hands and feet; and for your continued financial support – it simply would not be possible to achieve what we have without you.
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You can be a part of the 96five vision into the future by becoming a financial supporter, volunteer or prayer partner.