Macquarie Network

timeline

The takes its name from Governor Macquarie. The network dates back to 1938 when Tasmanian stations joined making it present in all six states and the Australian Capital Territory. The was created for access to programming and the stations remained independently owned. The 19 strong network included five stations that are the nucleus of the Macquarie Radio Network - 2GB, 2UE, 3AW, 4BH (now Magic 882) and 6PR.

By 1952, the was a 22 station network. With 2GB being the parent station, more NSW stations joined. 2UE had left the network whilst 6IX was the Perth member replacing 6PR. The had 40 associated members giving it national coverage.

In the 1960s, the moved to station ownership. By 1964, Associated Television of London owned seven stations including 2GB and 3AW. The stations became under Australian control when John Fairfax Limited buys ATV. The following year, Fairfax creates a subsidiary Macquarie Broadcasting Holdings for the radio network.

In 1969, 4BH is bought by Macquarie Broadcasting Holdings after only been an associate station for over 30 years. In following years, the NSW regional stations are sold leaving the network owning a station in all mainland capitals except Perth.

The came to an end in 1988 when Macquarie Broadcasting Holdings sold its six stations. This was the start of Southern Cross Broadcasting involvement in radio when they bought 3AW.