2CH Radio: The History and Evolution of a Sydney Icon
For decades, 2CH served as a staple of the Sydney airwaves, evolving from a faith-based broadcasting initiative into a commercial entity before eventually transitioning into the digital age. Its journey reflects the broader shifts in the Australian media landscape, moving from the traditional AM broadcast band to digital platforms.
Key Facts
- Launch Date: 15 February 1932.
- Original Purpose: The "CH" in 2CH stands for "churches."
- Final AM Broadcast: 22 October 2020.
- Final Sign-off: 10 June 2022 via DAB+.
- Frequency History: Started at 1210 kHz, moved to 1190 kHz (1935), and finally 1170 kHz (1952).
Founding and Early Ownership
2CH began its broadcasting journey on 15 February 1932, operating initially on 1210 kHz. The station was deeply rooted in religious community service, as indicated by its call sign, where "CH" represented "churches."
In 1944, the NSW Council of Churches entered a sub-let agreement with AWA. Under this arrangement, AWA managed the program content for six days a week, while the Council of Churches retained responsibility for Sunday programming.
Commercial Expansion and Corporate Shifts
Over the following decades, the station's ownership shifted toward commercial interests. By 1991, MLC held a 74% shareholding. In April 1994, the station was sold to John Singleton, integrating it into the Macquarie Radio Network. This era of growth saw the station move its studios from Sussex Street to Pyrmont in June 2003.
The station's ownership became a point of regulatory necessity in January 2017. Following the merger of the Macquarie Radio Network and Fairfax Media (the owners of 2GB and 2UE), 2CH was sold for $5.6 million to a consortium consisting of Glenn Wheatley, John Williams, and Oceania Capital Partners. This sale ensured compliance with Australian Communications & Media Authority (ACMA) legislation, which limits a single party to controlling only two radio stations within a specific market.
Financial Challenges and the SEN Acquisition
Despite its long history, the station faced financial headwinds toward the end of the decade. For the year ending March 2019, 2CH reported a loss of $1.9 million against a revenue of $2.4 million. This led to the station being sold in June 2020 to the Sports Entertainment Network (SEN) for $11 million.
To commemorate its legacy, the station celebrated its 75th anniversary on 18 February 2007. A thanksgiving service was held at St Andrew's Anglican Cathedral, presided over by the Anglican Archbishop of Sydney, the Reverend Peter Jensen, with Rev. Dr. Ross Clifford preaching.
The Transition to Digital and Final Closure
Following the acquisition by Pacific Star, it was announced in August 2020 that 2CH would transition to a DAB+ only (Digital Audio Broadcasting) station. While other stations had adopted digital formats, 2CH was likely the first to do so by completely relinquishing its AM radio frequency allocation.
The transition occurred in stages:
- 22 October 2020: Trevor Sinclair hosted the final AM show (Midday-7pm). Chris Kearns broadcast the final program on both AM and DAB+ until midnight.
- Frequency Handover: At midnight on 22 October 2020, the 1170 kHz frequency was officially taken over by 1170 SEN.
- Final Sign-off: After a brief period of simulcasting and an unsuccessful DAB+ trial, 2CH left the airwaves entirely at 6 pm on 10 June 2022, with Jane Nield serving as the final live announcer.
The station also saw the retirement of veteran presenter Bob Rogers in early October 2020. Rogers had been a fixture of the station since 1995, retiring at the age of 93.
2CH Station Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | 15 February 1932 |
| Final AM Frequency | 1170 kHz |
| Key Owners | NSW Council of Churches, AWA, MLC, John Singleton, SEN |
| Final Broadcast Date | 10 June 2022 |
| Successor Frequency | SEN 1170 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the "CH" in 2CH stand for?
The "CH" stands for "churches," reflecting the station's origins and its early association with the NSW Council of Churches.
When did 2CH stop broadcasting on the AM band?
2CH ceased broadcasting on the AM frequency (1170 kHz) at midnight on 22 October 2020.
Who currently uses the 1170 kHz frequency?
The 1170 kHz medium wave frequency is now used by SEN 1170, part of the Sports Entertainment Network.
Why was 2CH sold in 2017?
The station was sold to comply with ACMA legislation that prevents a single entity from controlling more than two radio stations in one market, following the merger of Macquarie Radio Network and Fairfax Media.
How did 2CH eventually end its operations?
After transitioning to a DAB+ only format and attempting a digital trial, the station officially left the airwaves at 6 pm on 10 June 2022.