History of wireless telegraphy and broadcasting in Australia/Topical/Stations/4BC Brisbane/Notes

1930 08
"NOW ON THE AIR. RADIO STATION 4BC. OFFICIAL OPENING. Brisbane's new broadcasting station, 4BC, was officially opened on Saturday night, and, in addition to giving a ball to ball description of the fifth test match, presented a programme of musical items. Mr. J. B. Chandler, principal of the firm responsible for the establishment of the station, said the company had not started in opposition to 4QG; rather it had been inaugurated with the intention of catering further for the radio enthusiast and of stimulating interest in the hobby. It was recognised, said Mr. Chandler, that no programme could please everyone, and with two stations on the air listeners would have a greater choice. The station at present working, Mr. Chandler said, was only temporary; the permanent station would not be completed until October. The work of erecting the station, Mr. Chandler claimed, was something of a record. The components did not arrive in Brisbane until August 8, and the station had already been on the air on three nights. In that short time the studio, aerial, and transmitting apparatus had been erected. As the station was only receiving revenue from advertisements, he appealed for the support of business firms in the city. The Vice-Lord Mayor (Alderman A. Watson), officially opening the station, congratulated the company on its enterprise. Appreciative messages, he said, had been received from Cairns, Winton, and Sydney. With the advent of wireless the lives of the farmers had been brightened. Mr. J. W. Robinson (manager of 4QG) also tendered his congratulations. He said that in these days few business men had the courage to launch out on new enterprises. The new station, there-fore, was deserving of the greatest praise and support. It would fill a long-felt want in providing crystal set listeners with an alternative programme. Radio was increasing in popularity, said Mr. Robinson. There were 1100 more listeners licensed during the last three months, and with the advent of a B class station the interest should be further stimulated."