River 94.9 Ipswich celebrates 30th birthday

Marnie & Campo

River 94.9 was the first FM radio station in Ipswich, but back then it was on the 106.9 frequency and known as QFM.

QF wasborn at 1:06pm on February 25, 1990, and would go on to become Star 106.9 before changing frequencies and names to become River.

Ipswich has now had a commercial radio station for three decades, and on its birthday, River 949 is going back and playing the Top 90 of 1990 all day from 9am.

Marnie and Campo are catching up with a whole lot of ex-QFM and Star employees across the day.

“We’re excited to celebrate this amazing milestone of 30 years of local FM radio broadcasting to our region – from our North Ipswich location,” said general manager Shane O’Brien.

“As one of the first FM broadcasters in Queensland, it’s been a great privilege to provide the people of Ipswich, Lockyer Valley, Somerset, Scenic Rim, Brisbane, Toowoomba (… and beyond) with great music, entertainment and LOCALb content since February 1990.

“The Broadcast Centre at North Ipswich has been owned by several operators, and hosted several radio brands over the 30 years … from Q-FM to Star to River … it’s even changed frequencies since it first ‘switched on the microphone’ back in 1990 – but one thing hasn’t changed: the commitment to quality local radio broadcasting for our community.

“Today, River 94.9 is undoubtedly THE most local, relevant and engaging radio station in SEQ, and has a well-earned reputation for being a champion of, and for, the community. The outstanding dedication of all our staff – on and off the air – has continued to make this happen.”

O’Brien continued; “On this special occasion, I’d like to thank everyone that’s been part of the journey the past 30 years – staff, listeners, suppliers and fans – we wouldn’t be here today without the amazing efforts of many amazing people.

“I’m incredibly proud of our team here at River 94.9, and look forward to another 30 years of providing outstanding radio to our local community”.