50 Years of Loving Brisbane

In 2025, 96five celebrates a remarkable milestone—50 years of loving Brisbane.

What began as a prayer in the hearts of a few has grown into a trusted voice of hope, faith, and family across the city. This is not just a story about a radio station—it’s about people. People who prayed, served, gave generously, and believed in the power of God to bring His love to life in everyday moments through media.

“Go into the world. Go everywhere and announce the Message of God’s good news to one and all.” (Mark 16:15, The Message)

As we mark five decades, we reflect on where we’ve come from, how God has used 96five, and how the journey is far from over.

A Dream Sparked in Faith: The Early Days

The story begins in 1974, when FM radio was first introduced to Australia and the concept of community broadcasting was born.

It was then that a group of switched-on believers met at the Canberra Hotel in Brisbane. They saw the opportunity and need for a wholesome program that could cater for the whole family and that could present faith in a real and engaging way.

By July 8, 1975, Family Radio was registered as a public company. But the road from vision to reality was long. Across the late 1970s, 1980s and 90s, volunteers ran test and temporary broadcasts—often out of caravans, churches, or borrowed office spaces – working towards getting a full-time license.

Breakthrough and Growth: Building a Ministry

In 2001—26 years after that first bold step—96five was finally granted its full-time broadcast licence.

In the years that followed, 96five has grown into more than just a radio station. It has become a companion in the car, a lifeline in tough times, and a source of encouragement for thousands of listeners every month. Through SOS Calls, birthday cake drops, school visits, podcasts, the ‘Real Hope’ and live events, lives have been changed—both on-air and off.

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” (Philippians 4:8-9)

After numerous temporary homes, in 2024 – 96five purchased 6 Moorak Street in Taringa. This permanent building, which the team started broadcasting from in late 2024, is the culmination of decades of prayer and investment on many levels.

The Next Chapter: We’re Just Getting Started

As we celebrate 50 years, we’re also looking ahead—because there’s still more to do. Brisbane continues to grow, and so does the need for a message of love and hope. We believe the best is yet to come.

New technology is opening fresh doors. Our digital platforms are reaching people in new ways. Schools, families, and churches still need uplifting content. And we’re more committed than ever to shining light in the dark places and bringing people closer to God’s heart.

We’re not slowing down—we’re just getting started.

“Forget about what has happened; Do not keep going over old history. Be alert, be present. I am about to do something brand-new. It is bursting out! Don’t you see it? There it is! I am making a road through the desert, rivers in the badlands.” (Isaiah 43:19, The Message)

So thank you. Thank you for being part of this incredible story. Whether you’ve just tuned in, or have been with us since the early test broadcasts in that humble caravan—we’re grateful. This is your station. This is your legacy. And together, we’ll continue loving Brisbane for many years to come.