2EC
| Company type | Subsidiary |
|---|---|
| Industry | Radio broadcasting |
| Predecessor | 2BE (test transmissions began February 1937) |
| Founded | 30 September 1937 |
| Headquarters | Australia |
Area served | South Coast region of New South Wales, Australia (Eurobodalla and Bega Valley) |
| Products | Radio broadcasting (classic hits format) |
| Owner | ARN (Australian Radio Network) |
| Parent | East Coast Radio Pty. Ltd. |
| Website | www |
2EC operates as a radio broadcaster catering to the South Coast region of New South Wales, Australia, specifically targeting the local government jurisdictions of Eurobodalla and Bega Valley. The station is under the ownership of East Coast Radio Pty. Ltd, a subsidiary company of the ARN.
History
Initial test transmissions for 2BE commenced in February 1937, with its official launch occurring on 30 September 1937.
In November 2021, ARN completed the acquisition of 2EC along with other stations previously held by Grant Broadcasters. This transaction grants Grant’s stations, including 2EC, access to ARN’s iHeartRadio digital platform within regional markets. The acquisition was finalized on 4 January 2022. Although 2EC will integrate into ARN’s Pure Gold Network, it will preserve its established branding.
Frequencies
- 765 AM: Provides coverage for Bega Valley and adjacent locations via a transmitter located in Kalaru. This AM frequency was planned for phase-out in March 2021, supplanted by the introduction of 94.5 FM.
- 94.5 FM: Serves Bega Valley and neighboring communities, broadcasting from Mt Mumbulla with an approximate output of 5 kW ERP using an omnidirectional antenna. This FM service was launched in February 2021 as a replacement for the former 765 AM transmission.
- 105.5 FM: Targets the area around Eden and its environs from Bimmil Hill near Eden at a power of 1 kW, covering Merimbula, Eden, and Mallacoota in Victoria. Under optimal conditions, this signal extends throughout much of the licensed region.
- 105.9 FM: Covers the Eurobodalla district along with southern portions of Shoalhaven through a directional transmitter emitting 20 kW from Mt. Wandera near Moruya. The broadcast reaches northward to Shoalhaven and Illawarra areas, occasionally being received as far north as Buladelah on the NSW coast.
Programming
The station follows a classic hits music format consistent with other ARN Regional stations within the Pure Gold Network.
Distinct from many regional Australian broadcasters, 2EC minimizes syndicated content, emphasizing strong local community involvement through programs such as Lost and Found, Job file, and Community Contact. It regularly delivers local news updates and discussions focused on regional happenings and concerns.
The morning show frequently hosts interviews with prominent community leaders, including Bega MP Andrew Constance.
This commitment to locality extends to its online platforms at www.2ec.com.au and www.guidetofarsouthcoast.com.au.
On air lineup
Monday to Thursday:
- Kimmi's Brekky Bar, 6 am–9 am
- Mornings with Sandie, 9 am–12 pm
- Maximum Music Lunch, 12 pm–1 pm
- The Run Home with Pete, 1 pm–5 pm
- The Christian O'Connell Show, 5 pm–6 pm
- JAM Nation with Jonesy and Amanda, 6 pm–7 pm
- 20 20 Retro Countdown with Andrew Thain, 7 pm–9 pm
Friday:
- Kimmi's Brekky Bar, 6 am–9 am
- Mornings with Sandie, 10 am–12 pm
- Maximum Music Lunch, 12 pm–1 pm
- The Run Home with Pete, 1 pm–5 pm
- The Christian O'Connell Show, 5 pm–6 pm
- JAM Nation with Jonesy and Amanda, 6 pm–7 pm
- 20 20 Retro Countdown with Andrew Thain, 7 pm–9 pm
Saturday:
- Morning Glory with Matty Johns, 8 am–10 am
- iHeart Countdown with Mikey, 4 pm–6 pm
Weekend segments include "The Best of Kimmi Saker", The Locker Room, and Real Estate Show. Uncommon among New South Wales stations, 2EC broadcasts both NRL and AFL games due to its proximity to Victoria. AFL matches air Saturdays from midday, while NRL coverage features Friday night, Saturday night, and Sunday afternoon slots through the 2EC Continuous Call Team.
Affiliations
- Croc Media (coverage of AFL)
- 2GB Sydney (coverage of NRL)
Power FM South Coast, an affiliated station, focuses on contemporary hit music listeners.