ABC Broken Hill
| Company type | Public broadcaster |
|---|---|
| Industry | Radio broadcasting |
| Founded | July 29, 1948 |
| Headquarters | Broken Hill , Australia |
Area served | Outback New South Wales (including Broken Hill, Menindee, White Cliffs, Silverton) |
Key people | Andrew Schmidt (Chief of Staff) |
| Products | Local radio programming |
ABC Broken Hill operates as an ABC Local Radio broadcaster headquartered in Broken Hill, New South Wales, serving the neighboring outback territories, including Menindee, White Cliffs, and Silverton.
Distinct from the rest of New South Wales, ABC Broken Hill is integrated into the South Australia ABC Local Radio network and sources programming from ABC Radio Adelaide during periods when it does not air its own shows. This unique setup aligns with Broken Hill's position within the Central Time zone, differing from the Eastern Time observed throughout NSW.
History
Launching on 29 July 1948 under the call sign 2NB/760 AM, the station's inauguration took place at Broken Hill Town Hall with participation from local dignitaries and ABC officials who highlighted its commitment to providing localized content. Early broadcasts featured live performances by regional musical acts. The initial team consisted of just two staff members, Jeff Medwell and Frank Scott. In February 1966, a fire devastated the original studios located at 194 Argent Street, resulting in damage valued at around 6,000 pounds. Subsequently, new facilities were established at 454 Argent Street and officially opened in February 1971 by ABC Chairman Robert Madgwick. The station celebrated its 50th year of operation in 1998.
Local programming
During weekdays, ABC Broken Hill offers locally produced radio segments from 6:15 to 11:00 am, complemented by ABC News updates at 6:30, 7:30, 8:30, and noon.
- Breakfast (6:15am–10:00am) – Andrew Schmidt
- Mornings (10:00am–11:00am) – Marcus Wilson
- Saturday Breakfast (5:30am–7:45am) – Ron Josephs
- Saturday Opening Serve (8:30am–9:00am) – Alex Page
At times outside these local broadcasts, programming is relayed from ABC Adelaide or ABC Sydney.
Staffing
Andrew Schmidt leads as Chief of Staff at ABC Broken Hill. The team comprises three multiplatform news reporters, a rural affairs correspondent, a features journalist, a radio presenter, a producer, along with several casual employees. These journalists provide content across various local channels such as the breakfast show and social media platforms, as well as contributing to television, radio, and digital services across the broader ABC network.
Coverage area
The broadcast footprint of ABC Broken Hill encompasses an extensive section of outback New South Wales, primarily including Broken Hill City Council, Wentworth Shire Council, Central Darling Shire Council, and neighboring unincorporated regions.