Hidden in History is a weekly column that unearths the quirky, curious and sometimes eyebrow-raising tales from Shepparton’s past. Provided by the Shepparton Heritage Centre, these articles are rooted in fact — but told with a wink and a sense of humour.
Following discussions between the British and Australian governments early in 1941, both agreed to establish in Australia a powerful radio station capable of broadcasting around the world.
Shepparton was finally selected as the location for this international high-frequency broadcasting station because of its open geographical location, the availability of electric power and water supplies, and its proximity to the eastern seaboard capitals as important centres of program supply.
The Postmaster-General’s Department (the forerunner to Australia Post) was charged with the design, construction and operation of the station and in May 1944, the first unit, a 50 kilowatt transmitter, went into operation.
The station originally had three transmitters, and in the 1950s and 1960s, additional transmitters were installed in a bid to meet an increasing international broadcasting role.
The Shepparton Heritage Centre is always looking for volunteers. If you are interested, contact the centre on 4831 8659.
