Top 40 radio came to Australia in 1958. 2UE published the first giveaway chart that was distributed via record stores. The public soon wanted to know what was charting and what song was Number 1.

Top 40 radio came to Australia in 1958. 2UE published the first giveaway chart that was distributed via record stores. The public soon wanted to know what was charting and what song was Number 1.

In its 100 years on air, 2UE has shaped the soundscape of Sydney. This series looks at the station’s legacy, from technological breakthroughs that help deliver news, to pioneering programming innovations like Talkback and Top 40. If Sydney had a soundtrack, it would be heard on a transistor radio on Bondi Beach tuned to the frequency of 954 AM.

In its 100 years on air, 2UE has shaped the soundscape of Sydney. This series looks at the station&rsquo;s legacy, from technological breakthroughs that help deliver news, to pioneering programming innovations like Talkback and Top 40. If Sydney had a soundtrack, it would be heard on a transistor radio on Bondi Beach tuned to the frequency of 954 AM.

2UE. 100 Years At or Near the Top

To commemorate the 100th anniversary of Sydney’s iconic radio station, 2UE, we proudly present "AT OR NEAR THE TOP"—a comprehensive exploration of the fascinating story behind Australia’s oldest commercial radio station still on the air.

Founded on January 26, 1925, 2UE has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of Sydney. This special series dives deep into the station’s rich legacy, celebrating both its on-air triumphs and the behind-the-scenes efforts that have sustained its enduring success.

Through archival recordings, interviews with legendary broadcasters, and stories from those who have been part of its journey, "AT OR NEAR THE TOP" captures the spirit of resilience and community connection that has defined 2UE for a century. From its earliest days as a pioneering voice in radio to its role in modern broadcasting, this series is a tribute to a station that has remained a cornerstone of Australian media.

Join us as we reflect on 100 years of broadcasting excellence, revisiting the voices, moments, and milestones that have made 2UE a cherished part of Australia’s cultural fabric.

To commemorate the 100th anniversary of Sydney&rsquo;s iconic radio station, 2UE, we proudly present "AT OR NEAR THE TOP"&mdash;a comprehensive exploration of the fascinating story behind Australia&rsquo;s oldest commercial radio station still on the air.
Founded on January 26, 1925, 2UE has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of Sydney. This special series dives deep into the station&rsquo;s rich legacy, celebrating both its on-air triumphs and the behind-the-scenes efforts that have sustained its enduring success.
Through archival recordings, interviews with legendary broadcasters, and stories from those who have been part of its journey, "AT OR NEAR THE TOP" captures the spirit of resilience and community connection that has defined 2UE for a century. From its earliest days as a pioneering voice in radio to its role in modern broadcasting, this series is a tribute to a station that has remained a cornerstone of Australian media.
Join us as we reflect on 100 years of broadcasting excellence, revisiting the voices, moments, and milestones that have made 2UE a cherished part of Australia&rsquo;s cultural fabric.

100 Years of 2UE "At or Near the Top"

Episode 10 - TOP 40

Forget partying like it's 1999, the Sydney 2000 Olympics went one better. 

Radio 2UE didn't just keep Sydney in the loop. As the official broadcaster, it helped deliver the games to a (then) record audience of around 3.7 billion.

Forget partying like it's 1999, the Sydney 2000 Olympics went one better.&nbsp; Radio 2UE didn't just keep Sydney in the loop. As the official broadcaster, it helped deliver the games to a (then) record audience of around 3.7 billion.

Episode 12 - Sydney Olympics

Radio delivers companionship to the lonely, news for the inquisitive and music for those wanting to be entertained. But some listeners just want the answer to ONE simple question.

Radio delivers companionship to the lonely, news for the inquisitive and music for those wanting to be entertained. But some listeners just want the answer to ONE simple question.

Episode 17 - Time

When the wife of a Russian spy was bundled into a plane by some shadowy characters, the Cold War had come to Australia. 2UE was on the spot when the crowd turned ugly. But did she want to go or stay?

When the wife of a Russian spy was bundled into a plane by some shadowy characters, the Cold War had come to Australia. 2UE was on the spot when the crowd turned ugly. But did she want to go or stay?

Episode 10 - TOP 40

In 1 playlist(s)

100 Years of 2UE "At or Near the Top"

Social links

Follow podcast

Recent clips