People powered since 1976 – 2XX Canberra turns 50

This morning, July 2 at 6am, 2XX marked exactly 50 years since it first was heard in Canberra and surrounds. The station has multiple events to celebrate the occasion.

Tonight, ABC Radio National‘s Jonathan Green and filmmaker Sue Maslin AO, both of whom credit their careers to early days spent at 2XX, will be the speakers at a Birthday Gala at Canberra Museum and Gallery (CMAG). The MC is Genevieve Jacobs AM.

That is a ticketed event from 5pm, which you can still attend, and will also include a screening of the 1989 2XX documentary I’m On Air, with the gala broadcast live.

Should you be in Canberra anytime through till September 6, CMAG is also hosting a 2XX People-Powered Radio: Celebrating 50 years exhibition exploring the stories, voices and communities behind Canberra’s first community radio station.

Entry is free.

Also free to listen to is People Powered 50 Years, podcasts of radio shows telling 2XX’s story through its people. From Midnight Oil’s frontman Peter Garrett, sound designer Kimmo Vennonen to its many multicultural programs and volunteers, Indigenous voices represented through programs like Land Rights Now and every musical genre you can imagine including the Doug Anthony All Stars, the station has championed what mainstream media neglects.

You can listen here: https://www.2xxfm.org.au/news/2xx-turns-50/

Finally, the station is also having a birthday fundraiser mixed tape and live music dance party this Saturday July 4 at 2XX alumni Dave Howe’s Dissent Cafe and Bar. Festivies commence at 4pm with DJ Mista Nige and live bands from 8pm until midnight.

Entry from 4-7:30pm is free or by voluntary donation at the door, with all proceeds going to the station. After 8pm tickets are $15. less for concession card holders. 2XX merchandise will be available for sale between 4-8pm. More information and tickets for any of the birthday festivities are here.