The ABA will allocate a transmitter licence to 2KY Broadcasters Pty Ltd to provide a high powered open narrowcasting service in Wagga Wagga in southern NSW.

An auction was to have been held on Thursday after two applications were received for the licence. However, one of the applicants withdrew on the day, ensuring a successful bid by 2KY.

2KY Broadcasters was required to pay the reserve price of $4000.

Acting ABA chief, Giles Tanner, says: “People living in Wagga Wagga can look forward to the introduction of an additional open narrowcasting radio service in the near future.”

Open narrowcasting services have limited reception and target special interest groups, are intended only for limited locations, are provided for a set time, are provided to cover a special event, or broadcast programs of limited appeal.

Most narrowcasting services, already licensed by the ABA, are racing or tourist information services.

The ABA will issue the licence as soon as possible. 2KY must begin the service within six months, unless the ABA approves otherwise in writing.