Mackay and The Whitsundays have this morning welcomed the latest star to the local media galaxy, Star 101.9.

Formerly known as Zinc 101.9, the revised Star brand has been built in response to market research and a shift from the rock ties associated with the Zinc brand. The Mackay launch of Star comes a week after the Cairns station also switched from the Zinc brand to Star. 

For the family owned Grant Broadcasters, it’s a decision that’s been made with the vision to create more local radio programming. Chief Operating Officer Alison Cameron expects the Star rebrand to be warmly accepted by the local market.

“One week into our Star rebrand in Cairns and we’ve been overwhelmed by the positive feedback from listeners, clients and the broader business community. We expect Mackay will welcome Star 101.9 in the same way,” she says.  

“As we did in Cairns, we’ve restructured resources in Mackay to be managed independently, which creates rare new on and off air employment opportunities in regional radio,” Ms Cameron adds. 

For Star Mackay, this sees Drive announcer Scott Linden move off air to take on the role of local Content Director for Star and sister station 4MK.

Breakfast announcer Rob Kidd remains in the 5am – 9am timeslot with a 80s, 90s, now music positioner across all shifts. 

Promotionally, an overseas concert experience and an increased schedule of street based activity compliment the station rebrand.

Star can also be found on the 90.7 frequency in Airlie Beach and streamed live at www.star1019.com.au