Put two iconic words like Bondi and Radio together and you’re bound to get a number of people trying to lay claim to a brand.

The history of the Bondi Radio station’s ownership over recent years has been convoluted and the number of ongoing imitations have created a complex journey say the current owners and Bondi locals, Messrs Bowser and Mathers. 

“A number of rogue members of the public have set up Bondi Radio stations online, all in an attempt to pass themselves off as radio stations in Bondi and as the original Bondi Radio, that has existed on AM then FM and online for a century in Bondi. Working with the federal government body for Radio Broadcasting, AMCA plus APRA & AMCOS has helped clear this up”.

Broadcasting since 1907 with the establishment of the world’s first Surf Life Saving Clubs, Bondi Radio was used to broadcast surf conditions and local events. Founded formally in 1947 when the ABC regulated the airwaves, Bondi Radio 88.0 FM has been the leader in local events, news, arts, education and entertainment for 70 years.

Nick Boshier – Bondi Hipster/Soul Mates and Secretary Bondi Beach Precinct Program Director says, “Bondi Radio has many talented people from Bondi On Air right now, some have started their careers on Bondi Radio and been around the world and back again with astounding accolades”. Of note is local Bondi band and regular Bondi Radio contributor “Yolanda Be Cool” who just hit 200 million YouTube views of their hit track “Sugar Man”.

Lenore Kulakauskas, Convenor Bondi Beach Precinct says “After all the confusion about who is Bondi Radio, caused by the easy availability of streaming, it’s great to have the real Bondi Radio station on the airwaves.”

A local Bondi musician stated “The artists are becoming increasingly confused with the number of slight variations to the name ‘Bondi Radio’, some having simply registered their website names in an attempt to claim any confused artists and fans as their own.” 

“Bondi Radio has updated its programming and is in the process of introducing an entirely new program slate, without forgetting its roots,” say the owners. “It aims to not only keep the loyal local listeners happy, but also share some new music and entertainment with the world that has never hit the airwaves, in the hope of continuing the legacy of being Australia’s international launch pad for artists and creative talent.”

To listen online go to their website or listen on air at 88.0 FM or on iHeart radio.