When 4ZZZ was founded in 1975, few of the activists responsible would have expected it to survive the decade, let alone for half a century and counting.
Over the past 50 years however, 4ZZZ has outlived premiers and police states, weathered cyclones and floods, stood up to riot squads and navigated one eviction and multiple relocations.
Against all odds, 4ZZZ continues to agitate, educate and amplify the voices within its community, providing them with an alternative that speaks to, with and for those who occupy the territory that exists beyond the mainstream.
For five decades 4ZZZ has produced people-powered radio and it remains more relevant now than ever. In an era dominated by AI and algorithms that seek to isolate and misinform, 4ZZZ represents the endless possibilities of a shared humanity and the importance of community.
4ZZZ's history is important, but it only tells half the story. What is truly paramount is its future. Long may it continue to enlighten and to irritate, to unify and incite; viva 4ZZZ!
4ZZZ's annual Radiothon runs until 17 August. The station will also be hosting a stack of events throughout 2025 celebrating their 50th birthday including Beerstock 25 at Crowbar on 30 August.
It's a tribute to the events legacy of providing opportunities to local underground musicians as well as a celebration of the contribution of Rollo (RIP) to 4ZZZ fundraising events held at Club Splurt.
BEERSTOCK was an epic Zed fundraising event that was started in the late '90s by 4ZZZ Beer Show announcers Adam and Scott as part of a push by the station to have niche shows put on events.
When they teamed up with Rollo and Club Splurt at the Treasury Hotel, and then the Railway Hotel, it really took off. Huge line-ups, free entry, cheap beer and Zed would get a cut of the bar! What could be better. It was epic.
The event followed Club Splurt to its various venues over the years and later on after Adam and Scott left the station Rollo continued the event into the 2000s.
The 2025 line-up features John Lee Spider, Knaw, Being Jane Lane, Mouthguard, Burnt Trash, Glycereens, La Fetts, Anna & the Morphics, Dog Trackers, Fancy Boys, Holidays for Hoodies, Aether, and Whoroboros plus special guests Wacols Most Wanted and a birthday celebration for Rollo.
- Nick Stephan is 4ZZZ's live reviews coordinator and host of Suffering Jukebox on Monday mornings.
