We've dug deep in the archives and found a fascinating feature from way back in 1961 when the Pacific island of Tonga started up its first radio station.
The opening ceremony was done by Queen Salote of Tonga, and we have photos of her arriving and speaking at the opening. We also have a photo inside the main studio, and the studio building, as well as details of the first staff of the Tonga Broadcasting Commission.
You'll find the full feature at www.radioheritage.net/Story358.asp and it's already been shared with people in Tonga, Fiji and Samoa who have enjoyed listening to the station for over 50 years.
As well, we found a special item in one of our collections, what is believed to be the first letter sent confirming reception of ZCO Tonga. This was for a test broadcast earlier in the year....and it's included in the feature.
ZCO Tonga 'The Call of the Friendly Islands' has gone on to become one of the best known radio stations in the South Pacific. It's now known as A3Z, and still broadcasts to Tonga and other parts of the South Pacific that get its powerful signal.
We hope you'll enjoy this special feature brought to you by our worldwide team of financial supporters. They make all our features possible for thousands to enjoy every week.
If you'd like to join our team of worldwide supporters, the Pay It Forward level starts at $5, the Regular level is $25 and there are many more options.
Full details are at our website www.radioheritage.net and we look forward to including you on our Roll of Honor very soon.
The Team
Radio Heritage Foundationwww.radioheritage.net
Where today's people meet yesterdays radio
The opening ceremony was done by Queen Salote of Tonga, and we have photos of her arriving and speaking at the opening. We also have a photo inside the main studio, and the studio building, as well as details of the first staff of the Tonga Broadcasting Commission.
You'll find the full feature at www.radioheritage.net/Story358.asp and it's already been shared with people in Tonga, Fiji and Samoa who have enjoyed listening to the station for over 50 years.
As well, we found a special item in one of our collections, what is believed to be the first letter sent confirming reception of ZCO Tonga. This was for a test broadcast earlier in the year....and it's included in the feature.
ZCO Tonga 'The Call of the Friendly Islands' has gone on to become one of the best known radio stations in the South Pacific. It's now known as A3Z, and still broadcasts to Tonga and other parts of the South Pacific that get its powerful signal.
We hope you'll enjoy this special feature brought to you by our worldwide team of financial supporters. They make all our features possible for thousands to enjoy every week.
If you'd like to join our team of worldwide supporters, the Pay It Forward level starts at $5, the Regular level is $25 and there are many more options.
Full details are at our website www.radioheritage.net and we look forward to including you on our Roll of Honor very soon.
The Team
Radio Heritage Foundationwww.radioheritage.net
Where today's people meet yesterdays radio