3KZ

3KZ was a prominent radio station based in Melbourne, Australia. It began broadcasting in 1925 and became one of Melbourne's most popular commercial radio stations throughout much of the 20th century. The call sign “3KZ” stood for the station's location and ownership (K for “Kingston” and Z for “Zinc”, the latter being a nod to the station's parent company, Vacuum Oil Company).

Initially, 3KZ operated on various frequencies before settling on 1170 kHz AM. It played a significant role in shaping Melbourne's radio landscape, offering a mix of music, news, and entertainment programming. During its heyday, 3KZ was known for its music charts, which were influential in promoting popular music in Australia.

In 1990, 3KZ underwent a major transformation when it switched to FM broadcasting and rebranded as “KIIS 101.1,” adopting a more contemporary format. This move reflected broader trends in radio broadcasting toward FM and a shift in audience preferences.

The legacy of 3KZ lives on through its impact on Australian radio history and its role in shaping the development of commercial radio in Melbourne.