LAST BROADCAST

Dominion, Volume 30, Issue 260, 30 July 1937, Page 2

LAST BROADCAST

2ZD Masterton Closes Down Dominion Special Service. Masterton, July 29. "2ZD Masterton,” a cheery cirll which for the past 11 years has greeted radio listeners throughout New Zealand was heard for the last time ro-night when the station, having been purchased by the Government, gave its lust broadcast. For eleven years the station has been owned and operated by Mr. W. D. Ansell, who at all times has put his service at the disposal of local societies and organisations. Many relays have been successfully carried out, and. in emergencies, such as earthquakes and floods, the station was always ready and did its part in alleviating suffering and anxiety and in keeping listeners fully informed. On the occasion of the Hawke’s Bay earthquake in 1931, 2ZD was one of the first stations in New Zealand to broadcast the news of the disaster, which it received from warships stationed at Napier. The local station maintained an allnight service, and one which was greatly appreciated by many anxious listeners a few years later when Masterton experienced a severe quake. 2ZD, after receiving some damage, was rapidly repaired and brought on the air to alleviate the fears of country settlers Many will remember the station’s valuable work when, some years ago, a party of Hampers was lost in the Tararua Ranges. 2ZD broadcast for supplies and volunteer searchers, and in a remarkably short time they were at hand. Searchers out iu the mountains carried a portable equipment, and in this way the station kept the public advised and controlled both the searching operations and the distribution of supplies. One of the most successful relays was carried out on the occasion of the English Rugby footballers’ game with Wairarapa played at Masterton some years ago. This broadcast was received all over the Dominion. At the conclusion of to-night's broadcast, Mr. Ansell thanked all listeners who had shown interest in the station and members of-the Masterton Radio Club, who had helped with concerts and relays. , : “If I have been of any service to listeners throughout the Wairarapa and practically the whole of the North Island, I shall feel I have done my bit,” said Mr. Ansell. “Good night, everybody, and good-bye.”