Sydney radio station 2GB commenced broadcasting in August 1926 under the ownership of the Theosophical Broadcasting Station Pty Ltd. A controlling interest in the station was purchased in 1936 by Denison Estates Ltd.
Under chairman Sir Hugh Denison 2GB inaugurated the Broadcasting Service Association (B.S.A.) Players in 1936, with the name changing to the Macquarie Players in 1938. In addition to locally-written and produced serials such as Dolly and Dan and Doctor Mac, the Players presented a full-length drama on Sunday afternoons. In February 1938 Denison launched the Macquarie Radio Network and with two years 2GB had become the largest producer of radio drama programs in the Southern Hemisphere.
By 1964 the controlling interest in 2GB was held by Broadcasting Associates Pty Ltd, a company owned by A.T.V. (Australia) Pty. Ltd. The next largest shareholder was John Fairfax with 14%. That year Fairfax purchased ATV's Australian assets, including the 45% share in 2GB. The Macquarie Radio Network, which also owns Sydney station 2CH, is owned by majority stakeholder John Singleton.
