A major milestone in regional broadcasting was reached this week with the official launch of STAR 92.1, signalling an exciting new chapter for radio in North East Victoria and Southern New South Wales.

Formerly broadcasting as 1566AM 3NE, the station has transitioned to the FM band following extensive consultation and approval from the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA).

“This move represents far more than a simple frequency change,” said Mark Taylor, chief executive officer of ACE Radio.

“It’s a strategic evolution—one that enhances our sound quality, expands our reach, and delivers stronger outcomes for our listeners and commercial partners.

"With the addition of STAR 92.1, we now proudly operate two dynamic FM brands across the North East and Border region.”

The station’s launch brings a renewed emphasis on locally driven content, headlined by the return of a familiar voice to the breakfast shift—Matt Hobbs.

A beloved fixture of the Wangaratta radio scene since the late 1990s, Hobbs (affectionately known as Hobbsy) returns to the microphone to entertain and inform the community he’s long served.

"It's a great honour to be asked to be part of the new station, let alone being on breakfast which is pretty amazing," Hobbs said.

He underscored the importance of this station guiding its focus "100 per cent local".

"We really want the locals to be part of it," he said.

"We want people to really embrace the station, to know and love it.

"It really is a new era."

Taylor also confirmed the transition is part of a broader network-wide initiative, with several more AM-to-FM conversions planned over the next 12 to 18 months.

ACE Radio’s chief marketing officer Grant Johnstone said the launch was the first step in a comprehensive brand revitalisation.

“The debut of STAR 92.1 marks the beginning of a wider transformation for our radio group,” Johnstone said.

“We’re also rebranding EDGE FM in this market, with a complete refresh of station and corporate branding set to roll out in the coming months.

"Together, EDGE FM and STAR 92.1 will redefine the role of local radio—blending high-quality music, trusted local news, standout personalities, and deep community engagement.”

With its focus on strong local content and fresh on-air talent, STAR 92.1 said it is poised to resonate with both loyal listeners and a new generation of radio fans across the region.

The closure of 1566AM 3NE ends after more than 70 years of broadcasting under that name, which has been owned and operated by Ace Radio since 2017.