Staff at Brisbane's only commercial talkback radio station could find out on Wednesday what the Fairfax/Macquarie radio merger means for them.
It has been a nervous wait for 4BC and its sister station Magic 882 since the $200 million deal was floated in late 2014.
The merger was formalised on Tuesday, with Fairfax acquiring 54.5 per cent of Macquarie.
Fairfax CEO Greg Hywood said it had created a stronger national radio network.
"We have brought together the greatest mix of talkback talent as part of one major network with many great stations - 2GB and 2UE in Sydney, 3AW and Magic 1278 in Melbourne, 4BC and Magic 882 in Brisbane, and 6PR in Perth," he said.
"This merger unlocks significant value, provides synergies, and enhances sales opportunities."
Savings are expected to be made by folding together the 2UE and 2GB newsrooms, sales and advertising teams.
Flagship 2GB presenters Alan Jones and Ray Hadley are already heard on 4BC, but their presence is expected to increase with more networked programming.
4BC's own ratings have been declining for several years, despite numerous changes to on-air talent and show formats.
4BC Mornings presenter Patrick Condren has been taking a light-hearted approach to the merger, joking about it on-air, and even tweeting "Don't panic" ahead of the Tuesday announcement.
d-day eve... above all DON'T PANIC — Patrick Condren (@PatrickCondren)
March 30, 2015
Russell Tate will be executive chairman of the combined FRN/MRN entity, with Adam Lang as chief operating officer.
4BC/Magic 882 general manager Anthony Frangi said Mr Lang would not comment on the new business until all staff had been told of potential changes.
*Disclaimer: 4BC and Magic 882 are owned by Fairfax, publisher of Brisbane Times.
