Day: December 17, 2024

Hugh Marks appointed Managing Director of the ABC

ABC Chair Kim Williams AM today announced media and production industry executive Hugh Marks as the new Managing Director of the ABC.

Mr Marks was appointed by the ABC Board unanimously following an extensive domestic and international search.

“Hugh is a highly successful media executive, with more than 30 years’ experience in Australia and internationally in content production, programming, and distribution, working across all platforms from television, radio, and online publishing and with extensive news experience,” Mr Williams said.

“This breadth of experience is rare and will be critical to the ABC as we look to further strengthen our reach and engagement with the Australian community.

“Hugh is unusually well qualified to lead the ABC’s editorial and creative production teams online and in audio and video across the spectrum of ABC delivery responsibility in news, children’s education, documentary, international and diverse drama for Australian citizens as viewers, listeners and readers across every major delivery platform available.

“Hugh was a stand-out candidate, not only for his experience across every facet of the media, but for his strong track record of leading media organisations and driving substantial and sustained audience engagement. He is the right person to lead the ABC as we plan right now for renewal and investment.”

Mr Marks comes to the ABC after nearly three years at Dreamchaser – a contemporary Australian content studio he co-founded and co-led, which partners with Australia’s leading creators to develop, finance, produce, and distribute premium content across all genres for the global film and television market.

He was previously CEO of Nine Entertainment which grew from an $800 million television network into a more than $5 billion predominantly digital, modern media business in a declining advertising market under his nearly six-year leadership.

During that time, he oversaw the merger of Nine and Fairfax Media – the largest media transaction in Australia over the past 30 years, which reshaped the media landscape – and a major renegotiation of sporting rights and many other realignments in the settings for news, information and entertainment media to Australians.

Mr Marks said he was honoured to lead the ABC and excited for the opportunities ahead.

“I appreciate the confidence Kim Williams and the Board have placed in me with this appointment.

“It is an amazing time to be working in media. There are so many opportunities to deliver quality news and entertainment to Australians, but choices to make in what we prioritise in doing so. Making the right choices is what will determine our success into the future.

“I look forward to working with everyone at the ABC as it continues to host and guide discussion on the issues of importance to Australia and lead in the delivery of quality, truthful and engaging news, and premium content.

“The ABC is an iconic and formidable media organisation. No other institution has the reach and impact of the ABC, and it is a privilege to lead the ABC workforce as we confront the many technology and programming opportunities before us.”

Mr Marks has been appointed for a five-year term, in accordance with the ABC Act, and will serve as Editor-in-Chief with the ultimate responsibility for all editorial content with responsibility to the ABC Board.

His appointment is effective from Monday 10 March 2025.

Jonathon Kendall farewells Victorian Statewide Mornings

Jonathan Kendall 16x9

 

ABC Victorian Statewide Mornings presenter Jonathon “Jonno” Kendall has announced he is farewelling the role after three years to relocate to the Surf Coast with his family.

Collaborating with a team of content makers across the state, Jonno helped build the program to its current success since its introduction to local audiences in 2022.

Jonno was instrumental in increasing live audience engagement, thanks in part to his involvement in several outside broadcasts including in Bendigo, Morewell and Churchill, plus projects such as the Statewide Public Transport Special.

Jonno, who will present his last program on Friday 20 December, said it had been a privilege to host.

“I’ve loved my time on the show,” he said. “The Mornings team works really hard to reflect, educate and have fun with listeners every day.

“We’ve been rewarded by listeners choosing to tell their stories — sometimes really difficult ones — on air with us.

“I will be taking up a short-term role with the ABC in Geelong at the end of January. The house we’re moving into has a big garden and a chook pen so I might have to call our Mornings’ gardening gurus next year for some advice.”

Regional Editor Victoria Toni Hetherington expressed her gratitude for Jonno’s contribution to the program and wished him all the best for the future.

Statewide Mornings will return to air in January when an announcement of the new presenter will be released.

A VERY SPECIAL HITMAS AND NEW YEARS EVE PARTY YOU CAN’T MISS: THE HIT NETWORK HAS YOU COVERED FOR EVERY FESTIVE EVENT

The Hit Network is well and truly in the festive spirit, announcing the return of A Very Special Hitmasand a jam-packed New Year’s Eve party hosted by Lucy & Nikki.

Continuing its storied tradition, A Very Special Hitmaswill light up Christmas Day with the Hit Network’s biggest talents, including Carrie & Tommy and Jimmy & Nath, who will host a day-long Christmas party packed with everyone’s favourite festive tunes. There will be special appearances from LiSTNR’s favourite podcast hosts, including Luke & Sassy Scott, Matt & Alex, and KICPOD with Steph & Laura.

Produced by two of Santa’s favourite elves, Melbourne’s 101.9 The Fox Announcer and Assistant Content Director, Tim Lee, and SCA National Head of Audio Production and Sound Design, David Konsky, A Very Special Hitmaswill be the perfect place for the families’ favourite Christmas tunes.

The celebrations won’t stop there as Lucy Jackson and Nikki Westcott will wrap up a massive 2024 with a huge New Year’s Eve party airing across The Hit Network. Australia’s loosest party boys Peking Duk and other surprise guestswill join Lucy & Nikki, as DJ Konsky will have the party vibes sky-high with his energy-infused mashups.

As the weather heats up, Sean ‘Seany B’ Brown turns up the volume, delivering the ultimate soundtrack for every feel-good moment, family adventure, and summer escape on Summer Nights, airing from 6pm–9pm.

Amanda Lee, Head of Hit Metro Content and Content Director at 101.9 The Fox, said: “The Hit Network is the perfect soundtrack for holiday vibes this year! From the magic of Christmas morning to the countdown to midnight on New Year’s Eve, we’ve got every moment covered. Whether you’re unwrapping presents with family or raising a glass with friends, Hitmas and our New Year’s Eve Party will be the soundtrack to your most memorable celebrations.”

Keeping listeners company on the way to family catchups or while catching a breath at home after a crazy silly season, listeners can keep it locked to the Hit Network nationally or via the LiSTNR on Christmas Day for A Very Special Hitmas. 

Lucy & Nikki’s New Year’s Eve Party will be available across the Hit Network nationally or via the LiSTNR from 7pm on Tuesday, 31 December.

 

About the Hit Network

The Hit Network is Australia’s biggest radio network broadcasting across metro and regional markets with a unique collection of 50 FM and DAB+ stations. The Hit Network targets people aged 25 – 54, skews female and features a mood focused, ‘feel great’ pop music format alongside the most entertaining local breakfast and national drive shows. It is home to popular personalities including Carrie Bickmore, Tommy Little, Fifi Box, Brendan Fevola, Nick Cody, Abby Coleman, Matty Acton, Stav Davidson and many more.

The Hit Network entertains more than 6 million Aussie radio listeners across B105, 2Day, The Fox, SAFM, Mix94.5, Sea FM, 41 Hit stations plus DAB+ stations including Oldskool 90s Hits, Buddha Hits, Oldskool 80s Hits, RnB Fridays Radio and Dance Hits. All Hit Network’s content is also available live or on demand on the LiSTNR app.

POSITION: Radio Announcer/Production Manager and Radio Announcer/Music Director, Crow FM 90.7, Wondai QLD

Are you passionate about radio, community, and great music? Crow FM 90.7, the South Burnett’s go-to community station, is seeking Expressions of Interest for two exciting roles:

  • Radio Announcer/Production Manager
  • Radio Announcer/Music Director

These paid positions offer a unique chance to connect with the South Burnett community, showcase your creativity, and contribute to shaping the station’s dynamic sound.

Key Responsibilities

For Both Roles:

  • Host live and pre-recorded radio shows that inform, entertain, and resonate with our audience.
  • Contribute to community engagement by developing local content, conducting interviews, and hosting interactive segments.
  • Maintain the station’s signature sound and uphold Crow FM’s mission of being a vital part of the South Burnett.

Radio Announcer/Music Director Specific Duties:

  • Oversee music programming, including scheduling playlists.
  • Stay attuned to listener feedback to ensure our music offering resonates with our listener demographic (over 30s).
  • Maintain and update the station’s music library, balancing a mix of classics and fresh tracks.

Radio Announcer/Production Manager Specific Duties:

  • Create and produce high-quality audio content, including station IDs, promos, commercials, and special features.
  • Collaborate with the team to plan and execute station promotions and special features.
  • Collaborate with account managers and sponsors to produce engaging announcements and promotional material.

About You

  • Proven experience in radio announcing is essential, with a background in production or music scheduling highly regarded.
  • A confident on-air presence with the ability to connect naturally with listeners.
  • Technical proficiency in audio editing software and familiarity with radio automation systems.
  • Passionate about community-focused radio and music from the 60s through to today.
  • Flexibility to work a varied schedule, including some evenings or weekends.

Why Join Crow FM?

  • Be part of a community-driven station with a loyal, engaged audience.
  • Work with a great team in the picturesque South Burnett region.
  • Opportunity to grow professionally in the dynamic world of radio and production.
  • Play a key role in delivering the Burnett’s Best Music Mix while building your own on-air and behind-the-scenes skills.

How to Apply

Please send your Expression of Interest, including a cover letter and resume, to Rowena Irvine, General Manager, at manager@crowfm.com.au.

Applications close 31st of March 2025

Join us in delivering great radio, connecting with the South Burnett community, and showcasing the music we all love. Let’s make an impact together!