Category: Australian

Summer is the perfect time to unwind with a great book and Jess Rowe is here to guide you to your next page-turner with The Jess Rowe Big Summer Book Club on LiSTNR. In this exclusive series, Jess shares her favourite reads, explores the stories that have shaped her, and engages in heartfelt conversations with authors, taking listeners on a journey filled with laughter, reflection, and inspiration.

Embracing the summer spirit, Jess is bringing her trademark humour and honesty to The Jess Rowe Big Summer Book Club with seven episodes released weekly throughout December and January. Jess curates an eclectic collection of books that have brought her hope during her darkest moments, reveals the authors who empowered her to silence her critics, and shares the memoir her husband, Peter Overton, insisted she read – and why she couldn’t put it down.

In each episode, Jess shares intimate reflections on her chosen books, exploring themes like self-acceptance, mental health, and personal growth. She also sits down with her favourite authors and public figures – including Liane Moriarty, Jelena Dokic, and Julie Goodwin -diving deep into their work, stories, and lives.

Jess Rowe said: “I’ll be sharing some books that have resonated with me. It is quite an eclectic collection made up of what is on my bookshelf and in my Kindle – because you know how much I love reading my Kindle in bed at night! I hope these books will strike a chord with you and offer a lovely escape from everyday life.”

Sam Cavanagh, LiSTNR Head of Entertainment & Culture, said: “The Jess Rowe Big Summer Book Club is more than a reading list – it’s a celebration of storytelling and inspiration, perfect for lazy summer days or holiday road trips.  Jess has built a community around her podcast that love to go deep on big topics.  Through this series, her listeners will discover books that make them laugh, think, and feel – everything The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show podcast has become famous for.”

Episode 1 of The Jess Rowe: Big Summer Book Club is available to stream now on LiSTNR, with new episodes dropping weekly on Wednesday.

About LiSTNR:

LiSTNR is a curated and personalised, free app offering radio, podcasts, music, and news, creating a new audio destination for all Australians. Featuring a fun and intuitive onboarding process, LiSTNR delivers an audio destination that is built for individual listeners’ routines and preferences. Highly personalised, it provides listeners a new world of audio entertainment, with their own daily feed of audio and easy discovery of new content through curated recommendations. Available across a large array of devices including both iOS and Android, CarPlay and Android Auto, Google Assistant and Alexa and Android TV, LiSTNR enables a fantastic listening experience, anytime and anywhere. Open your Ears to a new world of audio – download the free app today. LiSTNR.com.

The SBS Board and Executive have welcomed the appointment of Dr Nicholas Pappas AM as a Non-executive Director of the SBS Board, following the announcement today by the Minister for Communications, The Hon Michelle Rowland MP.  Dr Pappas fills the vacancy on the SBS Board arising following the departure of Peeyush Gupta AM, who concluded his second term in October 2024.

Dr Pappas is a Non-executive Director and Lawyer serving on a number of Boards, including as Chair of the South Sydney Rabbitohs and Bank of Sydney, as President of The Hellenic Initiative Australia, and as a non-Executive Director of the Steve Waugh Foundation. His previous roles include serving as former President and Board member of the Powerhouse Museum.

Dr Pappas AM joins the SBS Board of Directors which consists of Chair George Savvides AM, Deputy Chair Christine Zeitz, and Non-executive directors Vic Alhadeff OAM, Aaron Fa’Aoso, Andrew Lu AM, Katrina Rathie, Cassandra Wilkinson OAM, and SBS Managing Director, James Taylor.

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.

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.

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 31^st 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!

Perth’s 6PR ends the year strong as the No.1 news and talk station in the West, delivering notable audience growth across key weekday and weekend shifts in GfK Radio 360 Survey 8. The station recorded a share of 8.0 – up 0.6 points on the last survey.

6PR Breakfast with Steve Mills and Karl Langdon (5am – 10am) claimed its best survey result of the year with a share of 12.0% – up 1.8 points on last survey, securing its place as Perth’s No.1 talk show.

The Gary Adshead Show (10am – 2pm) posted a share of 7.2 (up 0.4 on last survey), and Perth Live with Oliver Peterson (2pm – 6pm) claimed 6.7 – up 0.8 compared to the last survey.

There was also impressive growth in streaming, with the station posting an overall share of 11.0 with TSL the strongest in market. 6PR Breakfast with Steve Mills and Karl Langdon recorded a 20.3 share and was the No.1 streamed Breakfast show in Perth.

Rick Lenarcic, National Direct Sales Manager, Nine Radio, said: “6PR has delivered a sensational end of year result, built around our strength in live and local information, entertainment and sport.

“Breakfast with Millsy and Karl continues to grow audiences and to claim the position as overall No.2 Breakfast show in Perth is a tremendous feat.
“2025 will be an exciting year for the station with the return of Simon Beaumont and our refreshed afternoon lineup including Oliver Peterson and Mark Readings. 6PR is poised for even more success.”

Further highlights of GfK Radio 360 Survey 8 in Perth are:

• Burgo on Sunday (12pm – 4pm) delivered the strongest streaming TSL for its timeslot (4:00)

• Wide World of Sports (6pm – 8pm) recorded a share of 4.2

• Overnights (12mn – 5am) recorded a share of 8.3 – up 1.9 share points on last survey

• Weekends (Sat-Sun 6am – 12pm) recorded a share of 8.5 – up 0.7 share points on last survey

• Weekends (Sun 6am – 12pm) No.1 in streaming with an overall share of 11.9

The ABC has finished 2024 as the unchallenged number 1 Digital Live Streaming network in Australia according to GfK survey 8 released today.

The ABC has held the title for every survey this year and since Survey 3 2023 when it became a standalone GfK measure.

The ABC has a 25.2% share of live streaming in the most recent survey with much of it coming from audiences on ABC listen.

Our ABC listen summer listening schedule is already underway with a huge season of cricket kicking off with the Australia v India test in Perth in November. The test drew 548,000 stream starts across all ABC platforms.

The ABC has every match from every major cricket code, all summer live and add free on ABC listen.

Elsewhere in GfK Survey 8, momentum is building for the triple j Hottest 100 which launched earlier this week. In the most recent survey, triple j was up across both share and reach driven by the 18-39 year olds.

Within 24 hours of voting opening on Tuesday, more than 200,000 votes had already been counted for the legendary summer countdown.

The countdown will be held on Saturday 25 January.

Audiences can head to the triple j website or the triple j app and follow the signs to the Hottest 100 voting page. Voting closes – 5pm AEDT, Monday 20 January.

ABC radio reaches 5,358,000** Australians every week across our local, national and digital audio output.

 

* Source: All figures based on GfK Survey 8 24hr data unless otherwise stated.

**Source: GfK 5 City; 24hrs; Mon-Fri. ABC inc. DAB+. 2024 ytd = s1-s8. Reach;  GfK Regional (Gold Coast, Newcastle and Canberra); 24hrs; Mon-Fri; ABC inc.DAB+. Survey 1-3. Reach; Xtra Insights. Reach; Markets surveyed in the last 3yrs as of 12/12/24.

1233 ABC Newcastle has announced its 2025 line-up, with Paul Culliver to present the Breakfast program, Paul Turton remaining in Mornings, Jenny Marchant moving to the Drive show and Scott Bevan continuing with Saturday Breakfast.

After co-presenting weekday Breakfast for six years Jenny Marchant said she was excited about making the switch to Drive, which airs 3:00pm-6:00pm on weekdays.

“I’m looking forward to spending afternoons talking through the news and issues that affect us in the Hunter and hearing from our listeners, who make this the best job I can imagine,” she said.

Paul Culliver said he loved the relationship he’s built with the ABC Newcastle audience over the past 14 months hosting the Drive show. In the new year he will be setting his alarm for his new Breakfast timeslot of 5:30am-9:00am weekdays.

“I hope listeners will continue to put their trust in me to present a Breakfast show they want to be a part of,” Culliver said.

“One of the best things about moving to Newcastle has been the ability to explore the region through our listeners and to learn why they love living here. I relish the discovery and surprise that happens during live radio – from hearing listeners’ silliest stories to providing a platform for the most important issues in the local community.”

Paul Turton, an ABC veteran for more than three decades, will continue to present the Morning program from 9:00-11:00am during the week.

Dan Cox will retain a strong presence in all programs, utilising his reporting background and deep audience connections.

Editor of 1233 ABC Radio Newcastle Lucia Hill said the station was looking forward to the fresh new year line-up.

“Our broadcast team does incredible work and these movements will capitalise on our team’s collective strength and unparalleled local knowledge,” she said.

“The changes will continue to grow our connection with the audience, deliver breaking stories and explore the concerns, issues and interests of the Newcastle community.”

The ABC has celebrated 12 months in the Triton Australian Podcast Ranker with record results for ABC NEWS titles.

In the latest rankings for November, released today, the ABC continued to hold the top spot in the news category with ABC News Top Stories, which placed at number three on the overall list and had 751,000 listeners across the month.

Four of the ABC’s podcasts covering news and current affairs achieved their highest listeners of the year: If You’re Listening (248k), The Party Room (103k), Not Stupid (95k), Global Roaming with Geraldine Doogue and Hamish Macdonald (81k).

PM climbed 27 places with Nightlife up 25 places and Hack was also up 15 spots in the November list.

For 12 months in a row the ABC has had more titles featured in the ranker than any other publisher. It has also held the No 3 publisher position in the ranker for the full year.

Across November the ABC had 2.727m monthly listeners, a 5.6% increase on the past six-month average. ABC podcasts accounted for 30 of the top 200, including four of the top 20.

This is in addition to the latest Ipsos Iris results which saw ABC NEWS again rank as Australia’s No 1 digital news brand with more than 11.7m Australians visiting across October.

“These results demonstrate the ABC’s key role in providing news, information and analysis for Australians across all platforms, however they want to access it,” said Director, News Justin Stevens.

The full Triton Australian Podcast Ranker can be found here.

Audiences can enjoy all ABC podcasts for free and ad free on ABC listen.

The Australian Podcast Ranker is a regular monthly snapshot of Australia’s most popular podcasts. The Ranker has been reporting podcast listening in Australia since 2019 and includes a wide cross section of Australian podcast publishers, from both radio and non-radio backgrounds.