Andrew Daddo exits ABC 702

Andrew Daddo presented his final evening program on ABC 702 last night and has opted to leave Aunty. It is believed Andrew is moving to Channel 9 as part of their forthcoming afternoon program, This Afternoon.
The hot tip to take over 702's evening program is Mark Trevorrow. Mark impressed management and listeners when he took over the program during summer. Other potential repalcements include Julian Morrow, Angela Catterns and Jennifer Byrne.

Entries for 2009 New Artists 2 Radio now open

The search for new and emerging Australian music talent is on again with entries now open for the New Artists 2 Radio (NA2R) event. Now in its eighth year, the commercial radio initiative aims to discover the next big music star to be played on radio throughout the country. The event is open to unsigned Australian artists who have not charted in the top 100 Australian National airplay chart.

Nine finalists will be selected with three winners announced – one each from the following genres: rock, pop and adult contemporary. The three winners will go on to perform at the NA2R showcase event to be held in Sydney this year on October 9th in front of key music and program directors from the commercial radio sector.

Health shock for Vic Davies

Some shocking news that former Club Veg member Vic Davies is battling lung cancer. Vic went to hospital with suspected pneumonia earlier this year and that is when doctors discovered the cancer.
Vic Davies and Mal Lees began Club Veg on Triple J in 1984, taking the show to 2SM in 1986 before heading to Triple M two years later in 1988.

Cranberry Chicken Blues

When afternoon presenter Denis Walter was away a couple of weeks ago 3AW's Mark Holden, Darren James and Russell Gilbert got together on the regular Friday lunch segment on the station. The trio graced listeners with a little ditty called Cranberry Chicken Blues. Don't think it is going to race up the charts - however here it is if you want to have a listen.

Rumours of Doug Mulray's death greatly exaggerated

RUMOURS of his impending death swept Sydney and even reached a holidaying Doug Mulray in Greece on Monday night when his old mate Reg Prasad rang him to see if he was still alive.

The reclusive and now retired former anarchic Triple M breakfast radio king was in fact having a fine old time, but was upset about a rumour - source unknown - that he'd had a major heart attack. Full article Daily Telegraph

Hughesy and that twit!

Twitter, 2009's new avenue to air dirty linen has certainly swept the world by storm. Nova 100's Dave Hughes traded barbs with 2day fm breakfast head Kyle Sandilands when the two went head to head on Twitter. The insults starting flying yesterday when Sandilands took a shot at Rove McManus, Hughes' friend and co-star on Channel Ten. Read an axtract of what went on.

Time tunnel: Keith Glover Radio Australia

This is Keith Glover's final mailbag program originally broadcast on Radio Australia on Dec 28,1980.

Judge for yourself

Perth based ABC radio football commentator Ken Judge has landed himself in hot water after a flippant remark about fellow commentator John Dorotich's waistline. While joking about the size of their waistlines Judge made the remark -"You are bigger than Hitler's last gas bill,"

The former AFL coach was calling last nights West Coast and Collingwood game when the remark went to air on ABC stations across the country. It is believed that ABC switchboards were jammed last night with irate listeners wanting to voice their complaints.

Kath Letch exits Triple R

Manager of 3RRR, Kath Letch, will leave next week after 14years at the station. Kath, will be replaced by Dave Houchin who is currently general manager of Perth community station RTRFM. Dave is over the moon that he is heading home to Melbourne and equally thrilled that he will be managing the station he grew up listening to.

Brisbane joins digital radio switch on

CRA release: Commercial radio stations in Brisbane 4BC, 4BH, 4KQ, Triple M, b105, 97.3 FM, Nova, Radio TAB, Radar, Pink Radio and NovaNation join commercial stations in Perth, Adelaide and Melbourne on Monday, 25 May 2009 when they begin broadcasting DAB+ digital radio for the first time.

Joan Warner, chief executive officer of Commercial Radio Australia the industry body that has driven the move to digital radio on behalf of both the commercial and public broadcasters said Brisbane radio listeners have been keen to sample digital radio.

Community radio stations may get a lifeline

The Bendigo Advertiser reports: Steve Gibbons hopes Bendigo’s community radio stations will be able to retain their identity.
The Australian Communications and Media Authority proposed last August that Fresh FM, Phoenix FM and Central Victorian Gospel Radio share the 101.5 frequency used by Gospel Radio.
It proposed making the 89.5 frequency, used by the other two stations, available for ABC News Radio.

Still calling it as he sees it

IN 1997, Triple M's first AFL commentary team, with Eddie McGuire and Brian Taylor as anchors, was given a simple brief: call it as you see it. "We felt like we were starting a revolution in radio calling," Taylor says. McGuire has moved on but 12 years later Taylor is, according to a poll of AFL fans, the top-rated caller on radio. He is also a key figure on pay TV's Fox Sports. Broadcast as well as televised, the Taylor revolution rolls on. full article The Age

APN News & Media in trading halt

Radio and newspaper group APN News & Media has gone into a trading halt pending an announcement about capital management initiatives. APN are joint owners of The Australian Radio Networks which includes capital city Classic Hits and Mix brands.
"APN wishes the trading halt to last from today until commencement of normal trading on Thursday, 21 May 2009 unless APN requests the trading halt to be lifted before that time," the company said. APN's statement to the Australian stock exchange on Tuesday followed news that its Irish-based key stakeholder, Independent News & Media, had been granted a grace period by its creditors.

Mark Collier to take up radio teaching post

THE Australian Film Television and Radio School has appointed Mark Collier as its new director of radio, replacing Steve Ahern who has opted to move into consultancy. Mark Collier is currently in South-East Asia training media in developing countries and is set to take up the new AFTRS role in July. Collier was News Director, Programme Director, General Manager and then Managing Director at 2UE before moving to the ABC. It was whilst he was News Director at 2UE that he gave a taxi driver named Ray (Hadley) his start in Sydney radio after Hadley picked up a fare (Collier) from the station one evening in the early 1980's.

Talk radio still holding its own against FM

After Nielsen Media admitted to weak sampling which under-represented younger demographics in the first two radio ratings surveys, FM stations were expected to surge in the third. It didn't pan out as expected, and a number of talk stations continue to dominate. The Australian Media section takes a look at the mainland capital cities in regards to what people are listening to. Article here

Vale Charles Bud Tingwell

Australia is mourning the death of veteran actor Charles Bud Tingwell who passed away today at the age of 86. The star of radio, stage, television and screen lost a dignified battle with cancer in a Melbourne hospital.

Always upbeat, he was still working from his hospital bed up until a few days ago and it was in that hospital bed that he listened (audio) to Marty Fields paying tribute to him on a 3AW segment earlier this week. Bud loved radio and was an avid talkback listener, however radio and Bud have a much richer history than a lovely old man with his ear tuned to his transistor.

Bud got his start in radio and we need to thank his father for that, as this piece from his blog says: Looking back, I suppose the cinema, or the 'pictures', as we probably called it, was very, very important to us, or to me. I loved the magic of what movies could do. I loved film and radio. Dad said, "Look, why don't you apply for this job?" "Cadet announcer / panel operator wanted for leading Sydney commercial radio station, 2CH." So I applied and they offered me the job, making me the youngest radio announcer in Australia.

So as you can see, radio is where it all started for Bud, drop by his blog and pay tribute to the man that brought joy and entertainment to generations of Australians. Bud's Blog here

Prime job for Rob

Rob Gamble has been appointed to the newly created role of chief executive for radio and digital media with the Prime Media Group. He has been chief executive of Prime Radio since 2007.

Adelaide digital radio coverage set to be best in Australia

Commercial radio stations in Adelaide SAFM, FIVE AA, Nova 91.9, Triple M, Mix 102.3, Cruise 1323, Radar, Pink Radio, NovaNation and Koffee add to Adelaide’s rich radio history on Monday, 18 May 2009 when they begin broadcasting for the first time in DAB+ digital radio.

Digital Radio Channel Plans (DRCPs) released by the Australian Communication and Media Authority (ACMA) show Adelaide has one of the highest levels of coverage from day one of the new technology – with well over 90% of the Adelaide population able to access digital radio.

Phil signs off but vows he will be back

Philip Clark has been dumped from 2GB evenings, signing off his program maintaining to his audience he will still pop up on air at the station from time to time. The former drive and breakfast host presented his final program this evening with well-wishers from many of the talkback callers. Philip Clark joined 2GB from 2BL in 2001 initially to present breakfast however he switched to the drive program the following year.

2009 Federal Budget Bitter-Sweet for ABC

Friends of the ABC (Vic) have released the following press release in relation to the Federal budget. “The turnaround in government appreciation of the ABC is heartening," said Glenys Stradijot, a spokesperson for Friends of the ABC (Vic).

“But from the ABC's low base, the increase in funding delivered to the national broadcaster is disappointing.

“It does not meet the Government's pre-election promise to Friends of the ABC to ensure the ABC is "fully funded".

Rex avoids jail

3AW's Rex Hunt avoided jail today but was placed on a 12-month community-based order after his stoush with a cyclist. The colourful radio personality and former VFL footballer was found guilty on Friday of recklessly causing injury. He was today sentenced to perform 100 hours unpaid community work, without conviction.

Digital radio revolution suffers from confusion

After years of lobbying, planning and persuading, digital radio is due to land in Brisbane in just 12 days.The technology offers more stations, clearer sound, scrolling text so you don't miss a song title, pictures broadcast to accompany songs, and even the ability to pause and rewind live broadcasts.But after all the effort spent introducing digital radio, experts are asking the question: will anybody hear it? Full article CourierMail

Nielsen radio ratings survey 3

Brisbane: NOVA 106.9 has held on to top spot with 13.9% despite a slight dip of 0.4. Austereo owned B105 came in at number 2 with a rise of 0.7 and a rating of 12.4% followed by 97.3fm in third place with 10.0% up 0.5. Adelaide: ABC 891 are enjoying their 2nd successive number one ratings victory (13.4% down 0.6). Fiveaa with 12.8% has just beaten MIX 102.3 who romped home with 12.6%. Sister stations SAFM, 11.8%, and 5MMM, 11.5%, are neck and neck with only 0.3 between them.

SEN sacks Grant Thomas

AFL commentator Grant Thomas, has been sacked by radio station 1116 SEN. The former St Kilda coach was told today by station boss, Barry Quick, that his contract had been terminated because of financial reasons. It's believed, however, Thomas' constant ridiculing of umpires and the AFL was a concern to league officials who have voiced those concerns to 1116 SEN management.

Train cretin rings Nova 100

The youth at the centre of Melbourne's train surfing incident has defended his actions while speaking to the Nova 100 breakfast team. This morning he told Hughesy and Kate that it was not the first time he had risked his life on a moving train, saying "if you hold on, you can't fall off"'. 1. Audio talking to Hughesy and Kate 2. Age article

Prince eyes the crown

The balance of power at 2GB has shifted from Alan Jones to Ray Hadley. Inside Sydney's most successful station, talk is rife that, in terms of influence, a changing of the guard has taken place from Alan Jones to Ray Hadley. As the top-rating breakfast host struggles to recover after several debilitating bouts of cancer, the question of succession has become critical. Jones has already shed his share options and is preparing to reduce further his hours on air. No one is rushing with unseemly haste to plan his replacement but his voice within the station is not as strong as it once was. Full story SMH

The wait is over for Melbourne

Last week Perth took those first small steps to welcome digital radio broadcasting. MIX, GOLD, SEN, 3AW, 3MP, FOX, MAGIC, TRIPLE M, NOVA, VEGA, Sport 927, Radar, Pink Radio, Koffee and NovaNation create radio history on Monday, 11 May 2009 when they begin broadcasting the first permanent DAB+ digital radio services on the east coast of Australia.

Joan Warner, chief executive officer of Commercial Radio Australia the industry body that has driven the move to digital radio said Monday was another milestone for the industry in Australia following the switch on of DAB+ digital radio in Perth last week.

Showprep one stop shop

Showprep.fm has launched its brand new service and website. The idea is to build a worldwide network for radio people – at any level – and bring them together to network – share ideas – have fun and get inspiration.

Showprep.fm is a completely free service and is already in talks with various companies to partner up to provide free imaging and much more in the future for registered users.

Time tunnel:5AA "Radio That Still Talks To You" Commercial 1991

From the early 1990's Adelaide's 5AA.

Rex Hunt found guilty of recklessly causing injury to cyclist

Rex Hunt has been found guilty of recklessly causing injury after a stoush with a cyclist. However, the 3AW footy caller was cleared of the more severe charges of recklessly causing serious injury and intentionally causing injury. A charge of unlawful assault was an alternative to the other charges, so was not ruled upon at Melbourne Magistrates' Court this afternoon. Related report The Age

Child abuse awareness campaign wins best radio ad of the year

CRA release: A controversial advertisement for Adults Surviving Child Abuse (ASCA), written by Steve Dodds from agency, Whybin TBWA in Sydney, has won the 2009 Gold Siren award for best radio ad of the year, as well as a Silver Siren for winner of the single advertisement category. Another ad, part of the ASCA campaign, has also won a Silver Siren as winner of the craft category at today’s announcement in Sydney of the 2009 Siren Award winners.

Kyle hires security guard after death threats

Reading the headlines one could be forgiven for thinking 2DAY fm presenter Kyle Sandilands has hired a security guard for protection from Nova radio rivals following an on air feud this week or from fellow Australian Idol judge Ian 'Dicko' Dickson who after walking off the Idol set this week he said "I headed straight for Albert Park and hit golf balls and pretended Kyle (Sandilands') face was on them," However the threats are of a more serious nature and security industry insiders say Sandilands' six-bedroom Woolwich home now has a 24-hour guard and security devices are being installed in case of a possible attack. Related article here

Ewan joins Breeze

Ewan 'Jay' Dixon has joined Breeze FM and will be heard on air soon.

2GB 'dead men walking'?

It's Sydney's No. 1 radio station but staff at the already morale-depleted 2GB are feeling worse after their boss's attempt to pep them up spectacularly backfired. Instead of allaying fears that three presenters could lose their jobs, acting CEO and Macquarie Radio Network chairman Russell Tate made them feel like "dead men walking" in an email to staff after a newspaper report suggested evening host Philip Clark, night host Brian Wilshire and mid-dawner David Oldfield faced the axe. Telegraph article

Take40 clocks up 25 years

This year, Take40 celebrates its 25th anniversary. It's one of the biggest syndicated radio programs in Australia, reaching an estimated 1.5million listeners across 100 stations. The Age Green Guide talks to host Andrew G about Take40 and how this show inspired his career in radio. Article here

Dave inspires Barney to make a return

Vega 91.5 breakfast presenter Dave O'Neil recently went on the hunt for the humble 'Peters Barney Banana' only to find that Nestle had deleted the once popular ice confection back in 2003. Dave was not prepared to shrug his shoulders so he decided to turn to people power to get Nestle to bring the product back. In a week, his campaign generated in excess of 3,000 signatures pleading for the return of Barney Banana. Nestle sat up and took notice and the end result is that Barney will be back on sale soon. No truth in the rumour that Dave is now gearing up a campaign to bring back 'Orange Frosties', 'Wink' and 'Two in One'. Related article FoodWeek

Time tunnel: That classic Triple M ad

This probably remains the most popular Triple M TVC of all time.

Andre the hairdresser

This morning on Sydney's Vega 95.3 Andre Rieu revealed to the world that he cuts his own hair and he enjoys doing so. Andre was special guest at the Vega Mother’s Day breakfast hosted by Tony, Bec & Mikey. Five lucky listeners and their mums were spoilt in the ‘Vega ballroom’ where they got to meet Andre! Listen to audio

Holden in for Walter

At 3AW Mark Holden is filling in for afternoon presenter Denis Walter this week. Mark also filled in for Denis last Friday at short notice owing to a family tragedy.

Semi Pro Radio competition

Austereo network Triple M is doing something special by giving the best creative and advertising minds from across the nation the chance to present their own radio show. It revolves around a competition called Semi Pro Radio which is open to people from the Australian ad industry. A number of finalist will be asked to put together pilot radio programs which will then be aired on Triple M on selected Sunday nights. Up for grabs is a $5,000 cash prize and a $30,000 Triple M airtime package. Think you have what it takes to put two hours of unique radio together? Semi Pro Radio

Radio presenter's son pleads guilty to rape

The son of former Radio 3AW night-time presenter Reverend Alex Kenworthy has pleaded guilty to a series of serious sex offences, including four counts of aggravated rape.

Phillip Alexander Kenworthy, 44, whose father died in 1994, attacked at knifepoint three Surrey Hills women in 1982 and 1985. Full article

Airwaves torn up by Imbruglia

Forget AC/DC and Jimmy Barnes - Natalie Imbruglia rules Australia's airwaves. The pop singer's hit Torn is the most played song on Australian radio, spun more than 300,500 times since its 1998 release, an average of 75 times a day.

It tops a list of the 20 most-played songs on Australian radio since 1990, based on data compiled by the Australian Performing Rights Association (APRA). Guitarist Carlos Santana's hit 1999 duet with Matchbox 20's Rob Thomas, Smooth, came in at number two with 275,196 plays. Read the entire article

Ian Craig set to retire

Veteran racecaller Ian Craig has announced he will retire on June 21. Craig, who is the principal caller for Sky Channel and Sydney radio station 2KY, will broadcast his last races at the Gosford meeting on June 21.

City Sights: 1940s radio transcription

On the eve of the launch of digital radio we find it fitting to highlight a long lost piece of radio history, rescued from the tip. It features 3XY's Tom Jones talking to students from MacRobertson's Girls High School in the 1940's. As radio moves to the next phase we feel it is important to remember where it has come from.

Radio news feed, Sunday 3 May 2009

Radio Personality Shoots Dog, Bullet Hits Wife
From radio.about.com. Posted May 2 2009, 7.53am
People in Radio are nuts. Florida is nuts. Put them both together and you get something like this: 43-year-old radio personality, Shannon Burke shot at his dog and hit his... (more)

Perth makes radio history

Commercial radio stations in Perth - Mix 94.5, 92.9, Nova 93.7, 6PR, 96 fm, 6ix, Radar, Pink Radio and Novanation create radio history on Monday, 4 May 2009 when they begin broadcasting the first permanent DAB+ digital radio services in Australia.

Joan Warner, chief executive officer of Commercial Radio Australia the industry body that has driven the move to digital radio said Monday was a milestone for the industry in Australia and is the biggest innovation in radio since the introduction of FM in the 1970’s.

Matty and Renee TV pilot

Gold Coast Sea FM duo Matty and Renee have filmed a pilot TV version of their The Hit List radio program. Matty Acton and Renee Peterson were at Warner Bros Movie World on the Gold Coast yesterday and hoped that the translation from radio to TV proved to be as successful as their networked Sea FM program. The Hit List With Matty And Renee airs weeknights on Gold Coast Sea FM and nationally via various other MRRG stations.

Digital Radio Production Standards

Commercial Radio Australia (CRA) announced that today significant progress has been made on the finalisation of innovative technical and advertising production specifications for the synchronisation of “visual” and audio components of DAB+ digital radio.

Andrew Daddo exits ABC 702

Friday, May 29, 2009 | 0 comments »

Andrew Daddo presented his final evening program on ABC 702 last night and has opted to leave Aunty. It is believed Andrew is moving to Channel 9 as part of their forthcoming afternoon program, This Afternoon.
The hot tip to take over 702's evening program is Mark Trevorrow. Mark impressed management and listeners when he took over the program during summer. Other potential repalcements include Julian Morrow, Angela Catterns and Jennifer Byrne.

Entries for 2009 New Artists 2 Radio now open

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The search for new and emerging Australian music talent is on again with entries now open for the New Artists 2 Radio (NA2R) event. Now in its eighth year, the commercial radio initiative aims to discover the next big music star to be played on radio throughout the country. The event is open to unsigned Australian artists who have not charted in the top 100 Australian National airplay chart.

Nine finalists will be selected with three winners announced – one each from the following genres: rock, pop and adult contemporary. The three winners will go on to perform at the NA2R showcase event to be held in Sydney this year on October 9th in front of key music and program directors from the commercial radio sector.

Health shock for Vic Davies

Thursday, May 28, 2009 | 0 comments »

Some shocking news that former Club Veg member Vic Davies is battling lung cancer. Vic went to hospital with suspected pneumonia earlier this year and that is when doctors discovered the cancer.
Vic Davies and Mal Lees began Club Veg on Triple J in 1984, taking the show to 2SM in 1986 before heading to Triple M two years later in 1988.

Cranberry Chicken Blues

Wednesday, May 27, 2009 | 0 comments »

When afternoon presenter Denis Walter was away a couple of weeks ago 3AW's Mark Holden, Darren James and Russell Gilbert got together on the regular Friday lunch segment on the station. The trio graced listeners with a little ditty called Cranberry Chicken Blues. Don't think it is going to race up the charts - however here it is if you want to have a listen.

Rumours of Doug Mulray's death greatly exaggerated

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RUMOURS of his impending death swept Sydney and even reached a holidaying Doug Mulray in Greece on Monday night when his old mate Reg Prasad rang him to see if he was still alive.

The reclusive and now retired former anarchic Triple M breakfast radio king was in fact having a fine old time, but was upset about a rumour - source unknown - that he'd had a major heart attack. Full article Daily Telegraph

Hughesy and that twit!

Tuesday, May 26, 2009 | 0 comments »

Twitter, 2009's new avenue to air dirty linen has certainly swept the world by storm. Nova 100's Dave Hughes traded barbs with 2day fm breakfast head Kyle Sandilands when the two went head to head on Twitter. The insults starting flying yesterday when Sandilands took a shot at Rove McManus, Hughes' friend and co-star on Channel Ten. Read an axtract of what went on.

Time tunnel: Keith Glover Radio Australia

Monday, May 25, 2009 | 0 comments »

This is Keith Glover's final mailbag program originally broadcast on Radio Australia on Dec 28,1980.

Judge for yourself

Sunday, May 24, 2009 | 0 comments »

Perth based ABC radio football commentator Ken Judge has landed himself in hot water after a flippant remark about fellow commentator John Dorotich's waistline. While joking about the size of their waistlines Judge made the remark -"You are bigger than Hitler's last gas bill,"

The former AFL coach was calling last nights West Coast and Collingwood game when the remark went to air on ABC stations across the country. It is believed that ABC switchboards were jammed last night with irate listeners wanting to voice their complaints.

Kath Letch exits Triple R

Friday, May 22, 2009 | 0 comments »

Manager of 3RRR, Kath Letch, will leave next week after 14years at the station. Kath, will be replaced by Dave Houchin who is currently general manager of Perth community station RTRFM. Dave is over the moon that he is heading home to Melbourne and equally thrilled that he will be managing the station he grew up listening to.

Brisbane joins digital radio switch on

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CRA release: Commercial radio stations in Brisbane 4BC, 4BH, 4KQ, Triple M, b105, 97.3 FM, Nova, Radio TAB, Radar, Pink Radio and NovaNation join commercial stations in Perth, Adelaide and Melbourne on Monday, 25 May 2009 when they begin broadcasting DAB+ digital radio for the first time.

Joan Warner, chief executive officer of Commercial Radio Australia the industry body that has driven the move to digital radio on behalf of both the commercial and public broadcasters said Brisbane radio listeners have been keen to sample digital radio.

Community radio stations may get a lifeline

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The Bendigo Advertiser reports: Steve Gibbons hopes Bendigo’s community radio stations will be able to retain their identity.
The Australian Communications and Media Authority proposed last August that Fresh FM, Phoenix FM and Central Victorian Gospel Radio share the 101.5 frequency used by Gospel Radio.
It proposed making the 89.5 frequency, used by the other two stations, available for ABC News Radio.

Still calling it as he sees it

Thursday, May 21, 2009 | 0 comments »

IN 1997, Triple M's first AFL commentary team, with Eddie McGuire and Brian Taylor as anchors, was given a simple brief: call it as you see it. "We felt like we were starting a revolution in radio calling," Taylor says. McGuire has moved on but 12 years later Taylor is, according to a poll of AFL fans, the top-rated caller on radio. He is also a key figure on pay TV's Fox Sports. Broadcast as well as televised, the Taylor revolution rolls on. full article The Age

APN News & Media in trading halt

Tuesday, May 19, 2009 | 0 comments »

Radio and newspaper group APN News & Media has gone into a trading halt pending an announcement about capital management initiatives. APN are joint owners of The Australian Radio Networks which includes capital city Classic Hits and Mix brands.
"APN wishes the trading halt to last from today until commencement of normal trading on Thursday, 21 May 2009 unless APN requests the trading halt to be lifted before that time," the company said. APN's statement to the Australian stock exchange on Tuesday followed news that its Irish-based key stakeholder, Independent News & Media, had been granted a grace period by its creditors.

Mark Collier to take up radio teaching post

Monday, May 18, 2009 | 0 comments »

THE Australian Film Television and Radio School has appointed Mark Collier as its new director of radio, replacing Steve Ahern who has opted to move into consultancy. Mark Collier is currently in South-East Asia training media in developing countries and is set to take up the new AFTRS role in July. Collier was News Director, Programme Director, General Manager and then Managing Director at 2UE before moving to the ABC. It was whilst he was News Director at 2UE that he gave a taxi driver named Ray (Hadley) his start in Sydney radio after Hadley picked up a fare (Collier) from the station one evening in the early 1980's.

Talk radio still holding its own against FM

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After Nielsen Media admitted to weak sampling which under-represented younger demographics in the first two radio ratings surveys, FM stations were expected to surge in the third. It didn't pan out as expected, and a number of talk stations continue to dominate. The Australian Media section takes a look at the mainland capital cities in regards to what people are listening to. Article here

Vale Charles Bud Tingwell

Friday, May 15, 2009 | 0 comments »

Australia is mourning the death of veteran actor Charles Bud Tingwell who passed away today at the age of 86. The star of radio, stage, television and screen lost a dignified battle with cancer in a Melbourne hospital.

Always upbeat, he was still working from his hospital bed up until a few days ago and it was in that hospital bed that he listened (audio) to Marty Fields paying tribute to him on a 3AW segment earlier this week. Bud loved radio and was an avid talkback listener, however radio and Bud have a much richer history than a lovely old man with his ear tuned to his transistor.

Bud got his start in radio and we need to thank his father for that, as this piece from his blog says: Looking back, I suppose the cinema, or the 'pictures', as we probably called it, was very, very important to us, or to me. I loved the magic of what movies could do. I loved film and radio. Dad said, "Look, why don't you apply for this job?" "Cadet announcer / panel operator wanted for leading Sydney commercial radio station, 2CH." So I applied and they offered me the job, making me the youngest radio announcer in Australia.

So as you can see, radio is where it all started for Bud, drop by his blog and pay tribute to the man that brought joy and entertainment to generations of Australians. Bud's Blog here

Prime job for Rob

Thursday, May 14, 2009 | 0 comments »

Rob Gamble has been appointed to the newly created role of chief executive for radio and digital media with the Prime Media Group. He has been chief executive of Prime Radio since 2007.

Adelaide digital radio coverage set to be best in Australia

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Commercial radio stations in Adelaide SAFM, FIVE AA, Nova 91.9, Triple M, Mix 102.3, Cruise 1323, Radar, Pink Radio, NovaNation and Koffee add to Adelaide’s rich radio history on Monday, 18 May 2009 when they begin broadcasting for the first time in DAB+ digital radio.

Digital Radio Channel Plans (DRCPs) released by the Australian Communication and Media Authority (ACMA) show Adelaide has one of the highest levels of coverage from day one of the new technology – with well over 90% of the Adelaide population able to access digital radio.

Phil signs off but vows he will be back

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Philip Clark has been dumped from 2GB evenings, signing off his program maintaining to his audience he will still pop up on air at the station from time to time. The former drive and breakfast host presented his final program this evening with well-wishers from many of the talkback callers. Philip Clark joined 2GB from 2BL in 2001 initially to present breakfast however he switched to the drive program the following year.

2009 Federal Budget Bitter-Sweet for ABC

Wednesday, May 13, 2009 | 0 comments »

Friends of the ABC (Vic) have released the following press release in relation to the Federal budget. “The turnaround in government appreciation of the ABC is heartening," said Glenys Stradijot, a spokesperson for Friends of the ABC (Vic).

“But from the ABC's low base, the increase in funding delivered to the national broadcaster is disappointing.

“It does not meet the Government's pre-election promise to Friends of the ABC to ensure the ABC is "fully funded".

Rex avoids jail

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3AW's Rex Hunt avoided jail today but was placed on a 12-month community-based order after his stoush with a cyclist. The colourful radio personality and former VFL footballer was found guilty on Friday of recklessly causing injury. He was today sentenced to perform 100 hours unpaid community work, without conviction.

Digital radio revolution suffers from confusion

Tuesday, May 12, 2009 | 0 comments »

After years of lobbying, planning and persuading, digital radio is due to land in Brisbane in just 12 days.The technology offers more stations, clearer sound, scrolling text so you don't miss a song title, pictures broadcast to accompany songs, and even the ability to pause and rewind live broadcasts.But after all the effort spent introducing digital radio, experts are asking the question: will anybody hear it? Full article CourierMail

Nielsen radio ratings survey 3

Monday, May 11, 2009 | 0 comments »

Brisbane: NOVA 106.9 has held on to top spot with 13.9% despite a slight dip of 0.4. Austereo owned B105 came in at number 2 with a rise of 0.7 and a rating of 12.4% followed by 97.3fm in third place with 10.0% up 0.5. Adelaide: ABC 891 are enjoying their 2nd successive number one ratings victory (13.4% down 0.6). Fiveaa with 12.8% has just beaten MIX 102.3 who romped home with 12.6%. Sister stations SAFM, 11.8%, and 5MMM, 11.5%, are neck and neck with only 0.3 between them.

SEN sacks Grant Thomas

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AFL commentator Grant Thomas, has been sacked by radio station 1116 SEN. The former St Kilda coach was told today by station boss, Barry Quick, that his contract had been terminated because of financial reasons. It's believed, however, Thomas' constant ridiculing of umpires and the AFL was a concern to league officials who have voiced those concerns to 1116 SEN management.

Train cretin rings Nova 100

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The youth at the centre of Melbourne's train surfing incident has defended his actions while speaking to the Nova 100 breakfast team. This morning he told Hughesy and Kate that it was not the first time he had risked his life on a moving train, saying "if you hold on, you can't fall off"'. 1. Audio talking to Hughesy and Kate 2. Age article

Prince eyes the crown

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The balance of power at 2GB has shifted from Alan Jones to Ray Hadley. Inside Sydney's most successful station, talk is rife that, in terms of influence, a changing of the guard has taken place from Alan Jones to Ray Hadley. As the top-rating breakfast host struggles to recover after several debilitating bouts of cancer, the question of succession has become critical. Jones has already shed his share options and is preparing to reduce further his hours on air. No one is rushing with unseemly haste to plan his replacement but his voice within the station is not as strong as it once was. Full story SMH

The wait is over for Melbourne

Sunday, May 10, 2009 | 6 comments »

Last week Perth took those first small steps to welcome digital radio broadcasting. MIX, GOLD, SEN, 3AW, 3MP, FOX, MAGIC, TRIPLE M, NOVA, VEGA, Sport 927, Radar, Pink Radio, Koffee and NovaNation create radio history on Monday, 11 May 2009 when they begin broadcasting the first permanent DAB+ digital radio services on the east coast of Australia.

Joan Warner, chief executive officer of Commercial Radio Australia the industry body that has driven the move to digital radio said Monday was another milestone for the industry in Australia following the switch on of DAB+ digital radio in Perth last week.

Showprep one stop shop

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Showprep.fm has launched its brand new service and website. The idea is to build a worldwide network for radio people – at any level – and bring them together to network – share ideas – have fun and get inspiration.

Showprep.fm is a completely free service and is already in talks with various companies to partner up to provide free imaging and much more in the future for registered users.

Time tunnel:5AA "Radio That Still Talks To You" Commercial 1991

Saturday, May 9, 2009 | 0 comments »

From the early 1990's Adelaide's 5AA.

Rex Hunt found guilty of recklessly causing injury to cyclist

Friday, May 8, 2009 | 0 comments »

Rex Hunt has been found guilty of recklessly causing injury after a stoush with a cyclist. However, the 3AW footy caller was cleared of the more severe charges of recklessly causing serious injury and intentionally causing injury. A charge of unlawful assault was an alternative to the other charges, so was not ruled upon at Melbourne Magistrates' Court this afternoon. Related report The Age

Child abuse awareness campaign wins best radio ad of the year

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CRA release: A controversial advertisement for Adults Surviving Child Abuse (ASCA), written by Steve Dodds from agency, Whybin TBWA in Sydney, has won the 2009 Gold Siren award for best radio ad of the year, as well as a Silver Siren for winner of the single advertisement category. Another ad, part of the ASCA campaign, has also won a Silver Siren as winner of the craft category at today’s announcement in Sydney of the 2009 Siren Award winners.

Kyle hires security guard after death threats

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Reading the headlines one could be forgiven for thinking 2DAY fm presenter Kyle Sandilands has hired a security guard for protection from Nova radio rivals following an on air feud this week or from fellow Australian Idol judge Ian 'Dicko' Dickson who after walking off the Idol set this week he said "I headed straight for Albert Park and hit golf balls and pretended Kyle (Sandilands') face was on them," However the threats are of a more serious nature and security industry insiders say Sandilands' six-bedroom Woolwich home now has a 24-hour guard and security devices are being installed in case of a possible attack. Related article here

Ewan joins Breeze

Thursday, May 7, 2009 | 0 comments »

Ewan 'Jay' Dixon has joined Breeze FM and will be heard on air soon.

2GB 'dead men walking'?

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It's Sydney's No. 1 radio station but staff at the already morale-depleted 2GB are feeling worse after their boss's attempt to pep them up spectacularly backfired. Instead of allaying fears that three presenters could lose their jobs, acting CEO and Macquarie Radio Network chairman Russell Tate made them feel like "dead men walking" in an email to staff after a newspaper report suggested evening host Philip Clark, night host Brian Wilshire and mid-dawner David Oldfield faced the axe. Telegraph article

Take40 clocks up 25 years

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This year, Take40 celebrates its 25th anniversary. It's one of the biggest syndicated radio programs in Australia, reaching an estimated 1.5million listeners across 100 stations. The Age Green Guide talks to host Andrew G about Take40 and how this show inspired his career in radio. Article here

Dave inspires Barney to make a return

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Vega 91.5 breakfast presenter Dave O'Neil recently went on the hunt for the humble 'Peters Barney Banana' only to find that Nestle had deleted the once popular ice confection back in 2003. Dave was not prepared to shrug his shoulders so he decided to turn to people power to get Nestle to bring the product back. In a week, his campaign generated in excess of 3,000 signatures pleading for the return of Barney Banana. Nestle sat up and took notice and the end result is that Barney will be back on sale soon. No truth in the rumour that Dave is now gearing up a campaign to bring back 'Orange Frosties', 'Wink' and 'Two in One'. Related article FoodWeek

Time tunnel: That classic Triple M ad

Wednesday, May 6, 2009 | 0 comments »

This probably remains the most popular Triple M TVC of all time.

Andre the hairdresser

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This morning on Sydney's Vega 95.3 Andre Rieu revealed to the world that he cuts his own hair and he enjoys doing so. Andre was special guest at the Vega Mother’s Day breakfast hosted by Tony, Bec & Mikey. Five lucky listeners and their mums were spoilt in the ‘Vega ballroom’ where they got to meet Andre! Listen to audio

Holden in for Walter

Tuesday, May 5, 2009 | 0 comments »

At 3AW Mark Holden is filling in for afternoon presenter Denis Walter this week. Mark also filled in for Denis last Friday at short notice owing to a family tragedy.

Semi Pro Radio competition

Monday, May 4, 2009 | 0 comments »

Austereo network Triple M is doing something special by giving the best creative and advertising minds from across the nation the chance to present their own radio show. It revolves around a competition called Semi Pro Radio which is open to people from the Australian ad industry. A number of finalist will be asked to put together pilot radio programs which will then be aired on Triple M on selected Sunday nights. Up for grabs is a $5,000 cash prize and a $30,000 Triple M airtime package. Think you have what it takes to put two hours of unique radio together? Semi Pro Radio

Radio presenter's son pleads guilty to rape

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The son of former Radio 3AW night-time presenter Reverend Alex Kenworthy has pleaded guilty to a series of serious sex offences, including four counts of aggravated rape.

Phillip Alexander Kenworthy, 44, whose father died in 1994, attacked at knifepoint three Surrey Hills women in 1982 and 1985. Full article

Airwaves torn up by Imbruglia

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Forget AC/DC and Jimmy Barnes - Natalie Imbruglia rules Australia's airwaves. The pop singer's hit Torn is the most played song on Australian radio, spun more than 300,500 times since its 1998 release, an average of 75 times a day.

It tops a list of the 20 most-played songs on Australian radio since 1990, based on data compiled by the Australian Performing Rights Association (APRA). Guitarist Carlos Santana's hit 1999 duet with Matchbox 20's Rob Thomas, Smooth, came in at number two with 275,196 plays. Read the entire article

Ian Craig set to retire

Sunday, May 3, 2009 | 0 comments »

Veteran racecaller Ian Craig has announced he will retire on June 21. Craig, who is the principal caller for Sky Channel and Sydney radio station 2KY, will broadcast his last races at the Gosford meeting on June 21.

City Sights: 1940s radio transcription

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On the eve of the launch of digital radio we find it fitting to highlight a long lost piece of radio history, rescued from the tip. It features 3XY's Tom Jones talking to students from MacRobertson's Girls High School in the 1940's. As radio moves to the next phase we feel it is important to remember where it has come from.

Radio news feed, Sunday 3 May 2009

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Radio Personality Shoots Dog, Bullet Hits Wife
From radio.about.com. Posted May 2 2009, 7.53am
People in Radio are nuts. Florida is nuts. Put them both together and you get something like this: 43-year-old radio personality, Shannon Burke shot at his dog and hit his... (more)

Perth makes radio history

Saturday, May 2, 2009 | 0 comments »

Commercial radio stations in Perth - Mix 94.5, 92.9, Nova 93.7, 6PR, 96 fm, 6ix, Radar, Pink Radio and Novanation create radio history on Monday, 4 May 2009 when they begin broadcasting the first permanent DAB+ digital radio services in Australia.

Joan Warner, chief executive officer of Commercial Radio Australia the industry body that has driven the move to digital radio said Monday was a milestone for the industry in Australia and is the biggest innovation in radio since the introduction of FM in the 1970’s.

Matty and Renee TV pilot

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Gold Coast Sea FM duo Matty and Renee have filmed a pilot TV version of their The Hit List radio program. Matty Acton and Renee Peterson were at Warner Bros Movie World on the Gold Coast yesterday and hoped that the translation from radio to TV proved to be as successful as their networked Sea FM program. The Hit List With Matty And Renee airs weeknights on Gold Coast Sea FM and nationally via various other MRRG stations.

Digital Radio Production Standards

Friday, May 1, 2009 | 0 comments »

Commercial Radio Australia (CRA) announced that today significant progress has been made on the finalisation of innovative technical and advertising production specifications for the synchronisation of “visual” and audio components of DAB+ digital radio.