Archives: Media Releases

9Podcasts has accelerated its growth in March, with the return of footy season driving strong listenership across its slate of premium sport podcasts including Six Tackles with Gus, The Billy Slater Podcast, Eddie and Jimmy, Real Footy, 3AW Football, the Continuous Call Team, Footy Classified, 100% Footy, and Freddy and the Eighth.

Six Tackles with Gus jumped a staggering 77 places in the Australian (Made) Top Podcast Ranker to land at number 93, with over 59,000 listeners, 93,000 downloads and 100,000 video views in March. And flagship AFL podcasts, Real Footy and 3AW Football returned with a bang, ranking at number 122 and 171, respectively.

Video is increasingly becoming the consumption pattern of choice for sports fans, with Eddie and Jimmy reaching a combined 56,000 downloads and video views, and the Billy Slater Podcast reaching a combined 67,000 downloads and video views in March – with more than half of the audience opting for video on 9Now and Youtube.

It’s not just footy exciting fans this year, as the Paris Olympic Games and Paralympic Games 2024 are fast approaching. To give listeners an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience of what it is like competing at the highest level on the world stage, The Road to Paris podcast launched in March. The 16-part podcast series features candid conversations with some of our greatest Olympians and Paralympians including Anna Meares, Kieran Perkins, Ellie Cole, Curtis McGrath, Andrew Gaze, and Ariarne Titmus as they discuss their own trials and triumphs, glory and heartache – all in the pursuit of Olympic excellence.

The sporting action doesn’t stop there, with Hamish McLachlan and Ross Stevenson delivering the very best in horse racing news, insight and banter each week in Two Each Way and the Wide World of Sports Updates  keeping listeners informed with a daily roundup of need-to-know sporting news.

MARCH 2024	DOWNLOADS	LISTENERS
Nine Sport Podcasts	585,024	252,516
Nine Podcast Network	3,319,812	1,259,684

Nine’s Head of Podcasts and Digital Content, Mia Stern said: “As we begin the countdown to the Olympic and Paralympic Games and the football season gains momentum, so does our connection with the hearts of fans. With each episode, we delve deeper into the drama, the triumphs, and the narratives that define Australian’s passion for sport.

“It’s clear our comprehensive sports content is cutting through with audiences, providing an unparalleled opportunity for advertisers to join the conversation. Brands that align themselves with our passionate listeners tap into a captive audience, where the authenticity of the message merges seamlessly with the passion for the game.”

Source: Australian Podcast Ranker – Top Podcasts Australian Made, March 1-31 2024, Downloads, Listeners. 

For further information, please contact:
Caitlin Lynch 
Senior Communications Manager, Nine 
clynch@nine.com.au

Wednesday, April 24, 2024

Last night, WAtoday welcomed local dignitaries, industry stakeholders and political leaders to a special event at the State Buildings in the city, revealing the masthead’s refreshed brand identity. Adding vigour to an innovative and expansive editorial offering, WAtoday will build on its reputation to provide West Australians with the latest independent news and public interest journalism.  

With Perth the fastest-growing capital city in Australia – and more than 2.9 million people now calling WA home – the masthead will increase its investment in local content that appeals to growing diverse audiences, cementing its platform as the go-to source for breaking news, analysis, entertainment and more. 

Together with its local team of award-winning journalists and editorial contributions from its stablemates The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age and Brisbane Times, WAtoday will work closely with 9News Perth to provide a superior online news service backed by exceptional resources.

WAtoday’s Daile Cross, who worked at the masthead when it launched in 2008 and is now at the helm as Editor, will continue to lead the publication in this exciting new phase, which will include the removal of its paywall for WA content.

“The time is right to unveil a new WAtoday, and unlocking the local paywall will ensure greater reach and a better connection to community, allowing readers premium access to our slate of independent news and analysis, without bias or an agenda,” Cross said.

“We will launch new content, including a new Perth news live blog which will run each weekday, and provide more hyper-local content that will entertain, educate and inspire the people of Perth to better know and understand – and above all be proud of – their exceptional city.

“Also, we’ll be launching a special Lunch With series hosted by respected business journalist Jesinta Burton, who will be up close and personal with some of our state’s top leaders and personalities, warmly conveying their stories through unique candid insight like never before.”  

9News Perth Director of News, Gareth Parker, will assist with local news integration, saying: “It makes sense to come together, and by supporting each other with Nine’s quality news resources, we’ve set a new benchmark when it comes to delivering trusted local news and information for a changing, progressive city.”

Luke McIlveen, Executive Editor of WAtoday, The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age and Brisbane Times, said: “WAtoday has always upheld its commitment to independent journalism in a market where quality news is so highly sought after. This new chapter will see WAtoday service its growing audience with hyper-local news and state issues, as well as utilising the Walkley Award-winning journalism of its sister mastheads to ensure West Australians receive the world class journalism they deserve.” 

Nine Perth Managing Director, Clive Bingwa, said: “Nine Perth remains committed to delivering audiences quality and trusted news whether it be via our local television, digital or radio assets.

“The investment in WAtoday driven by Daile’s editorial direction will give readers a better alternative source of online news, and together with the support of Gareth and his 9News team will ensure readers are better informed every day, with stories that make a meaningful difference to their lives.”

WAtoday.com.au

WAtoday Reveals New Era at Perth’s State Buildings: GALLERY 

For further information, please contact:
Peter Brennan
Program, Marketing & Communications Manager
pebrennan@nine.com.au

Adrian Motte
Senior Communications Manager – Trade & Publishing 
amotte@nine.com.au 

Wednesday, April 24, 2024

3.00PM DRAGONS V ROOSTERS, 7.30PM STORM V RABBITOHS
LIVE AND FREE ON CHANNEL 9HD AND TO STREAM ON 9NOW

NRL on Nine’s ANZAC Day extravaganza is ready to roll with two huge games on a special day for the nation, live and free this Thursday on Channel 9HD and 9Now.

There are four games of footy live and free this weekend on the 9Network, headed up by the ANZAC Day double with the Dragons v Roosters clash at Allianz Stadium from 3.00pm, followed by Storm v Rabbitohs at 7.30pm.

With their backline boosted by the return of speedster Dom Young alongside a battle hardened forward pack featuring enforcer Victor Radley, the Roosters are chasing a bounceback win, while the Dragons, who are resurgent under new coach Shane Flanagan, go on the hunt for points via the scorching speed of fullback Tyrell Sloan and the aerial threat of Zac Lomax.

Host James Bracey will be joined by rugby league experts Andrew Johns, Phil Gould, Cameron Smith, Brad Fittler, Johnathan Thurston and Billy Slater, along with Danika Mason providing sideline updates.

A famous rivalry born out of the 1970s features on Friday Night Footy when the Manly Sea Eagles meet the Parramatta Eels at 4 Pines Park on Sydney’s Northern Beaches.  

Star Sea Eagles backs Tom Trbojevic, Daly Cherry-Evans and Luke Brooks will be ready to pile on the points in front of their raucous home crowd.

The NRL Sunday Footy Show will dissect the round so far from 11.00am before the wounded Raiders meet Nicho Hynes and the high-flying Sharks in Sunday Arvo Footy from 3.00pm.

Phil Gould’s ANZAC Day preview

NRL on Nine expert commentator, Phil Gould said: “ANZAC Day is the most important day on the Australian calendar. It’s a day to stop, reflect and give thanks to all who served this country in conflicts around the world, to protect our freedom and allow us to enjoy the country and the lifestyle we have today.” 

“The traditional ANZAC Day match between the Sydney Roosters and St. George-Illawarra Dragons, is my favourite club game of the year. Rugby league has become a part of this National day of thanks and celebration, honouring our service men and women. 

“The respective clubs and players involved, always see this as a privilege to be a part of the day, and their performances never disappoint. The importance and excitement of the occasion motivates all participants. 

“With both teams presently in great form, this year’s clash promises to carry on that tradition with an action-packed and drama-filled affair. Enjoy your ANZAC Day football.” 

BROADCAST SCHEDULE

Thursday, April 25

THE ANZAC DAY DOUBLE – ST GEORGE ILLAWARRA DRAGONS v SYDNEY ROOSTERS

THE ANZAC DAY DOUBLE – MELBOURNE STORM v SOUTH SYDEY RABBITOHS

Friday April 26

FRIDAY NIGHT FOOTY – MANLY SEA EAGLES v PARRAMATTA EELS

Sunday, April 28

WIDE WORLD OF SPORTS – on Channel 9 and 9Now. Roz Kelly, Mark Taylor and Gus Worland.

THE SUNDAY FOOTY SHOW from 11.00am with Billy Slater, Andrew Johns, Brad Fittler and Danika Mason.

HOSTPLUS QLD CUP – from 2.10pm. Townsville Blackhawks v Redcliffe Dolphins

SUNDAY ARVO FOOTY – CANBERRA RAIDERS v CRONULLA SHARKS

Monday, April 29

100% FOOTY – STREAM LIVE ON 9NOW AT 7.30pm
9.45pm on Channel 9HD in Sydney/Brisbane.

Phil Gould and Paul Gallen go head to head after the eighth round of the season with host James Bracey. All the latest scoops come from 9News reporter Michael Chammas.

ANZAC DAY FOOTY ON THE 9NETWORK
FROM THURSDAY, APRIL 25, AT 3.00PM
LIVE AND FREE ON 9NOW AND CHANNEL 9HD

Tuesday, April 23, 2024

9News Queensland will continue its solemn tradition of paying tribute to ANZAC Day by broadcasting Brisbane’s annual Dawn Service live from the sacred grounds of the Shrine of Remembrance in ANZAC Square, this Thursday on Channel 9 and 9Now.

For more than a decade, 9News Queensland has stood in solidarity with the community at ANZAC Square, and once again news presenter Andrew Lofthouse will lead the coverage. The service will commence at 4.28am, precisely mirroring the time of the historic landing at Gallipoli in 1915, and will continue until the first light at dawn breaks.

Among the attendees will be official guests, dignitaries, a veterans’ contingent and a catafalque party, along with members of the public, all gathering to pay homage to the sacrifices made by our ANZAC heroes.

Following the Dawn Service, 9News Queensland will transition into the network’s national coverage of ANZAC commemorations, capturing the spirit of remembrance across the country and around the world. Andrew Lofthouse will then bring Queenslanders the latest news at 6.00pm, broadcasting live from ANZAC Square.

On April 25, turn to Channel 9 and 9Now for special coverage by 9News Queensland and 9News, as we unite to honour and remember the eternal significance of ANZAC Day.

LIKE 9News Queensland on FACEBOOK

FOLLOW 9News Queensland on TWITTER and INSTAGRAM

For further information, please contact:
Lucy Charles
Publicity Assistant, Nine Queensland
lucy.charles@nine.com.au

Monday, April 22, 2024

The home of strongest opinions from those who count, 100% Footy, will be available live in the timeslot of 7.30pm on free streaming platform 9Now from this Monday, April 22.

In a win for footy mad fans, the earlier time slot of 7.30pm Monday will be in place for the rest of the 2024 NRL season.

With Phil Gould and Paul Gallen squaring off every week on the biggest news items straight after a huge weekend of footy, there’s no better place to find real opinions and the background on developing and current stories.

Host James Bracey and journalists Danny Weidler and Michael Chammas, will deliver all the latest breaking NRL news and opinion done the way that footy fans deserve.

The show will remain in its regular time slot on Channel 9.

100% FOOTY 
FROM MONDAY, APRIL 22, AT 7.30PM AEST
STREAM LIVE AND FREE ON 9NOW 

Monday, April 22, 2024

Viewers can now enjoy unlimited access to world-class journalism as 60 Minutes Australia debuts its 24/7 channel on 9Now.

From unearthing timeless stories about significant world events to exposing the misconduct of public figures, 60 Minutes Australia 24/7 offers an extensive library of heart-pounding investigations and thought-provoking interviews, which showcase the program’s never-ending commitment to producing the very best television reporting.

As Australia’s leading current affairs program and a long-cherished Sunday night tradition, 60 Minutes is now complemented by its 24/7 channel on 9Now. It cements 60 Minutes as the nation’s go-to destination for news beyond the headlines, anytime.

Led by distinguished journalists including Liz Hayes, Tara Brown, Nick McKenzie, Amelia Adams, Dimity Clancey, and Adam Hegarty, this award-winning program has shaped perspectives and sparked conversations since it was first broadcast on the 9Network in February 1979. 60 Minutes Australia 24/7 enables viewers to delve into the program’s rich history of compelling stories, featuring both past and present reporters who have contributed to the show’s impressive legacy.  

Kirsty Thomson, Executive Producer of 60 Minutes, said: “Our commitment to delivering Australia’s finest journalism remains unwavering. With the launch of 60 Minutes Australia 24/7, viewers now have the opportunity to access our investigations whenever they want, reaffirming the enduring relevance and impact of our reporting.”

“This marks a significant milestone for 60 Minutes, highlighting the everlasting connection it maintains with its audience.”

Experience 60 Minutes Australia 24/7 now on 9Now.

LIKE 60 Minutes Australia on Facebook 
FOLLOW @60Mins on Twitter 
FOLLOW @60Minutes9 on Instagram 
FOLLOW @60Minutes9 on TikTok 
Get more 60 Minutes on 9Now 

For further information, please contact:
Claudine Blondeau
Communications Manager, Nine Queensland
cblondeau@nine.com.au

Friday, April 19, 2024

Pedestrian Group has announced Spyros Asteriou has been promoted to Head of Partnerships, NSW to lead the company’s sales team in Sydney, with Tess Lastra joining the organisation to lead the sales team based in Melbourne.

Spyros Asteriou is a respected commercial operator who has been with Pedestrian Group for over six years and has been fundamental to the growth of the business. He previously held the title of Head of Agency Partnerships, NSW and prior to joining Pedestrian Group, was with JCDecaux. Spyros is known for his exceptional leadership within the industry, with a strong history of leading high performing teams that create incredibly effective and award winning brand campaigns.

Tess Lastra joins Pedestrian Group with extensive experience in the Victorian media landscape, over a decade-plus career with leading Australian media organisations. Having a record of success in sales and leadership positions at News Corp, Australian Radio Network, JCDecaux, and most recently at the OOH start-up Wrappr, Tess brings a wealth of industry knowledge and insights to her new role. She is eager to energise the market about Pedestrian Group’s vast influence on young Australians.

Pedestrian Group’s Chief Commercial Officer, Rachel Tikey said, “As Pedestrian Group’s universe continues its evolution, I am delighted to appoint Spyros and Tess to these pivotal leadership roles. There are no two better leaders to mobilise our market-specific sales teams with Pedestrian Group’s vast offering. Both Spy and Tess epitomise excellence in our industry, have layered media sales experience, and extensive networks that trust and respect them. I know they will take the Pedestrian Group brands into their next era of commercial greatness.”

The senior sales appointments come as PEDESTRIAN TELEVISION on 9Now continues to surge in growth from 2 million minutes a month at launch, to a projected 16 million this April*.

*About Pedestrian Group*
Pedestrian Group is Australia’s leading youth-centred publisher, reaching a unique audience of more than 3.9 million Aussies** per month and clocking 645M views across all sites and socials in 2023*** – with more 18 to 39-year-olds than any other publisher. It is home to PEDESTRIAN.TV, The Chainsaw, VICE Australia, Refinery29 Australia, Lifehacker Australia, Gizmodo Australia, Kotaku Australia and PEDESTRIAN TELEVISION, as well as the Open Air Cinemas. It is wholly owned by Nine, Australia’s largest media company.

*Pedestrian Television OzTAM viewership
**IPSOS 2024
***Meta, Tiktok, Pinterest, Youtube & Google Analytics, Jan 1-Dec 31 2023 

For further information, please contact:
Caitlin Lynch
Senior Communications Manager, Nine
clynch@nine.com.au 

Thursday, April 18, 2024

Melbourne radio listeners have once again made 3AW the city’s undisputed market leading radio station.

The release of GfK Survey 2 results today show that 3AW has a winning audience share of 13.8.

Every week, a staggering 721,000 residents of Melbourne engage with 3AW’s captivating blend of live and locally-focused talk radio.

3AW has also maintained its indisputable dominance in live audio streaming, capturing more than a quarter of the commercial streaming audience.

Ross and Russ continue their reign as Melbourne’s favourite breakfast program, recording  an impressive 18.6 – 7.8 points ahead of their nearest competition. The dynamic duo also drew a massive 47% share of the commercial streaming audience, showcasing their immense popularity and influence in the digital realm.

In his second survey in the Mornings slot, Tom Elliott was an overwhelming No. 1 with a share of 16.7 (9.9 points ahead of his Mornings talk competitor) and a commercial streaming share of 28.2.

Tony Moclair is the No.1 Afternoon talk program with a share of 11.6 (up 0.7 points on Survey 1) and a market-leading commercial streaming share of 24.2.

Jacqui Felgate is Melbourne’s No. 1 Drive talk program, with a 7.4 share. Week after week, her show captivates an audience of 294,000, drawn to her insightful perspectives and agenda-setting news coverage.

Denis Walter continues his supremacy as Melbourne’s top-rated Evening program, with a share of 20.5 – more than double his nearest competition. 

Stephen Beers, 3AW Station Manager, said: “A very pleasing survey 2 for 3AW, a dominant number one again led by Ross Stevenson and Russel Howcroft in Breakfast. Right across the day and all across the week listeners are continuing to rely on 3AW for trusted news and entertainment. We look forward to 3AW Football and later in the year the Olympics to continue 3AW as Melbourne’s favourite radio destination.”

Source: GfK Radio360 Ratings, 3AW Melbourne Survey 2 2024, Mon-Sun 5.30am-12MN, Mon-Fri 5.30am-8.30am, Mon-Fri 8.30am-12pm, Mon-Fri 12pm-3pm, Mon-Fri 3pm-6pm, Mon-Thurs 8pm-12MN & Fri 7pm-12MN, Weekends 5.30am-12MN, Cume (000s), Market Share % Total Radio, Streaming share %, Commercial Share AP10+ , unless otherwise specified. 

For further information, please contact:
Terry Stuart
Senior Communications Manager
tstuart@nine.com.au

Thursday, April 18, 2023

Brisbane’s 4BC maintains its momentum into 2024, driven by its dedication to engaging live and local programming, resulting in a notable surge in audience engagement and achieving an overall share of 7.0 (up 0.5) in the Gfk Radio 360 Survey 2.

Breakfast with Laurel, Gary and Mark has held on to the healthy gains from Survey 1 to record a share of 7.5. 

Bill McDonald’s Mornings show has achieved further growth with an impressive share of 9.4 (up 0.7), solidifying the strength of 4BC’s live and local lineup.

The positive trend extends into the Afternoons, with Sofie Formica posting a share of 5.9 (up 0.5), before transitioning into Peter Gleeson’s Drive show, up 0.5 to a 4.5 share.

Acting 4BC Content Manager, Holly Green, said: “We’re delighted with the fantastic start to 2024 and the outstanding results across our live and local programming. These achievements truly reflect the hard work and dedication of our entire team, and we’re deeply grateful to our loyal listeners for their ongoing support and enthusiasm for 4BC.

“With such a promising beginning, we eagerly anticipate continued growth and success throughout 2024. Thank you to all our listeners for embracing what we do here at 4BC.”

4BC’s lineup, featuring Breakfast with Laurel, Gary, and Mark, Mornings with Bill McDonald, Afternoons with Sofie Formica, Drive with Peter Gleeson, Wide World of Sport with Peter Psaltis, and Weekends with Peter Fegan, offers Brisbane the only live and local programming on weekdays from 5.30am to 7.00pm, underscoring the audiences’ appreciation for this unique content.

Source: GfK Radio360 Ratings, 4BC Brisbane Survey 2 2024, Mon-Fri 5.30am-9am, Mon-Fri 9am-12pm, Mon-Fri 12pm-3pm, Mon-Fri 3pm-6pm, Mon-Fri 6pm-7pm, Market Share % Total Radio, Streaming share % AP10+

For further information, please contact:
Claudine Blondeau
Communications Manager, Nine Queensland
cblondeau@nine.com.au

Thursday, April 18, 2023

Sydney’s 2GB is the city’s undisputed No.1 in radio and commercial streaming, posting a dominant share of 11.9 and 30.5, respectively, in today’s Gfk Radio360 Survey 2. 

Ben Fordham Live is No.1 in Breakfast Talk, with a share of 14.9, while in commercial streaming 2GB Breakfast posted an incredible 36.9 share, reinforcing the power of live and local content across all devices. 

Ray Hadley is celebrating an outstanding 156th consecutive survey win as No.1 in Mornings, with a radio share of 13.5, and 34.2 in commercial streaming (up 0.9).  

2GB Content Manager, Luke Davis, said: “Recent events in Sydney have demonstrated how important talk radio is to the fabric of our city. In the big moments and unfolding news events, listeners turn to 2GB, knowing they will get up-to-date and accurate information.

“Today, Sydneysiders have once again declared 2GB as their number one radio station. Our team remains grateful for our listeners and takes great pride in serving them each and every day.”

Further highlights of Gfk Radio360 Survey 2 in Sydney: 

• Afternoons with Michael McLaren recorded a share of 9.0 (Mon-Fri 12pm-3pm)
• Drive with Chris O’Keefe recorded a share of 7.3 (Mon-Fri 3pm-6pm)
• Nights with John Stanley remains the clear No.1 with share of 25.5 (more than double his nearest competitor) (Mon-Fri 8pm-12am)
• Weekends with Luke Grant posted an overall share of 13.0 (up 1.4) (Sat-Sun 9am-1pm)

Source: GfK Radio360 Ratings, 2GB Sydney Survey 2 2024, Mon-Fri 5.30am-9am, Mon-Fri 9am-12pm, Mon-Fri 12pm-3pm, Mon-Fri 3pm-6pm, Mon-Thur 8pm-12MN, Sat-Sun 9am-1pm, Market Share % Total Radio, Streaming share % AP10+

For further information, please contact:
Caitlin Lynch
Senior Communications Manager, Nine
clynch@nine.com.au

Thursday, April 18, 2023