Archives: Media Releases

John Laws was a giant of Australian radio who leaves an indelible mark on this country’s media, social, music and political landscapes. He mastered the craft of radio like no other, encapsulating the “theatre of the mind”. He combined intellect, humour and the common touch to entertain millions of Australians right across the country, through decades of live radio.

He was the original influencer, and the first radio broadcaster to move stations and take his listeners with him, from 2UE to 2GB and back again. Other broadcasters benefited from his magnetism and many a sales rep and proprietor from his commercial success.  

Politicians wanted to win his favour, musicians wanted to win his endorsement, and the listeners just wanted to talk to him. 

If ever there was an example of Rudyard Kipling’s description of a man in If – it was John Laws. Indeed – he did walk with Kings, without losing the common touch. 

We extend our sincere condolences and gratitude to his children, grandchildren and many long serving loyal employees.

Statement from Tom Malone, Managing Director of Nine Radio.

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

Monday, 10 November, 2025

After two decades as Melbourne’s most loved weather presenter, Livinia Nixon has announced she will be signing off from her role on 9News Melbourne.

Livinia, who first joined the Nine Network in 1997 and has held the position of 9News Melbourne weather presenter since 2004, has made the decision to focus on her family as her sons enter their senior years of schooling.

Her last night presenting the weather will be Tuesday, 18 November.

While Livinia is shifting her focus to be more available for her family after school, she will remain a cherished member of the Nine family, continuing her presenting roles on Australia’s favourite travel shows, Getaway and Postcards.

Livinia Nixon said: “After 20 years presenting weather on 9News, I’ve decided to step back from this role. My sons will both be in high school and I want to be there to support them. It’s been a privilege to be welcomed into viewers’ homes for so long, but this is the right time for my family.

“Presenting the weather has shaped my life and career. I owe this role everything but this is the right decision for me. When I discussed it with our boys, they said “we’re pretty excited to spend more time with you, Mum.”

“I’m thrilled to be staying with Nine and will be continuing my roles on Getaway and Postcards. I am incredibly grateful to the 9News team and our loyal audience for their support over so many years.”

Hugh Nailon, Nine’s National News Director, said: “Livinia’s contribution to the Melbourne newsroom has been immeasurable. She has been a shining star on9News for two decades, delivering Melbourne’s weather with warmth, expertise and unmatched professionalism.

“We are all incredibly proud of her and wholeheartedly support her decision to put her family first. She is a true asset to the 9Network and we are delighted that she will remain with us on Getaway and Postcards.”

One of the most versatile and enduring personalities on Australian television, Livinia’s career with the 9Network began in 1997. In addition to her roles on 9News, Getaway and Postcards, she has worked on a long list of programs including Hey Hey It’s Saturday, Temptation, Today, Weekend Today, Carols by Candlelight, Things to Try Before You Die and Plucka’s Place.

A replacement for the 9News Melbourne weather role will be announced in due course.

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

Friday, 7 November, 2025

Brisbane’s 4BC has today announced its new breakfast duo, bringing together two of Queensland’s most familiar and beloved voices: Dean Miller and Sofie Formica.

Starting January 19, Brisbane mornings will get a fresh dose of energy, warmth, and local flavour as 4BC Breakfast with Dean & Sofie takes to the airwaves. Every weekday morning from 5:30 am to 9:00 am, the show will bring talkback listeners the perfect blend of humour, heart, headlines, and hometown truths.

Dean Miller is one of Queensland’s most familiar voices and faces, bringing decades of experience in radio, television, and digital storytelling to the 4BC Breakfast team.

A proud Brisbane local, Dean first made his mark as the long-time Breakfast Anchor at Triple M Brisbane, where he built a loyal following across the city. He’s also been a household name on Australian television, hosting lifestyle favourites such as Creek to Coast, Queensland Weekender, and The Great South East for more than 15 years.

“To be back on air in the city I love, with a station that’s part of Brisbane’s DNA, is a real privilege – and to do it with my mate of over 20 years? That’s a gift”, said Miller. 

“Brisbane’s always been home – it’s where I’ve raised my kids, built a life, and now I get to wake up with the city every morning. Sofie and I are both fiercely proud of this place. We want to bring a bit of joy, a bit of cheek, and a whole lot of Brisbane to your mornings.”

Formica says the move to Breakfast is exciting, adding: “After four years of hosting Afternoons on 4BC solo, I’m ready to take on a new challenge and thrilled to be sharing the studio with a friend. We know Brisbane breakfast radio is tough, but we are determined to deliver a show that is real and it’s Brisbane.”

Breakfast with Dean & Sofie will bring listeners the breaking news as it happens, unpack the stories that matter most to Brisbane, and balance it all with the warmth and wit of two locals who love their city and aren’t afraid to call it how they see it. 

On the new Breakfast lineup, 4BC Station Manager, Siobhain McDonnell said: “Dean and Sofie are the perfect duo to wake up to in Brisbane. This city is thriving, and our listeners are fiercely proud of their lifestyle. We want 4BC listeners to start their day with the latest news, the best conversation, and a smile on their face. Their 20-year friendship is infectious, and it’s time for Brisbane to be invited in.”

The duo’s chemistry stems from their contrasting styles and long-standing personal relationship. While Sofie brings the energy, fitness, and competitive edge, Dean brings the laughs, laid-back charm, and a knack for finding joy in the everyday.

“Sofie’s up at 5am doing yoga and green smoothies. I’m just trying to find my other sock. Somehow, it works. She’s the fit one, I’m the fun one. Together, we’re your perfectly balanced breakfast”, said Miller. 

“We’re not just broadcasting – we’re connecting. Whether you’re on the school run, heading to work, or just waking up, we want to be the friendly voice that starts your day right.”

Tune in to 4BC’s Breakfast with Dean & Sofie, weekdays from January 19, and start your day the Brisbane way.

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

Friday, 7 November, 2025

9Network announced its summer hosting lineup for Today, with a fresh mix of familiar faces set to wake up Australia while Karl Stefanovic and Sarah Abo take their break.

Kicking off the holiday season are Today Extra favourites David Campbell and Sylvia Jeffreys, before Samantha Armytage teams up with media personality Michael “Wippa” Wipfli from mid-December.

As the calendar ticks over to 2026, the show will be led by a trusted lineup of network journalists and reporters, including Alison Piotrowski, Dr Nick Coatsworth, Joel Dry and Jayne Azzopardi.

Weekends will feature a rotating roster of hosts throughout summer, including Lara Vella, Michael Atkinson, Dan Anstey and Lizzie Pearl.

Karl Stefanovic and Sarah Abo return to the desk on Monday, January 19, 2026, just in time to serve up all the news and excitement of the 2026 Australian Open. During the tournament, Today will broadcast an extended edition from 5:30am to 10:00am daily, live from Melbourne Park.

Joining Karl and Sarah in 2026 will be Jayne Azzopardi on News, Danika Mason on sport, Richard Wilkins and Renee Bargh with entertainment and Tim Davies on weather.

Today Extra, hosted by Sylvia Jeffreys and David Campbell, will air its final episode for 2025 at the end of November and will return in late January during the closing stages of the Australian Open.

For further information, please contact:
Alex Dyer
9Network Publicity
alex.dyer@nine.com.au

Wednesday, 5 November, 2025

Nine’s live and free coverage of the 2025 Melbourne Cup was a massive ratings success, with Australians tuning in across the 9Network in huge numbers to witness history being made at Flemington.

‘The race that stops a nation’ captivated the country, with the MELBOURNE CUP – RACE segment drawing a National Total TV Reach of 2.316 million. The Total TV National Audience for the race itself was 2.079 million, a significant 8.8% increase year-on-year.

Viewing on 9Now saw explosive growth, with the race attracting a BVOD Audience of 463,000, a massive 24.8% surge compared to the previous year, as viewers streamed the event live and free.

Audiences tuned in to watch jockey Jamie Melham’s historic victory aboard the Australian-bred horse, Half Yours, in front of an energetic crowd of 84,374 at Flemington. Melham’s triumph makes her the first female jockey in history to complete the coveted Caulfield Cup-Melbourne Cup double, and only the second woman ever to win the Melbourne Cup, 10 years on from Michelle Payne’s famous victory.

The strong results continued across the entire day’s broadcast. The MELBOURNE CUP – PRESENTATION saw its Total TV National Audience jump 13.1% year-on-year to 1.793 million, with a 9Now audience of 325,000 (up 34.9% YoY).

The MELBOURNE CUP – LATE program grew 15.4% YoY (945,000 Total TV Audience) and saw a huge 52.8% jump on 9Now. The MELBOURNE CUP – PREVIEW was also up 5.8% YoY (892,000 Total TV Audience) with its 9Now audience growing by 39%.

The comprehensive day-long coverage also posted impressive numbers for the MELBOURNE CUP – MOUNTING YARD (1.996m Reach / 1.494m Total TV Audience) and MELBOURNE CUP – EARLY (1.644m Reach / 546,000 Total TV Audience) segments.

Brent Williams, Nine’s Director of Sport, said: “Yesterday’s results are a testament to the enduring power of the Melbourne Cup as one of Australia’s premier sporting and cultural moments. We are thrilled to see such significant audience growth, particularly the huge numbers on 9Now, which proves our Total TV strategy is delivering for viewers.

“Our world-class broadcast team captured the magic of the day perfectly and we are proud to have brought Jamie Melham’s historic, race-winning ride to all of Australia, live and free. It was an unforgettable day and these numbers confirm that Australians agree.”

Source: OzTAM © 2023, VOZ Data 5.0 Total TV, Broadcast TV, BVOD (Live+VOD), Audience = Overnight (What Watched), Reach (When Watched), FTA & Commercial Shares (When Watched) Content and Share reporting = National (incl. Spill), Metro and Regional market levels (excl. Spill)

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

Wednesday, 5 November, 2025

9Network‘s talent had smiles mixed with styles at 2025 Lexus Melbourne Cup Day at Flemington racecourse, today – Tuesday, November 4. 

Trackside at the Nine marquee is Karl Stefanovic, Sarah Abo,Danika Mason and Jayne Azzopardi (Today), Ally Langdon (A Current Affair), Sam Armytage (The Golden Bachelor), Jelena Dokic (Grand Slam Tennis), Steven Bradbury (Winter Olympics on Nine), Tom Steinfort and Alicia Loxley (9News Melbourne), Evelyn and Duncan (MAFS) Dan Reilly (The Block), Sylvia Jeffreys (Today Extra), Emma Verran (NRLW/State of Origin & Olympic Rugby Sevens Gold medallist), Ruan Sims and Allana Ferguson (NRL on Nine), Bear (The Golden Bachelor), Clint Stanaway (Weekend Today), amongst a stellar cast of 9Network talent. 

Lexus Melbourne Cup Day is the second of four huge days of live and free coverage of the 2025 Melbourne Cup Carnival available on Channel 9 and 9Now. 

DOWNLOAD 9NETWORK MELBOURNE CUP DAY IMAGES HERE

For further information, please contact:
Ryley McKay
Nine National PR Manager – Sport

Tuesday, 4 November, 2025

Get your sunnies out…it’s going to be a hot Spanish summer! As viewers fall in love with season seven of Love Island Australia, sponsors are experiencing why it’s one of the hottest shows in the world for brands connecting with hard-to-reach younger audiences.

With Love Island Australia premiering on 9Now last Monday at 6pm before screening on Channel 9 later that night, the series continues to carve out an enviable 16-39 demographic viewership to deliver a full funnel solution for brands.

This year’s launch episode of Love Island Australia (which screened last Monday, October 27) has recorded a whopping Total TV Audience audience of 658,000, up 18% Year on Year, and is the highest rating launch episode on 9Now in franchise history. The first four episodes on 9Now have reached over 1M Australians, with nearly 60% of the audience under 40. So far, season 7 on 9Now is up a massive 65% Year on Year.

As the sexy singles flirt up a storm and try to resist temptation and wicked sins in the Mallorcan villa, Love Island Australia continues to attract new brands that can leverage a globally-renowned format while maximising opportunities for their products to reach audiences in a safe, contextual environment. 

Joining season seven for the first time will be Subway and Specsavers. 

Subway’s first sponsorship of Love Island Australia will feature integration including a Subway Pool Party, where the Islanders will play Spin the Sub. Subway is also sponsoring the annual Love Island Men’s Pageant – Mr Sublime! – while Sophie Monk is lending her voice to their TVCs running through TX timing.   

Specsavers’ Contact Lenses will be seen throughout the Villa and the brand is also sponsoring a “I Can See Clearly Now” optometry-themed challenge. 

Also signing on as sponsors are Besa & NEFT, with Besa mi vino the wine seltzer and NEFT Vodka cocktails available to the Islanders as they enjoy their steamy party nights by the villa pool.   

To keep the singles looking their hottest, Rimmel and LYNX return for their second seasons. Rimmel products will be displayed in the Girls’ Glam Room, while throughout the series, they will have Get Ready Cam moments where the girls show how they use Rimmel products. 

This year, LYNX has taken its in-show presence to the next level. In addition to its signature spot on the boys’ bedroom dresser, the brand now plays a more dynamic role—featuring in-show before a date and a challenge to ensure the boys are at the top of their fragrance game.

Nine’s Director of Content Partnerships and Client Experience, Sarah Stewart, said: “Love Island Australia continues to offer brands a unique BVOD first opportunity that consistently delivers a hard-to-reach audience via a cast of strong influencers who seamlessly integrate brands within the series and extend the show’s impact across social media.”

Love Island Australia 2025, again narrated by Eoghan McDermott, is produced by ITV Studios Australia for the 9Network.

Love Island Australia is available for streaming on 9Now, dropping at 6pm AEDT every Monday to Thursday.

Source: TVMAP VOZ Program Analyser, OzTAM VOZ Data 5.9, National, Nine Only, 27/10/2025 – 2/11/2025 v 28/10/2024 – 3/11/2024,Total People & People 0-39,Total TV, When Watched. 

For further information, please contact:
Adrian Motte
Senior Communications Manager – Trade & Publishing
amotte@nine.com.au

Tuesday, 4 November, 2025

It’s a case of being dressed to the nines at Howden Victoria Derby for the 9Network‘s talent, with the 2025 Melbourne Cup Carnival officially underway at Flemington racecourse, today – Saturday, November 1. 

Trackside at the Nine marquee is Karl Stefanovic and Sarah Abo (Today Show), Rodger Corser (The Floor), Sam Armytage (The Golden Bachelor), Ariarne Titmus (Swimming), Sylvia Jeffreys (Today Extra), Ryan Papenhuyzen (NRL), Jaime Chapman (NRLW/State of Origin), Richard Wilkins, Clint Stanaway and Alison Piotrowski (Weekend Today), plus Tom Steinfort and Alicia Loxley (9News Melbourne) amongst a stellar line up of 9Network talent. 

Howden Victoria Derby Day is the first of four huge days of live and free coverage of the 2025 Melbourne Cup Carnival available on Channel 9 and 9Now. 

For further information, please contact:
Ryley McKay
Nine National PR Manager – Sport

Saturday, 1 November, 2025

The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age’s Good Weekend magazine will celebrate the best short break locations Australia has to offer in its annual 52 Weekends Away special issue, out this Saturday, November 1. 

The 35^th annual edition, which runs at 56 pages, features inspirational short break ideas with reviews of accommodation from luxury adults-only to family friendly.  

With many Australians now reaching the end of a long year, 52 Weekends Away is the perfect guide to plan a summer holiday and 2026 mini-breaks. 

This year’s carefully curated selection, compiled in collaboration with the team at stablemate Traveller, features new or revamped properties around Australia.

The short break has changed markedly over the three decades since Good Weekend published its  first 52 Weekends Away issue on November 17, 1990. With an expanding list of chic city hotels that have an emphasis on resort style living, and an ever-growing list of sophisticated getaways a short drive from metropolitan centres, Australians have never had so much choice to enjoy a domestic break. 

Good Weekend editor Melissa Stevens said:  “A weekend away is an Aussie institution – and Good Weekend’s 52 Weekends Away aims to give options for mini-breaks to suit all budgets and itineraries. Whether you are after a city-based stay to catch up on a show or check out some new restaurants or want to get off-the-beaten track to decompress and disconnect, you will be sure to find something that fits the bill.

“This year’s issue features a collection of short break ideas designed to provide plenty of inspiration for those looking for a circuit breaker from the hectic pace of life.”

Good Weekend 52 Weekends Away edition will be available in this Saturday’s edition of The  Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, and online at www.traveller.com.au

For further information, please contact:
Adrian Motte
Senior Communications Manager – Trade & Publishing 
amotte@nine.com.au

Friday, 31 October, 2025

Nine is set to shine at the 2025 Melbourne Cup Carnival with the unveiling of their majestic marquee at Flemington Racecourse’s renowned birdcage today, ahead of four huge days of live and free coverage.

Nine’s post-race interviewer Billy Slater was front and centre on horseback for the reveal, ahead of his second year in the saddle aboard his trusted horse Sam. Alongside him, the 9Network host team of Eddie McGuire, James Bracey, and Francesca Cumani provided guests with the first look inside, detailing the design of the marquee which stands as a living expression of Nine; a space where Nine’s stories and spirit take physical form.

Bringing the comforts of home to life that feel distinctly Nine, Nicole Slater’s two striking pieces titled Alyssa and Light, from her Stables Collection, depict a celebration of the beauty and spirit of horses, while both levels display several sculptural elements that are a subtle nod to the brand’s iconic logo.

Led by Ed&EdStudio, the design celebrates collaboration and creativity. Partnering with international florist Chloe Szukilojc of CSStudio, the team crafted a series of elegant floral vignettes that embody both sophistication and a sense of lived-in luxury, a reflection of Nine’s unique balance between authenticity and aspiration.

Nine’s marquee boasts a premium viewing lounge, where guests can take in the spectacular views of the Melbourne Cup Carnival. 

Nine will host guests across the carnival from its vast programming slate that includes The Block, The Golden Bachelor, The Olympics, NRL/NRLW and State of Origin, Today, The Floor, 9News, Australian Open Tennis and Footy Classified (AFL) amongst many others within the 9Network.

As the official broadcast partner, the 2025 Melbourne Cup Carnival gets underway with Howden Victoria Derby Day on Saturday, November 1 at 11:30am AEDT, ahead of Lexus Melbourne Cup Day on Tuesday, November 4, live and free on Channel 9 and 9Now.

Host Eddie McGuire will bring all the latest updates from Nine’s expert studio, while in the mounting yard James Bracey will chat to all the biggest names, while international horse racing expert Francesca Cumani, delivers her last-minute observations.

Expert tips on the field will come from David Gately and Ally Mosley, while Tony Jones will get up close with all the action, speaking to trainers, owners, jockeys and special guests.

All the glitz, glamour and exclusive celebrity access from within the Birdcage will come to life with Clint Stanaway, Sylvia Jeffreys and Jelena Dokic. While in the commentary box Matthew Hill will call the 165th running of the Lexus Melbourne Cup.

Today, Weekend Today and 9News Melbourne, will broadcast live from Melbourne’s Southbank Promenade and Flemington when Karl Stefanovic, Sarah Abo, Danika Mason, Alicia Loxley, Tom Steinfort, Clint Stanaway, Alison Piotrowski and Lizzie Pearl, will bring their personal insights to Cup week and tell the stories happening behind the scenes.

DOWNLOAD IMAGES FROM NINE’S 2025 MARQUEE LAUNCH HERE

For further information, please contact:
Ryley McKay
Nine National PR Manager – Sport 
ryley.mckay@nine.com.au

Thursday, 30 October, 2025