Archives: Media Releases

Nine today announced a significant expansion of its commitment to in-depth journalism with the official launch of a new, dedicated Longform Current Affairs and Investigations Unit.

The initiative will be spearheaded by one of Nine’s most accomplished producers, Kirsty Thomson, who steps into an expanded role as Head of the new unit, alongside her existing responsibilities as Executive Producer of the flagship program 60 Minutes.

The newly formed unit aims to provide a powerful platform for comprehensive storytelling, allowing Nine’s acclaimed news and current affairs teams across Australia to delve deeper into compelling national and international issues. This move formalises a highly successful trial period under Thomson’s leadership, which has already seen the creation of innovative content and a fresh approach to longform production.

Fiona Dear, Nine’s Director of News and Current Affairs, said: “This strategic investment in our news teams underscores our unwavering commitment to journalistic excellence and builds upon our clear strength in longer-form, more in-depth stories. 

“By leveraging the company’s unrivalled scale and diversity we can access ideas and content from our award-winning journalists across both 9News and Nine’s publishing mastheads and deliver it to our audiences across our streaming and broadcast platforms.”

“We recognised a clear need to provide a space where important stories can be explored with the depth and nuance they deserve. In today’s fast-paced news cycle, the ability to dedicate resources to longer, more investigative pieces is crucial. Under Kirsty’s leadership, this unit is poised to deliver impactful content that informs, engages and sets the agenda.”

A standout success from the unit’s trial phase is The Brief, a digital-first brand that has already produced 20 episodes. These have tackled some of the most significant global and domestic stories in recent months, including the Clare Nowland investigation, the mystery surrounding the death of Gene Hackman, Chinese warships in Australian waters, the devastating Los Angeles fires, Jailed in Japan – the Donna Nelson story, and extensive coverage of former US President Donald Trump.

Beyond The Brief, the unit has also produced ten one-hour documentaries and has fostered collaborations with Stan, The Sydney Morning Herald, and The Age on an additional four documentary projects, showcasing its versatility and reach. Several more programs are already in production.

Kirsty Thomson, Head of the new Longform Current Affairs and Investigations Unit, expressed her enthusiasm for the new venture:
“I’m incredibly excited to lead this new unit and build on the fantastic momentum we’ve already established. The opportunity to delve deeper into compelling narratives, uncover new perspectives, and collaborate with Nine’s exceptional talent nationwide is immense. We’re passionate about pushing creative boundaries and delivering high-quality, longform journalism that captures the stories shaping Australia and the world. This unit is about empowering our journalists and production teams to pursue those stories that demand more time and a different lens, ensuring we can bring the full picture to our audience.”

The genesis of the unit stemmed from the understanding that the constraints of daily news production can sometimes limit the scope of storytelling. This initiative is designed to ensure that compelling material and complex narratives receive the comprehensive treatment they warrant, reaching a wider audience on multiple platforms. Ideas for longform projects have already emerged from all corners of Nine’s News and Current Affairs division.

As part of Nine’s broader News Transformation project, there is also a focus on unlocking the network’s vast archives, making historical footage and resources more accessible to enrich future storytelling.

Fiona Dear added: “With the incredible skill set of our producers, camera operators, editors, and our proximity to the greatest news brands in the world, I believe the possibilities for expansion and ownership of the news longform space are enormous.”

The Longform Current Affairs and Investigations Unit is set to become a cornerstone of Nine’s news output, promising more groundbreaking investigations and compelling documentaries for Australian audiences.

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

Thursday, 5 June, 2025

Nine is significantly strengthening its international news gathering capabilities with the launch of a new, dedicated bureau in Washington D.C. This expansion will provide audiences with unparalleled access to the epicentre of American politics.

Positioned just 300 metres from the Oval Office, the 9News Washington D.C. Bureau will take viewers from the White House to their house, offering a front-row seat to one of the most significant periods in modern political history.

As the United States grapples with the aftermath of a deeply consequential election, alongside escalating global tensions and pivotal social and economic shifts, Nine’s presence in the capital will ensure Australians receive comprehensive, on-the-ground coverage of the decisions and events that increasingly shape our world.

The new Washington D.C. bureau will complement Nine’s long-established Los Angeles bureau, which has served as a hub for over forty years, attracting Australia’s most experienced and respected journalists. The US bureaus provide extensive coverage for 9News, 60 Minutes, A Current Affair, Today and all of Nine’s digital and social platforms.

Fiona Dear, Nine’s Director of News and Current Affairs, said: “This expansion takes our viewers to the doorstep of the White House and offers a front-row seat to the news and decision-making that is increasingly shaping our lives back home. We are committed to bringing Australians the most comprehensive and insightful coverage of global affairs.”

Nine is also thrilled to announce that accomplished journalist Lauren Tomasi will be the new Washington Correspondent. Tomasi is perfectly placed to lead this new venture.

During her time as a U.S. Correspondent based in Los Angeles, Tomasi has reported from the heart of major events, from the glamour of red carpets to the devastation of natural disasters, mass shootings and terror attacks. She has been a vital part of Nine’s acclaimed U.S. election coverage, reporting live from campaign rallies and pivotal courtroom moments across the country.

The 9News Washington D.C. Bureau is set to launch later this month.

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

Monday, 2 June, 2025

Mining magnate Gina Rinehart has topped the 2025 Financial Review Rich List for the sixth consecutive year, but her wealth has dropped $2 billion to $38.11 billion. 

Australia’s wealthiest 10 people control an impressive $202 billion, but this was down 9.2 per cent from $222 billion last year, mainly due to a tough year for iron ore miners like Rinehart. 

The wealth of Clive Palmer, No. 5 on the Rich List, and Nicola Forrest, No. 9,  also fell due to the lower price for iron ore. Despite these falls, mining remains the largest sector for wealth creation worth a collective $141.3 billion, followed by property, worth $125.8 billion.   

Property scion Harry Triguboff is No. 2 on the Rich List,worth an estimated $29.65 billion, up from $26.49 billion. The third wealthiest is Anthony Pratt & family with $25.85 billion, followed by Scott Farquhar in fourth with $21.42 and Clive Palmer in fifth worth $20.12 billion. Canva founders Melanie Perkins and Cliff Obrecht are ranked sixth with $14.14 billion    

Australia is now home to 161 billionaires, up from 150 in 2024. NSW has the biggest share of Rich Listers – 81 – followed by Victoria with 55. 

Overall, the rich are still getting richer, with this year’s list revealing the country’s 200 largest fortunes have collectively leapt 6.9 per cent. This year marks the 43rd Rich List, first published in the Business Review Weekly magazine in 1983 when the total worth of Australia’s wealthiest people was only $4.6 billion.

Marriage breakdowns have re-shaped the top Rich List rankings in 2025. Atlassian co-founder Mike Cannon-Brookes has dropped from the top 10 due to his separation from Annie Cannon-Brookes, while Andrew Forrest has fallen from Australia’s second-richest person in 2023 to 11th this year, overtaken by his wife Nicola, who is ranked ninth. 

Of 10 debutants on this year’s Rich List, only one is a woman – Margaret Dymond, the owner of engine oil manufacturer Penrite. But, female representation overall has increased slightly from 41 last year to 42 this year.

While researching this year’s wealthiest people, Rich List editor Yolanda Redrup uncovered the highest valued self made debutant in history – Stonepeak co-founder Michael Dorrell. The fund manager had stayed under the radar while quietly building a wealth pile of $13.9 billion, making him the seventh richest person in Australia. 

Based on The Australian Financial Review’s unrivalled database, the Rich List includes a record 16 billionaires in the elite “ten-digit club” – those with wealth exceeding $10 billion. Some Rich Listers have seen their wealth surge, including media, mining and construction baron Kerry Stokes (No.10) whose net worth increased by more than $1 billion year-on-year to $12.7 billion.

Rich List editor Yolanda Redrup said: “To qualify for the first Rich List in 1983, you needed a net worth of only $10 million. Today, the cut-off is a staggering $747 million. Making it onto the Rich List has never been harder, which makes the business achievements of this year’s 10 debutants even more impressive.

“But, they are far from overnight successes. It took the Dymond family 46-years to build oil and automotive products company Penrite into an industry behemoth and earn themselves a place in the top 200.  Likewise, brothers Shane and David Young have been building pet shop group Petspiration since 1991. Becoming a Rich Lister takes tenacity, hard work, and in many cases, patience.”

TOP 10 (worth a collective $202 billion) 

1. Gina Rinehart – $38.11 billion – Mining 
2. Harry Triguboff – $29.65 billion – Property 
3. Anthony Pratt & family – $25.85 billion – Manufacturing
4. Scott Farquhar – $21.42 billion – Technology 
5. Clive Palmer – $20.12 billion – Mining 
6. Melanie Perkins and Cliff Obrecht – $14.14 billion – Technology 
7. Michael Dorrell – $13.85 – Investment
8. Ivan Glasenberg – $13.3 billion – Mining 
9. Nicola Forrest – $12.83 billion – Mining
10. Kerry Stokes – $12.69 – Media 

STATE BY NUMBERS 

1. NSW – 81 Rich Listers 
2. VIC – 55 
3. QLD – 22 
4. WA – 18 
5. ACT – 1
6. NT – 1 
7. TAS – 1

The full Rich List will be available on www.afr.com and will appear in a special edition of The Australian Financial Review Magazine in this Friday’s Financial Review.

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

Thursday, 29 May, 2025

A second round of NSW-based applications is now open for FW’s groundbreaking job readiness program Jobs Academy. Thanks to funding from the NSW Government, hundreds of women across the state who are looking to re-enter the workforce can access this valuable support. 

Jobs Academy is a free, fully virtual program that equips women with the essential skills, networks and confidence required to thrive in an evolving job market. The program works directly with employers who are looking to fill critical skills and labour shortages and connects them with job seekers.

Helen McCabe, co-founder of Jobs Academy, said that, “Jobs Academy works because FW recognises women as experts in their own lives – and with their input – we’re providing the right balance of education, empowerment and connection to achieve real results”.

The NSW Government is particularly focused on supporting women who face intersecting barriers to securing employment and achieving career progression, including:

·   Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women

·   Women from culturally diverse backgrounds

·   Women with disability

·   Women living in regional, rural and remote areas

“Jobs Academy is helping to unlock the full potential of NSW’s skilled workforce, boosting women’s participation and securing their economic futures,” NSW Minister for Women, Jodie Harrison said.

Suzanne Gearing, a proud Butchulla and Gubbi Gubbi woman, is a previous program participant. Despite having a law degree and several years of public sector experience, Gearing says she struggled to return to work after a series of career and personal setbacks. 

She applied for jobs she was overqualified for but struggled in the interviews because she lacked confidence. “I just sat there. I thought I can’t keep going like this, but I don’t know what the answer is,” she said. 

“I could not have done it without [Jobs Academy’s] help. They were the ones who got me to that point where I could get back to the workforce,” Gearing said.

Another successful program participant is Willhameena Power, based in Charlestown NSW. She joined the free, online program to redefine her skills and overcome imposter syndrome.

“[FW Jobs Academy] really reaffirms for people that what they have is valuable because somebody else appreciates it… It gave me the option of seeing how relevant my skills still were, giving me contacts and opportunities to learn new things,” Power said.

This is the second of two Jobs Academy intakes supported by a $5.2 million grant from the NSW government. Nearly 75 percent of participants in the first intake are now actively looking for work or applying for further study, with 85 percent reporting they now feel well equipped to search for work.

Applications are open now. To apply or learn more about the year-long program, visit the Jobs Academy website: www.jobsacademy.futurewomen.com

About FW Jobs Academy 2025: 

· 85 per cent report they now feel well-equipped to search for work.

· More than 45% of members have progressed their employment pathway by commencing work, increasing their hours of work, starting a new business or commencing an upskilling, study or volunteering opportunity.

For further information, please contact:
Sally Spicer
FW Communications Director
sally@futurewomen.com

Wednesday, 28 May, 2025

The New South Wales Blues will go all out for a series clean sweep while the Queensland Maroons plan to crash their party in Ampol Women’s State of Origin Game III – Exclusive, Live and Free on Channel 9 and 9Now on Thursday, May 29 from 7.30pm AEST.

Converting Newcastle into Bluecastle for the night, the NSW Blues unchanged lineup from Origin II will run out onto a packed out McDonald Jones Stadium looking to end the series unbeaten.

Boasting a big name lineup, Origin II player of the match Olivia Kernick will feature alongside Blues backline stars Jaime Chapman, Isabelle Kelly, Jess Sergis and local girl Jesse Southwell, when they aim to terrorise the Maroons again.

After winning in Newcastle in 2024 and state pride on the line, the Maroons will be eager to get one back on the Blues at home with captain Ali Brigginshaw looking to pile on the points with NRLW stars Romy Teitzel, Julia Robinson and Tarryn Aiken.

Hosted by Emma Lawrence, commentary for Nine’s Wide World of Sports features women’s internationals Millie Elliott and Allana Ferguson, Origin legends Phil Gould and Darren Lockyer, sideline reporter Marlee Silva and match caller Peter Psaltis.

Before the action kicks off in Newcastle, NRLWRAP will preview Women’s Game III with host Emma Lawrence, NSW Blues legends Corban Baxter and Allana Ferguson, joined by Maroons superstars Tamika Upton and Tarryn Aiken, and social influencer Lavender Baj breaking down all the biggest talking points. Shown tonight Tuesday, May 27 following Freddy and the Eighth on Channel 9 or to stream anywhere, anytime on 9Now.

BROADCAST SCHEDULE:
Thursday, May 29

WOMEN’S STATE OF ORIGIN, GAME III – NEW SOUTH WALES v QUEENSLAND
Sydney          7.30pm on Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now
Brisbane        7.30pm on Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now
Melbourne     7.30pm on Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now        
Adelaide        7.00pm on 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now
Perth             5.30pm on 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now

WOMEN’S STATE OF ORIGIN GAME III
THURSDAY, MAY 29
EXCLUSIVE, LIVE AND FREE ON CHANNEL 9HD AND 9NOW

Tuesday, 27 May, 2025

Nine Podcasts is proud to announce the launch of The Ella Era, a fresh, fearless new podcast hosted by Ella Ding; known for her honest voice, evolving personal journey, and powerful connection with her audience.

After a whirlwind 12 months that brought major life changes and personal growth, Ella is stepping into her “best era” – and she’s inviting listeners to do the same.

Each week on The Ella Era, Ella opens up about the habits, mindsets and moments that have helped her grow – physically, mentally and spiritually. She’s also turning the spotlight on others navigating their own era of transformation – from entrepreneurs and creatives to wellness experts, cultural voices, and trendsetters across fashion, beauty, fitness and beyond.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Ella Ding to the Nine Podcasts family,” said Richard Stansbury, 9Podcasts Content Director. “The Ella Era cuts through the noise of wellness trends with something more powerful – real talk. Ella’s raw honesty and huge social following bring a bold new voice to the self-development space. Whether she’s talking to experts or sharing her own life lessons, this podcast is about meaningful progress, not just perfection.”

For Ella, the podcast is deeply personal:

“Words can’t describe how excited I am to be back in your ears. When the opportunity with Nine Podcasts came along, I knew it was my calling. I’ve always been curious about people, stories, trends, and the ever-evolving eras we find ourselves in. Whether it’s launching a fashion business, diving into unconventional health trends, or now I am navigating motherhood, I want to learn, grow, and bring you along for the ride.”

“Through this podcast, my goal is to inspire, educate, and spark conversations especially the ones people often shy away from. I’m not afraid to explore the raw, the real, and the sometimes uncomfortable topics that others might avoid. 

“No topic is off-limits, and no guest is too big or too unknown. If they’ve got a story, I want to hear it – and share it.”

THE ELLA ERA WITH ELLA DING LAUNCHES TODAY WITH NEW EPISODES DROPPING WEEKLY ON APPLE & SPOTIFY

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

Tuesday, 27 May, 2025

Tonight, Patrick Neasey lit up the spectacular arena of The Floor, defeating 80 rivals to be crowned Australia’s first-ever champion of the high-stakes quiz showdown and taking home a life-changing $200,000 prize.

From his first step onto the Instruments tile, the 33-year-old engineer played with calm precision, sharp brainpower and sheer nerve, navigating duel after duel in a relentless battle of knowledge, strategy and stamina.

The nail-biting grand finale saw Patrick, Amina and Monica battle it out in a thrilling showdown. After eliminating Monica during a tense Games Night battle, Patrick faced Amina in a gripping best-of-three duel. Amina hit back in round two, but Patrick held firm — seizing the World Leaders category and capitalising on a critical misstep to claim the final tile… and ultimate glory.

The unique format saw 81 trivia fanatics start on individual knowledge tiles, challenging each other in timed duels to expand their territory, seize control of the giant floor, and win the grand prize, all under the pressure of the clock.

Rodger Corser said: “Though Patrick flew under the radar for many nights, he took his opportunities when it counted. His knowledge and intellect were undeniable, but his strategic game was even stronger; no one was cooler under pressure…so much so that I had to check for a pulse at one stage. A very well-deserved winner!” 

A trivia buff with a love for science, music and maps, Patrick is a self-described multi-instrumentalist who DJs in his spare time and has a passion for world flags. But it was his razor-sharp mind and clever prep that delivered the edge, including targeted study in topics like Girl Groups, History Makers and World Leaders.

With his $200,000 prize, Patrick plans to invest for the future and make a lifelong dream come true with an epic road trip along the Alaska Highway.

Patrick said: “Winning The Floor Australia feels incredible. Being part of the very first group of contestants — and coming out on top — is something I’m really proud of. I put a lot of study into categories like Girl Groups, History Makers, and World Leaders, so to see that pay off is incredibly satisfying. But honestly, the biggest reward isn’t the money — it’s the friendships I made, the memories from the show, and knowing my family and friends are proud of what I achieved.”

The Floor isn’t just winning trivia battles, it’s winning over audiences too. 

Smashing records as the biggest new show in VOZ history, The Floor is powering 9Network’s blockbuster start to 2025. Every episode has drawn a Total TV audience of over 1 million, with the series averaging 1.3 million viewers (1.1m Broadcast TV | 198k BVOD – Consolidated 28 as at 26/05).

With its spectacular arena, high-stakes gameplay and a great cast of everyday Aussies, The Floor has cemented itself as Australia’s boldest new game show, delivering must-see family viewing and unmissable moments.

The Floor is a Talpa format produced by Eureka Productions for the 9Network.

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

Monday, 26 May, 2025

The biggest rivalry in Australian sport is all set to explode onto Nine when Queensland hosts New South Wales in State of Origin I – exclusive, live and free on Channel 9HD and 9Now on Wednesday, May 28, at 7.00pm AEST.

The home of Origin – Suncorp Stadium sets the scene of the 2025 series opener, as Billy Slater’s Queensland Maroons and 53,000 screaming Queenslanders looking to avenge their shock series loss at the same site last time out, where the NSW Blues clinched a famous victory.

Daly Cherry-Evans will lead the Maroons who welcome back the x-factor of Cameron Munster and enforcer Tino Fa’asuamaleaui to the fold after missing the 2024 series through injury.

Defending their title is the star-studded NSW Blues under the guidance of returning coach and Blues legend Laurie Daley. Locked and loaded to take on the Maroons is Nathan Cleary, Latrell Mitchell, Payne Haas, Stephen Crichton, Brian To’o and debut captain Isaah Yeo.Wide World of Sports’ exclusive Origin coverage will be hosted by James Bracey and feature the biggest names in modern rugby league history, with Origin legends Andrew Johns, Cameron Smith, Paul Gallen, Brad Fittler, Johnathan Thurston, Phil Gould, Darren Lockyer and Sam Thaiday on hand to dissect every moment of the action.

Danika Mason will deliver live updates from the sideline alongside Fittler and Lockyer, while  Allana Ferguson joins the panel to analyse the key match-ups. In the commentary box Mathew Thompson is flanked by former NSW and Queensland captains, Andrew Johns and Cameron Smith.

Channel 9 will cross live during the broadcast to both Origin coaches, Billy Slater and Laurie Daley. Both coaches will open the doors to Wide World of Sports in both camps, with viewers getting unprecedented access to exclusive content, including Johnathan Thurston crossing live from the Queensland team bus as it drives down Caxton St and exclusive dressing rooms access.

Get closer to action with 9Now’s exclusive camera angles focussed on Nathan Cleary, Kalyn Ponga and Spider Cam available direct to your phone while watching the main event on the big screen. Download the app or head to 9now.com.au

• Player Cam QLD – Kalyn Ponga
• Player Cam NSW – Nathan Cleary
• Spidercam–An eagle-eye view of play to take you that little bit closer to the action

After the game you can catch up with 9Now mini-match for all the best bits in a 20-minute breakdown.

AMPOL STATE OF ORIGIN I – QUEENSLAND v NEW SOUTH WALES 
LIVE from Suncorp Stadium, Wednesday May 28

Sydney                 7.00pm LIVE on Channel 9HD and 9Now
Brisbane               7.00pm LIVE on Channel 9HD and 9Now
Melbourne            7.00pm LIVE on Channel 9HD and 9Now
Adelaide               6.30pm LIVE on 9GemHD, 7.00pm on Channel 9HD and 9Now
Perth                    5.00pm LIVE on 9GoHD, 5.30pm on Channel 9HD and 9Now

THE BUILD-UP TO ORIGIN ON NINE

100% FOOTY: SUNCORP STADIUM ORIGIN SPECIAL – Monday, May 26. 8.50pm
100% Footy is the home of the strongest opinions in rugby league from the people who count. Phil Gould, Cameron Smith, Paul Gallen, journalist Danny Weidler and host James Bracey. Available on Channel 9, 9Now and YouTube.

FREDDY AND THE EIGHTH SUNCORP STADIUM SPECIAL –  Tuesday, May 27, 9.00pm
NSW legends Brad Fittler and the Eighth rugby league Immortal Andrew Johns preview Origin I from Suncorp Stadium with Maroons legend and Queensland Rugby League CEO Ben Ikin. Available on Channel 9, 9Now and YouTube.

SIX TACKLES WITH GUS
Phil “Gus” Gould sits down with Mat Thompson every week to give a sermon like no other on the greatest game of all.

QUEENSLANDER – The Sunshine State’s favourite sons, Wally “The King” Lewis and Darren Lockyer, give their Maroon-coloured preview of how the Queenslanders are shaping up for Origin I with 9News reporter Adam Jackson. Available on 9Now and YouTube.

THE BILLY SLATER PODCAST – ORIGIN SPECIAL FROM MAROONS MEDIA DAY
Get the hot take from the greatest fullback ever to play the game, Queensland coach Billy Slater, hosted by Peter Psaltis. Listen here.

STORIES OF ORIGIN PODCAST: SEASON 4 – MAGIC MOMENTS
Episode 4: Ben Hunt Go Dozer! Released Monday 26 May

In the 45th year of Australian sport’s fiercest rivalry, the award winning podcast series Stories of Origin returns for 2025 with its most emotional series yet – Magic Moments.

Podcast Available on 9Podcasts, Spotify, Apple and Google

Episode 1 – Arthur Beetson’s Arrival
Guests: Wally Lewis, Phil Gould, Roy Masters
Features rare audio from the Nine archive, unheard for over 45 years.

Episode 2 – Teddy’s Match Winner
Guests: James Tedesco, Brad Fittler

Episode 3 – The Miracle Try
Guests: Mark Coyne, Peter Sterling, Phil Gould, Wally Lewis, Brad Fittler

Episode 4 – Turvey Chaired Off
Guests: Mark Geyer, Roy Masters, Phil Gould, Darryl Brohman, Peter Wynn

Episode 5 – Go Dozer! Hunt 2022 – Released Monday, May 26
Guests: Ben Hunt, Billy Slater, Johnathan Thurston, James Tedesco

Episode 6 – Decider 2024 – Released Monday, June 2
Guests: Darren Lockyer, Mark Geyer, Brad Fittler, Johnathan Thurston

WWOS.NINE.COM.AU 
The #1 online destination for all your Origin news content:
– Live blog featuring video highlights and analysis from Channel 9’s Origin commentators
– A comprehensive Match Centre, featuring video highlights, scores and stats
– The Mole’s no-holds-barred Player Ratings
– Match reports and analysis capturing all the big moments of the game

9NEWS – James Bracey will deliver the 9News sports bulletin live from Suncorp Staidum on game night. No need to worry about any dramatic, last-minute team changes – we’ll have our eyes and ears all over the build-up from the second the teams arrive at the stadium on 9News.

STATE OF ORIGIN I
WEDNESDAY, MAY 28, AT 7.00PM
EXCLUSIVE, LIVE AND FREE ON NINE

Saturday, 25 May, 2025

The powerful investigative podcast The Ultimate Sacrifice, from 9News Queensland and 9Podcasts, has won the prestigious Gold Award for Best Narrative Documentary Podcast at the internationally recognised New York Festival Radio Awards.

Presented by 9News Queensland’s Melissa Downes, with Jessica Lodge executive producer, sound design and editing by Adam Buncher, technical production by Matt White, and creative direction by Sam Stove, The Ultimate Sacrifice explored the harrowing events of Australia’s first Christian terrorist attack, an ambush that led to the murder of two young police officers and an innocent civilian.

This gripping series delved into the complexities of religious extremism, the trauma of frontline responders, and the evolving investigation, culminating in revelations from a live Coronial Inquest. This made it one of the first Coronial Inquests to be documented and covered in real-time podcast format in Australia.

Following the landmark success of their internationally acclaimed podcast debut Hannah’s Story, The Ultimate Sacrifice podcast marks the second smash hit from Melissa Downes, Jessica Lodge and Adam Buncher.

In a joint statement, Downes and Lodge said: “On behalf of the team, we are incredibly proud and humbled to have had the opportunity to tell this story.

“In a media landscape that often moves quickly and forgets too soon, we poured our time and care into crafting a detailed, emotionally sensitive and comprehensive account. To see this being recognised on a global stage is an incredible honor.”

Managing Director of Nine Radio, Tom Malone said: “This international recognition for The Ultimate Sacrifice is a powerful reminder of how podcasting can bring critical stories to life. Melissa, Jessica and the team have delivered an extraordinary investigation, not only breaking new ground as one of the first podcasts to follow a Coronial Inquest in real-time, but doing so with exceptional care and integrity.

“Once again, the collaboration between 9News and 9Podcasts proves to be a force, combining world-class journalism with the storytelling power of audio to deliver impact that truly resonates.”

Following in the footsteps of Hannah’s Story, which supported Sue & Lloyd Clarke’s campaign for Hannah’s Law and is now being used in domestic violence training programs across the country, The Ultimate Sacrifice continues the team’s mission to share stories that not only inform but create lasting change. The Ultimate Sacrifice soared to the top of the Spotify charts in Australia, holding the #1 spot for over a month, and has 1.6 million downloads and counting.

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

Friday, 23 May, 2025