Authors Rodney Hall and Lech Blaine led an esteemed field of writers at The Age’s annual Book of the Year Awards last night during the opening night of the Melbourne Writers Festival.
With Hall’s novel Vortex taking out the fiction category, and Blaine’s memoir Australian Gospel awarded best non-fiction, the winners each received $10,000 thanks to the Copyright Agency’s Cultural Fund.
Both authors were praised by the judges – author and critic Bram Presser; The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald’s Canberra Bureau Chief Michelle Griffin; author, reviewer and mission director of Caritas Australia, Michael McGirr, and author and director Lorin Clake – for writing books that stay with readers long after their final pages.
Queensland-based Hall, who is 89 and unable to attend the awards in person, said that Vortex “was a risk from the beginning”. The novel, which is set in Brisbane in 1954, depicts an alternative history of the 20th century.
Blaine’s memoir Australian Gospel tells the story of his family’s battle with the biological parents of his three fostered siblings. The parents were Christian fanatics who fought for decades to get their children back.
The Age editor Patrick Elligett said: “Engaging with thought provoking ideas and stories is addictive and The Age is proud of its long history encouraging that addiction through its coverage of the literary scene and support of writers around the country.”
The Age Book of the Year Awards has been running for 44 years and has honoured some of the most celebrated writers in Australia including David Malouf, Thea Astley, Tony Birch, Tim Winton, Elizabeth Jolley and Robbie Arnott.
For further information, please contact: Adrian Motte Senior Communications Manager – Trade & Publishing amotte@nine.com.au
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, as James Tedesco features this week when Teddy’s Match Winner is available today – Monday, May 5.
In his first deep dive into his famous moment, Tedesco relives one of the greatest moments in State of Origin history. Listeners are taken back to the 2019 series decider in Sydney, where New South Wales stood on the edge of despair until one frantic, flawless sequence flipped the script forever.
Tedesco’s miraculous final-minute try cemented his place in Origin folklore leaving Queensland stunned and NSW with their first back-to-back series win since 2005.
The 2025 Magic Moments Stories covers Arthur Beetson’s thunderous first steps onto Lang Park in 1980, Coyne’s miracle try to Ben Hunt’s runaway redemption. Rare and never-before-heard Nine archive audio, raw behind-the-scenes reflections, and the emotion that makes Origin what it is – passion, pride, and power.
From the unforgettable to the unbelievable, these are the moments that made you shout, cry, and believe again. Chosen by fans and told by legends, this six-part series takes you inside the most iconic plays in State of Origin history – straight from the mouths of those who lived them.
Narrated by Mathew Thompson, the series featuring Wally Lewis, Brad Fittler, Phil Gould, Ben Hunt, Roy Masters, Billy Slater, and more.
Stories of Origin – Teddy’s Match Winner on 9Now, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.
STORIES OF ORIGIN – EPISODE LIST AND RELEASE DATES
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 – Released Monday, May 5 Guests: James Tedesco, Brad Fittler
Episode 3 – The Miracle Try – Released Monday, May 12 Guests: Mark Coyne, Peter Sterling, Phil Gould, Wally Lewis, Brad Fittler
Episode 4 – Turvey Chaired Off – Released Monday, May 19 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
The journey of Australia’s newest NRL team continues with RISE OF THE DOLPHINS: Episode 2 on Channel 9 following 100% Footy, or to stream anywhere, anytime on 9Now from Monday, May 5.
This three part series dives deeper into the lives, laughs, and dressing room moments of the Dolphins as they tackle their final season under the legendary coach Wayne Bennett.
Building on the heartfelt and humorous tone of the series, Episode 2 offers fans an intimate look at the personalities that define the Dolphins on and off the field. From brushstrokes to birth stories, it’s an episode packed with unexpected moments and behind-the-scenes gold.
Episode 2 Highlights:
Herbie Farnworth gives the ultimate quiz to partner Lily — how well does she really know the Dolphins roster?
Josh Kerr and partner Dijana get creative in a quirky and heartfelt portrait painting session.
Josh Kerr and Connelly Lemuelu get deep (and a little wild) with conspiracy theories in their Perth hotel room.
Mascot Dwayne Bennett makes his on-screen debut, while the WAGS watch the Warriors game.
Mic’d Up Mayhem as Herbie’s partner Lily captures all the drama as he faces his former team, the Broncos.
Tom Gilbert’s North Harbour Segment gives fans a glimpse into his life off the field and his special connection with the North Harbour community.
Rise of The Dolphins is more than a sports docuseries – it’s a raw, often hilarious, and always human look into what makes a team more than just a lineup.
A family lunch in country Victoria ended in tragedy. Three guests died. A fourth nearly didn’t survive. Now, as Erin Patterson faces court charged with their murders, 9News, The Age and 9Podcasts invite audiences inside the case that has captivated the world.
The Mushroom Trial: Say Grace is the latest must-listen podcast from Australia’s most trusted newsroom. Led by 9News and The Age journalists Penelope Liersch and Erin Pearson, the podcast takes listeners into the courtroom in real time – unpacking the evidence, analysing the testimony, and offering exclusive insights from inside the Latrobe Valley courtroom.
Building on the success of The Missing Campers Trial, Liersch and Pearson once again combine their expertise in crime and justice reporting to deliver a gripping narrative backed by Nine’s unmatched journalistic resources, real-time reporting, and multimedia storytelling.
“This is a case that’s made headlines around the world,” said co-host Penelope Liersch. “But what really happens in court is far more complex than a headline. We’re here to help listeners understand every step—from the evidence to the emotion in the room.”
“The prosecution will try to prove the accused had murderous intent,” added Erin Pearson, Crime and Justice Reporter at The Age. “We’ll take people with us into the courtroom to understand how the justice system works when someone stands trial for murder.”
The first episode of The Mushroom Trial: Say Grace is available now. New episodes will drop as the trial unfolds. Listen wherever you get your podcasts.
For further information, please contact: Caitlin Lynch Senior Communications Manager, Nine clynch@nine.com.au
Nine today announced the appointment of highly respected journalist Joel Dry as the new co-presenter of 9News Queensland’s 6.00pm bulletin, alongside Melissa Downes. Joel will commence his role in August.
This appointment marks a significant return to Nine for Joel, who first began his television reporting career with the network in Adelaide in September 2009. He subsequently moved to Channel 9 Queensland in December 2011 and later served as a federal politics reporter for Channel 9 in Canberra.
Joel is stepping into the role previously held by the esteemed Andrew “Lofty” Lofthouse, who retired earlier this year.
Melissa Downes, 9News Queensland presenter said, “This is an exciting time for 9News Queensland, a regeneration, and I know the team will be just as delighted as I am to have Joel joining me on the 6.00pm news desk. I know he will bring a new energy to the newsroom and his insightful reporting will add depth to our bulletin, offering our viewers an even richer understanding of the stories that matter most.
“We are thrilled to welcome Joel back to Nine,” said Brendan Hockings, Director of 9News Queensland.
“His extensive experience covering significant Queensland stories, from natural disasters to major sporting events including the Olympics and Commonwealth Games, speaks volumes about his dedication and journalistic skill. He is a familiar and trusted face for our viewers.
“Joel’s deep understanding of Queensland and his proven track record make him the ideal choice to partner with Melissa. We know our audience will warmly welcome him to the 6.00pm bulletin.”
Joel Dry said, “I’m thrilled to be returning home to Nine, where I began my life in news many years ago.
“I have so much respect for Melissa who was always very generous and supportive to me during my years at Nine and it’s an honour to again work alongside such an admired journalist.”
“The team in the Channel 9 Queensland newsroom are tough, fair, relentless and award winning. I can’t wait to be a part of bringing Queenslanders the news they deserve.
Joel’s connection to 9News Queensland runs deep. It was there that he met his now wife, Jessica Milward, a senior journalist currently serving as Channel 9’s Europe Correspondent in the London bureau. Joel is presently in the UK supporting Jessica in her role.
The couple announced their engagement live on Today in 2016 and married in 2018 and have one child together. Jessica will also be returning to Brisbane later this year, reuniting the couple in the same newsroom.
Joel’s return signifies an exciting new chapter for 9News Queensland, building on its commitment to delivering trusted and comprehensive news coverage to viewers across the state.
For further information, please contact: Lucy Charles 9Network Publicity lucy.charles@nine.com.au
Perth’s 6PR has reaffirmed its dominance as the No.1 news and talk station in WA achieving a 7.3 share – a growth of 0.2% from the previous survey and up 1.8% year-on-year.
Time Spent Listening for 6PR was again #1 in Perth increasing another 34 minutes with its closest competitor nearly 2 hours behind.
6PR Breakfast with Steve Mills and Karl Langdon (5am – 9am) recorded a share of 9.8 – up 0.4% compared to last survey.
Perth Today with Simon Beaumont (9am – 1pm) posted a share of 7.6 (up 1.6%, year-on-year),and Perth Live with Oliver Peterson (1pm – 5pm) secureda share of 5.6 – up 1.2% year-on-year.
Streaming also continues to be a strong growth channel:
Streaming Millsy and Karl: #1 Share – 22
Streaming Share: 11.8% (No.1 Talk Station in streaming)
6PR Content Manager, Brad Pottinger said: “Great to see Perth listeners tuning in for even longer with TSL continuing to be #1. Survey 2 included our AFL coverage with cume and share growth in all timeslots survey to survey plus year-on-year. I’m not surprised due to the talent in our team.”
Further highlights of GfK Radio 360 Survey 2 in Perth are:
Wide World of Sports recorded a share of 5.8 (Monday-Friday 5.00pm – 7.00pm)
Weekends with Jamie Burnett claimed a share of 8.3 – up 2.5% year on year (Sat 6.00am-10.00am and Sun 6.00am- 12pm)
Brisbane’s 4BC continues its upward trajectory in 2025, recording solid growth across all key programming, with the station achieving an overall share of 4.9% (up 0.5) in the latest GfK Radio survey results.
The station’s total radio cumulative audience saw a strong increase of 16.5%, including a massive 42% surge among People 25–54 and a 15.2% rise in the 40+ demographic. AP10+ is up 10% compared to the previous survey, while 4BC’s streaming audience also continues to build, posting a 16% increase in cume and delivering a streaming share of 6.6%.
All local shows, Breakfast with Peter Fegan, Mornings with Bill McDonald, Afternoons with Sofie Formica, Drive with Gary Hardgrave, and Wide World of Sports with Peter Psaltis, recorded gains in both market share and cumulative audience, including the station’s new weekend show, Step Outside with Paul Burt, making a strong debut in its first survey with 4BC.
4BC Content Manager, Siobhain McDonnell says: “Seeing this growth across all local dayparts is a testament to the team’s hard work and commitment to rebuild as Brisbane’s prominent talk station. We are committed to keeping Brisbane entertained and informed and the results today reflect that”.
The Survey 2 results highlight that 4BC’s dedication to delivering live and local programming continues to strike a chord with Brisbane audiences.
3AW has once again claimed the crown as Melbourne’s No. 1 radio station, continuing its reign as the city’s trusted source for live, local and engaging talk radio.
The GfK Radio 360 Survey 2 results, released today, show 3AW firmly ahead of the pack with an impressive audience share of 14.1 and a leading commercial streaming share of 28.4%.
Each week, 687,000 Melburnians tune in to 3AW, drawn to its compelling content across news, opinion, sport and conversation.
3AW remains No. 1 in key dayparts – Breakfast, Mornings, Evenings, Weekends and Football – with continued strong performances across all programs.
Ross and Russ remain unmatched at Breakfast, posting a market-leading share of 19.3 – up 0.7 on the same survey last year and 8.6 points ahead of their nearest competitor. Their show reaches 450,000 listeners every week and continues to dominate commercial streaming with a 46.1% share.
Tom Elliott has once again delivered a winning performance in Mornings, recording a share of 15.8 and attracting a weekly audience of 447,000. He also leads the commercial streaming space with 33.5%.
In Afternoons, Tony Moclair delivered a share of 9.9. His blend of topical conversation and listener engagement continues to resonate strongly with Melbourne audiences.
In Drive, Jacqui Felgate recorded a share of 9.8 – up 2.4 points on the same survey last year.
In Evenings, Denis Walter continues to lead the market with a share of 24.7 – up 0.9 points on the same survey last year.
3AW Football has had a great start to 2025 – the number 1 station overall for Thursday night, Friday night, Saturday and Sunday in the competitive AFL market.
Darren James’ Weekend Breakfast also maintains its position as Melbourne’s favourite weekend listening.
3AW Station Manager Stephen Beers said: “These results are a great endorsement of the work our entire team does every day to deliver quality, live and local programming. We’re thrilled to remain Melbourne’s No. 1 station and grateful to our listeners for their loyalty and trust. Our commitment is always to inform and entertain this city, and these results reflect the strength of that connection.”
2GB has stormed to an outright No.1 position in Sydney, delivering a commanding 12.8 radio share (up 1.2) and leading in all key timeslots, as audiences embrace the station’s refreshed line-up and trusted talk programming.
Ben Fordham Live remains the clear No.1 in Breakfast, posting a 15.5 share (up 1.4) on radio and a 39.5% share in commercial streaming. Mark Levy has strengthened his hold on Mornings in his second only survey, recording a 15.5 share (up 2.0) and a 32.2% commercial streaming share, making him Sydney’s most listened-to voice in the timeslot.
In commercial streaming, 2GB leads nationally with a 31.3% share, reflecting strong digital engagement across Breakfast and Mornings in particular.
Greg Byrnes, 2GB Station Manager and National Content Manager, said: “It’s this 24/7 commitment to live and local coverage that sets 2GB apart in Sydney and all the hard work pays off when we get a survey result like this one.”
“The figures recorded by Ben in Breakfast and Mark in Mornings are stunning, but 2GB has recorded share increases and longer listening patterns in all day parts.
“Sydney has embraced the shift changes we made at the beginning of the year and we thank those listeners who turn to 2GB for trusted news, opinion and entertainment around the issues affecting them most.”
Across the rest of the day, 2GB dominated talk radio:
Afternoons with Michael McLaren: 10.3 share (up 1.7) – No.1 in Talk
Sydney Live with Clinton Maynard: 8.4 share (up 1.0) – No.1 in Talk
Wide World of Sports with Adam Hawse: 8.6 share (up 0.8)
Money News with Deborah Knight: 12.7 share (up 2.0)
AUSTRALIANS TUNING INTO TRUSTED TALK FOR LONGER AS NINE RADIO BUILDS RATINGS MOMENTUM IN 2025
TOTAL RADIO
Nine Radio has extended its flying start to 2025, with 2GB and 3AW leading the market in Sydney and Melbourne and strong gains across the country as audiences spend more time listening to the very best in trusted news, opinion, sport and entertainment.
2GB is Sydney’s No.1 station, lifting to a 12.8 share (up 1.2), and delivering strong growth across all day parts. Ben Fordham Live has surged 3 points clear of it’s nearest rival to a 15.6 Share as the No.1 Breakfast show and Mark Levy has cemented his claim on the Mornings slot with a standout 15.5 share (up 2.0). The refreshed Sydney lineup is clearly resonating with listeners and driving outstanding results, with strong gains across all day parts.
3AW dominates the Melbourne market with consistent, high-quality coverage that connects with the city, delivering a 14.1 share. Breakfast with Ross Stevenson and Russel Howcroft remaining the outright No.1 with a 19.3 share, and Mornings with Tom Elliott following suit with a commanding 15.8 share.
Brisbane’s 4BC and Perth’s 6PR also recorded gains, with audiences tuning in longer across the board.
Nine’s National Content Manager, Greg Byrnes said: “These are great results for our talk stations, with more people listening longer right across the country. Sydney has embraced 2GB’s new line up with big audience gains in all shifts and 3AW has maintained its dominance in Melbourne.”
“The line up changes in Perth and Brisbane are bedding in well with 6PR now the top rating talk station across the key day parts and 4BC posting a big increase in listeners.
“This survey shows people rely on talk radio during times of global and economic uncertainty and we’re honoured to be Australia’s source of trusted news, opinion and information.”
COMMERCIAL RADIO SHARE
TOTAL RADIO CUME
16.2 (4 markets)
1.67 million listeners each week
STREAMING
Nine’s live audio streaming audiences continue to grow as the network claims the undisputed No.1 title nationally with a 28.3% share. 2GB and 3AW lead streaming listenership with shares of 31.3% and 28.4%, respectively, with streaming also strong in all key shifts:
Breakfast with Ross and Russel: 46.1%
Ben Fordham Live: 39.5%
Mornings with Tom Elliott: 33.5%
Mornings with Mark Levy: 32.2%
Greg Byrnes said: “There’s no better way to listen to our live and local content than via a connected device. It’s clear, convenient and always on. Our talk stations dominate the streaming market, and as more Australians find us on a digital device it’s an exciting time to be creating talk radio.”
COMMERCIAL STREAMING SHARE
STREAMING CUME
28.3
345,000
PODCASTS
The Nine Podcast Network has cemented its position as a major force in Australian podcasting, jumping two spots to become the No.4 publisher nationally in the March 2025 Australian Podcast Ranker – overtaking both Nova Entertainment and Mamamia.
With over 1.4 million listeners and 3.44 million downloads in March, Nine’s continued growth is driven by a diverse slate spanning news, sport, business, lifestyle and entertainment – all grounded in trusted voices and quality storytelling.
The return of the footy season delivered a major lift, with 3AW Football attracting over 55,000 listeners, Six Tackles with Gus reaching 52,000, with other strong performers in the Top 200 including Real Footy, Eddie & Jimmy, and Marlee & Me.
Mia Stern, Nine Radio’s Head of Digital Growth, said: “This jump in the publisher rankings is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team. We are incredibly proud to see our podcasts connecting with more listeners than ever before.”
“Our focus remains on delivering compelling audio experiences, making that content available as widely as possible, and providing valuable opportunities for advertisers to reach engaged audiences.”
