Archives: Media Releases

Paul “Fatty” Vautin, one of Australian television’s most beloved personalities, has announced his retirement from Channel 9, marking the end of a remarkable 33-year career at the network.  

A permanent fixture of Australian television, known for his wit, warmth, and passion for rugby league. Vautin leaves a legacy of countless live sports commentary and entertainment hostings that created unforgettable television moments.

Following his glittering playing career where he represented Australia and captained his beloved Queensland Maroons and Manly Sea Eagles, including a premiership in 1987, Vautin began his broadcasting career at Channel 9 in 1991 on the Midday show alongside Ray Martin, Derryn Hinch and Kerri-Anne Kennerley, where he co-hosted a weekly sports segment with former cricketer Simon O’Donnell.

His infectious personality, combined with his deep personal experiences in the game, saw him rise within the network to join the highly renowned Wide World of Sports team, alongside the voice of rugby league Ray “Rabs” Warren and Peter Sterling, including the debut of The Sunday Footy Show in 1993.

However, it was his long-running role on Thursday nights as the host of The Footy Show, which began in September 1994, that cemented his status as an Australian television legend. 

The Footy Show became a cultural phenomenon, blending sport, entertainment, and comedy, and offering an irreverent, behind-the-scenes look at the world of rugby league. As the charismatic and cheeky host, alongside Sterling, Fatty’s unique ability to balance humour with genuine passion for the game made him a standout figure as his larger-than-life personality, quick wit, and easy rapport with guests and colleagues shone through. 

His decades-long partnership with fellow commentators and sports figures, including Peter Sterling, Paul “The Chief” Harragon, Mario Fenech, Matty Johns, Darryl “Big Marn” Brohman and Beau Ryan was a defining aspect of his time on The Footy Show, where the interactions with players, coaches, and fans were often as entertaining as the games themselves.

The show’s success was recognised with 11 TV Week Logies Awards for best sports entertainment program, and in 2003, Vautin was awarded the prestigious Logie Award for Most Popular Sports Presenter. 

Always maintaining his role as a regular fixture in the Wide World of Sports commentary box, he developed the ability to simplify the game to entertain and inform some of the highest rating television programs in Australian history, spanning State of Origin, NRL Grand Finals and International fixtures.

Speaking on his retirement, Vautin said: “I’ve been incredibly fortunate to work with so many talented people over the years, and I’ve had the pleasure of connecting with some of the most passionate sports fans in the country.

“It’s been an absolute privilege to be part of and I’m grateful for every moment. I’ll miss the laughs, the banter, and of course, the incredible athletes, commentators and the Channel 9 family that I’ve been lucky enough to work with for over three decades.”

Nine Acting CEO, Matt Stanton, said: “Paul Vautin is a true icon of Australian television and a much loved member of the Nine family. After an outstanding playing career he forged a stellar path here at Nine, and we’re truly proud and thankful for what he has achieved. 

“He has been a major part in forging our successful and long standing partnership with the NRL and the passionate fans of the game with his cheeky, yet passionate takes that have  resonated so broadly. We wish him all the best in retirement and will continue to celebrate what he has accomplished for business.”

Nine Director of Sport, Brent Williams, said: “Fatty’s contribution to Nine and Wide World of Sports over 30 years comfortably puts him in the upper echelon of contributors to the Australian television landscape. His infectious energy and warmth, plus a wicked sense of humour made his style unmissable for generations of NRL and sporting fans. 

“Throughout his remarkable television journey, his greatest strength was that he never tried to be anything but himself, which was more than enough for audiences to love him. We thank him for the countless laughs, unforgettable moments, unique insights and friendship. He will always be an integral part of the Wide World of Sports family.”

Ryley McKay
9Network Publicity
ryley.mckay@nine.com.au 

Sunday, December 1, 2024

Friday 29 November 2024: Nine Entertainment (Nine) has today shared an Action Plan to accelerate, address and measure its cultural transformation, following a review into its culture by independent workplace firm, Intersection. 

The Action Plan, which has been endorsed by Nine’s Board, is designed to deliver lasting change and outlines how the 22 recommendations will be sequenced, measured, and embedded across the organisation. It focuses Nine’s efforts into four priority areas: People and Culture; Leadership; Policy, Procedures and Governance; and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. 

Since releasing the Intersection Report in full in October, more than 60 per cent of the recommendations are complete or underway. Two additional commitments have also been identified and invested in to address and uplift Nine’s culture. This includes transitioning to a new, holistic Employee Wellbeing Provider and delivering a new leadership development program including 1:1 coaching to 200 of Nine’s leaders. 

Today, Nine has announced it will conduct a cultural pulse check in two years, a year ahead of the recommended time frame. This will allow Nine to gain an understanding of its impact and progress, and refine the Action Plan if required. A more indepth review will be conducted in three years, in line with the recommendations.  

To ensure Nine’s cultural transformation is led from the top, its senior leaders will have their remuneration and incentives connected to cultural-specific measurements and outcomes.  

Nine Entertainment Acting CEO Matt Stanton said: “Nine’s Action Plan forms an important part of Nine2028, which is the acceleration of our strategy and encompasses our business and culture transformation. Spearheaded by the Board and management team, everyone at Nine is united by the need for change. The progress made over the past six weeks is reflective of our collective desire to move quickly and build a Nine we can all be proud of. 

“Since the release of the Intersection Report, Nine has taken decisive action which will positively contribute to our cultural uplift. We’ve also spent a lot of time connecting and communicating with our people, reflecting on how we can learn from this difficult yet necessary process and make lasting change. 

“While our commitments to embedding our Action Plan remain unwavering, our cultural transformation ambitions are broader than the 22 recommendations alone, and indeed broader than Nine itself. Of course, our unrelenting focus remains on addressing Nine’s cultural issues, however there is no denying the prevalence of poor behaviour in the media industry is unacceptable and change is required. 

“As the largest employer in the industry we believe we can play an active role in shaping the cultural change required to create a safe, respectful and thriving industry. At the appropriate time, we look forward to engaging with our industry peers to address these issues,” Mr Stanton said. 

Nine management will regularly report to the Board on the progress and outcomes of its Action Plan. The Action Plan can be viewed here.

Caitlin Lynch
Senior Communications Manager – Corporate
clynch@nine.com.au 

Football legend and radio rising star, Jimmy Bartel will host Wide World of Sports, Thursday Night Footy and Friday Night Footy on Melbourne’s Number 1 Station – 3AW – in 2025.

The triple premiership player, Brownlow Medallist, Norm Smith Medallist and AFL Hall of Famer will headline the go to destination for the best footy insights and analysis, together with talkback debate and discussion in this new era of AFL.

Jimmy is already well loved by the 3AW audience, hosting Sunday AFL last year, filling in on breakfast with Mark Allen and raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for Very Special Kids. 

Jimmy Bartel said: “I’m thrilled to take on this new role. Being part of the 3AW family has been incredibly rewarding. I can’t wait to engage with listeners, bring them the big stories, and celebrate everything that makes sport so special.”

Stephen Beers, 3AW Station Manager, said: “Jimmy Bartel has long been part of the 3AW family, and we’re thrilled to see him step into the hosting role for Wide World of Sport, along with Thursday Night Footy and Friday Night Footy. Jimmy’s deep understanding of sport, combined with his media savvy and natural connection with audiences, makes him the ideal choice. He’s also got a massive heart – and our listeners love him. We thank Sam McClure for his fantastic contributions and wish him all the best as he focuses on his role at The Age.”

Ash Earnshaw, Nine’s Director of Sales, Total Audio, said: “3AW now has the biggest and best platform for sports lovers and sports advertisers. Jimmy Bartel’s appointment strengthens an already iconic program and reinforces our position as the leading destination for AFL and Sport. Jimmy’s presence across both 3AW and Nine enhances the synergy of the Wide World of Sports brand, delivering exceptional opportunities for advertisers to connect with passionate and engaged audiences.”

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

Friday, November 29, 2024

4BC will be the only radio station in Brisbane delivering live and local content in 2025, bringing together a powerhouse of expert broadcasters, dedicated to delivering the best locally-driven news, information and entertainment.

Peter Fegan will take the helm of 4BC Breakfast, providing a sharp focus on the issues that matter most to Brisbane. From 9.00am, Bill McDonald will lead 4BC Mornings, engaging with listeners across Brisbane and holding Queensland policy makers to account.

At midday, Sofie Formica brings her signature style to 4BC Afternoons, seamlessly blending local culture and human-interest stories with sharp insights into current affairs. While Gary Hardgrave takes over 4BC Drive, guiding listeners through their evening commute with commentary and analysis.

Rounding out the evening, Peter Psaltis anchors Wide World of Sports, offering in-depth coverage of the best in sport, expert analysis, and exclusive interviews with the biggest names in the industry.

4BC Content Manager, Siobhain McDonnell, said: “This lineup reflects 4BC’s unwavering commitment to delivering live and local content. Each host brings a deep-rooted understanding of Brisbane’s needs, and together, they will forge meaningful connections with our audience.

“Brisbane is experiencing unprecedented growth, and this team is ready to lead the conversations that matter most to our vibrant, evolving community. With our state-of-the-art studios set for 2025, 4BC is poised to deliver a gold-standard audio experience, ensuring the very best content no matter where our listeners are tuning in.”

4BC’s live and local Monday – Friday lineup features:

• 4BC Breakfast with Peter Fegan 5.30am – 9.00am
• 4BC Mornings with Bill McDonald 9.00am – 12.00pm
• 4BC Afternoons with Sofie Formica 12.00pm – 3.00pm
• 4BC Drive with Gary Hardgrave 3.00pm – 6.00pm
• 4BC WWOS with Peter Psaltis 6.00pm – 7.00pm

LISTEN TO 4BC HERE
LIKE 4BC on FACEBOOK
FOLLOW 4BC on X (TWITTER) and INSTAGRAM  

For further information, please contact:
Madison Long
9 Publicity
madison.long@nine.com.au

Friday, November 29, 2024

This Christmas Eve David Campbell and Sarah Abo return to present Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight presented by AAMI, live from the Sidney Myer Music Bowl on Tuesday, December 24, at 8.00pm on Channel 9 and 9Now. 

Each year, Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight brings families together as a cherished Australian tradition, featuring some of the biggest stars in music and musical theatre, all generously donating their time to support Vision Australia.

This year’s stellar lineup includes the dynamic and award-winning vocals of Anthony Callea, the cast of Sister Act starring Casey Donovan, World music star Dami Im, star of TINA – The Tina Turner Musical, Ruva Ngwenya, ARIA Award winner Emma Memma, 2024 Golden Guitar nominee and Australian Idol winner Dylan Wright, plus music sensation Bonnie Anderson, much loved entertainer Tim Campbell and many more.

And our brilliant Carols family return, including Marina Prior, Silvie Paladino, David Hobson and Denis Walter.

David Campbell said: “Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight is something I look forward to every year. It’s truly one of the highlights of the festive season. I’m thrilled to be a part of this incredible event once again, especially knowing that it supports such an important cause. 

“Raising funds for people who are blind or have low vision through Vision Australia makes this night even more meaningful. It’s a chance to spread joy and make a real difference in the lives of those who need it most.”

Sarah Abo said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be hosting Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight again alongside David in my home town of Melbourne. It’s such a wonderful night and I can’t wait to celebrate Christmas Eve with everyone.”

Carols by Candlelight is Vision Australia’s biggest annual fundraiser for children’s services, with 100 per cent of profits from ticket sales going directly towards supporting close to 2,000 families with children who are blind or have low vision. Tickets to the Sidney Myer Music Bowl are on sale now and can be purchased via www.carolsbycandlelight.com.au.

VISION AUSTRALIA’S CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT:
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 24, LIVE AT 8.00PM 
ON CHANNEL 9 & 9NOW

@Channel9 @carolsbycandlelight_aus 
#CarolsByCandlelight 
To make a donation to Vision Australia visit www.givetocarols.com

For further information, please contact:
Alexandra Reed 
alexandra.reed@nine.com.au

Alexandra Maiolo
alexandra.maiolo@nine.com.au

Thursday, November 28, 2024

It started as a beautiful summer morning, warm and sunny, but ended as one of the darkest days in Australia’s history. December 15, 2014, is indelibly seared into the nation’s psyche as the moment when terrorism came to the heart of Sydney.

Ten years on, this Sunday, Peter Overton presents a powerful special edition of 60 MINUTES, remembering the 17 hours of terror at the Lindt Café siege.

At 8.33am on that horrific day, lone-wolf gunman Man Haron Monis, claiming allegiance to Islamic State, walked into the popular café and shortly thereafter took 18 innocent people hostage. Threatening not only to shoot his captives, but also to detonate bombs he’d planted around the city, Monis wreaked havoc until 2.13am the following morning.

When the ordeal was over, not only was the terrorist dead – tragically, so were two hostages, Tori Johnson and Katrina Dawson.

Through the recollections of survivors inside the café, as well as the perspectives of police and political leaders charged with ending the siege, this program is a showcase of the bravery of the men and women whose lives continue to be affected by that awful day.

It is also a tribute to the memories of the victims and a timely reminder to heed the painful lessons learnt from the tragedy to ensure such a crime never happens again in Australia.

Reporter: Peter Overton
Producers: Laura Sparkes, Alex Chance
SNEAK PEEK

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60 MINUTES
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1, AT 7.00PM ON CHANNEL 9 & 9NOW

For further information, please contact:
Madison Long
9 Publicity
madison.long@nine.com.au

Thursday, November 28, 2024

Widely-respected and award-winning journalist Sam McClure is set to return to The Age as senior sports affairs reporter, working across AFL and breaking news on major sporting events and institutions.

McClure, who as the journalist behind The Age’s Scoop column has proved to be one of the best news breakers in sport journalism, will begin his new role from January to coincide with the Australian Open. 

McClure first joined The Age in 2016 and resigned from a full time role in 2022. His return to the masthead as senior sports affairs journalist, will see McClure cover the big stories in AFL and explore the stories and the people behind major sporting events, including the Australian Open tennis and the Formula 1 Grand Prix, and their part in Australia’s sporting landscape. 

“It’s truly an honour to come back to The Age and work alongside Australia’s best journalists,” said McClure. “The Age holds a particularly special place in my heart given my father’s Geoff history with the masthead. To be able to follow in his footsteps means more to me than I’m able to put into words. I’m looking forward to getting my teeth stuck in and what better way to start than with the Australian Open.”  

The role will allow McClure to continue working across a wide range of media assets, amplifying his work and reaching a diverse audience. 

Patrick Elligett, editor of The Age said: “I am thrilled to welcome Sam McClure back to The Age on a full-time basis. Sam is undoubtedly one of the best newsbreakers in sports journalism, which he has shown consistently in recent months through his Scoop column.” 

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

Wednesday, November 27, 2024

The ultimate prize in Aussie Golf is up for grabs this weekend when the ISPS HANDA Australian Open Championship is live and free from Thursday to Sunday on the 9Network and 9Now. 

Competing across Men’s, Women’s and All Abilities, our nations best golf products will take on Melbourne’s Kingston Heath and The Victoria Golf Club across four days of top flight action for $3.4 million in prize money.

After taking out the PGA Championship last weekend, emerging hot shot Elvis Smylie will see if he can topple our biggest names in consecutive weeks including Cameron Smith, Jason Day, Min Woo Lee, Marc Leishman, and Lucas Herbert.

While Australia’s highest ranked women’s golfer in the world, Hannah Green, will headline the women’s line up after catapulting herself into the top 10 following two wins on the Ladies PGA tour this year. Green is joined in the lineup by Aussies Minjee Lee and Grace Kim.

Viewers can stream every round anywhere, anytime for free on 9Now. The opening round is available on 9GemHD on Thursday, before switching to Channel 9HD from Friday through to Sunday afternoon.

ISPS Handa Australian Open 
November 28 – December 1

Follow @WWOS on Instagram
LIKE Wide World of Sports on Facebook
#9WWOS

For further information, please contact:
Ryley McKay
Senior Publicist & Digital Manager – Sport
ryley.mckay@nine.com.au

Wednesday, November 27, 2024

Acclaimed Australian journalist Ray Martin, celebrated for over five decades of award-winning storytelling, takes centre stage in the powerful new television special Tsunami: 20 Years On, airing at 7.00pm Sunday, December 8 on Channel 9 and 9Now.

Two decades later, Martin along with other remarkable Australians, embarks on an emotional journey back to the epicentre of unimaginable tragedy, uncovering incredible stories of hope and optimism in a must-watch celebration of the power of the human spirit.

The Boxing Day Tsunami that claimed over 230,000 lives across 14 countries and two continents, left 1.7 million people displaced. This special presentation explores the disaster’s aftermath, honouring heartwarming stories of resilience and compassion. 

Ray Martin was on the ground in Banda Aceh, Indonesia just days after the wave devastated the city, delivering the harrowing stories to our TV screens that brought the scale of the tragedy into Australian homes. 20 years later, Ray returns to a city rebuilt, reconnecting with survivors he met during those dark days and in the process makes an incredibly moving discovery that brings him to tears.

Among the other remarkable narratives are those of Alison Thompson, the Australian humanitarian who dedicated a year to rebuilding a tsunami-devastated community in Sri Lanka and returns for the first time to witness how the lives she touched and the community she helped have transformed over the years. We also hear from Dr. Alyssa Scurrah, whose near-miss survival inspired her to embark on an aid journey to some of Indonesia’s  most remote and devastated islands.

Australia’s response was unprecedented and deeply unifying, marked by the nation’s largest-ever peacetime operation and over $120 million in donations from everyday Australians. World Vision CEO Daniel Wordsworth reflects on this extraordinary generosity and highlights his organisation’s pivotal role in delivering aid to over one million people within 90 days, helping communities across Southeast Asia rebuild their lives.

Survivors Joe Giardina, Rebekah Giles and Les and Dianne Boardman share their incredible tales of loss and resilience, providing firsthand insights into how the tsunami forever changed their lives.

Former Prime Minister Hon. John Howard recounts Australia’s historic government response, including a record $1 billion in aid, while Melissa Doyle, Adam Gilchrist, Eddie McGuire and Jackson Warne highlight the iconic Reach Out To Asia Telethon and Tsunami Relief Cricket Match that raised over $100 million.

Brig. Georgeina Whelan, Prof. Peter Ellis and Peter Baines share powerful stories of the Australian Defence Force and forensic teams, whose critical work helped heal communities and identify victims.

Tsunami: 20 Years On is a compelling tribute to the victims, survivors, and unsung heroes of one of the world’s deadliest natural disasters. It is a reflection on how tragedy can unite us and inspire collective action, with Australian stories that continue to shape lives two decades later.

Tsunami: 20 Years On is Directed and Executive Produced by Michael Venables ADG & Graham Watson with JAM TV for The Nine Network. 

ABOUT JAM TV
JAM TV is one of Australia’s largest independent production companies, renowned for creating compelling and innovative content that captivates audiences worldwide. With a strong track record across diverse genres, including documentaries, sports, entertainment, and lifestyle programming, JAM TV prides itself on exceptional storytelling and high production. 

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

Tuesday, November 26, 2024

The 9Network are excited to announce the launch of the six exclusive BBC FAST channels, set to premiere on Tuesday, November 26 on 9Now, bringing an extensive selection of some of the UK’s most iconic and globally beloved content directly to Australian audiences, for free, on 9Now. 

Starting from November 26, viewers can immerse themselves in a wide range of genres, from factual, lifestyle, comedy and much more with BBC Comedy, BBC Food, BBC Home & Garden, BBC Earth, Top Gear and Antiques Roadshow. 

The launch marks an exciting partnership with BBC Studios, reinforcing its commitment to delivering premium UK content to Australian audiences. For the 9Network, the addition of these FAST channels to 9Now further strengthens our commitment as a leading destination to deliver quality, on-demand entertainment. 

The channels include: 

• BBC Comedy – From talk shows, to uproarious sketch shows and timeless sitcoms, serving laughter from every era of British comedy including Bottom, Famalam, Uncle, Moone Boy, Are You Being Served, Allo Allo, plus many more. 
• BBC Food – Step into the kitchen with some of the finest chefs in the British Isles, including Jamie Oliver, Nigel Slater, Rachel Allen, Hairy Bikers, Rachel Khoo, and more. Where culinary creativity meets tradition, something wonderful is always cooking. 
• BBC Home & Garden – Bringing you stunning and unique British home remodelling and garden renovations, all day, every day, inspiring you to transform your living space into a dream haven.
• BBC Earth – This pop-up natural history channel brings you heart-pounding action, mind-blowing sights and the wonder of this amazing planet we call home. Journey from the ocean’s depths to the world’s tallest peaks and explore the incredible creatures that shape our world. Some of the titles featured include Natural World, The Life of Mammals, Wild Africa, Wildlife on One, and more. 
• Top Gear – Fuel your passion with Top Gear UK and other motoring-related shows. From sliding around racetracks in shiny supercars, diving into epic challenges, to buying an old banger for an ill-fated road trip with your mates, experience and celebrate everything that’s brilliant about cars. 
• Antiques Roadshow – Discover hidden treasures and priceless stories, visiting Britain’s most sumptuous and unusual locations and discovering riches and remarkable stories in back-to-back episodes of Antiques Roadshow, as experts unveil the rich history behind cherished items.

All six BBC FAST channels will be available on 9Now from Tuesday, November 26. 

For further information, please contact:
Alessandra Muratore
9Network Publicity
alessandra.muratore@nine.com.au

Monday, November 25, 2024