Ben Avery recognised at SA Press Club Awards for gripping podcast investigation

In Just Married, Avery dives deep into the haunting 1994 murder of Anthea Bradshaw, an Adelaide woman who, after marrying her high school sweetheart, was found dead in a Brunei apartment just 96 days later. 

The podcast, told through the eyes of her grieving family, has struck a chord with listeners around the world, reaching over a million downloads and climbing into Apple Podcasts’ top ten charts in the US and Canada.

The story doesn’t end here, with new episodes on the way, as Avery continues to follow fresh leads and unravel new details. 

To join the investigation, search Just Married in your favourite podcast app.

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

Monday, November 11, 2024

9News dominates at SA Press Club Awards

9News Adelaide was also awarded the Best Long Form TV Report or Extended Coverage for the special bulletin reporting of the Marion Lockdown, As well as Highly Commended for Officer Down.

Veteran sports reporter Vicki Schwarz won the Best Sport Story in any medium for Mum’s Crusade, the inspiring story of a parent of a young footballer who died on the field, working to prevent other senseless deaths. Gus MacDonald was Commended for Olympic Selection Fight

Kelly Hughes, Diana Hayward, Piper Denholm, Jason Abbott and Matthew Pilling-Milne were awarded the Best Investigative Coverage of an Issue or Event, in any medium for their exceptional work on 9News Presents: Behind Closed Doors, an investigation into violence against women, exposing the struggles of survivors and calling for change from leaders. Ben Avery was also Commended for his work on Anthea Bradshaw Murder

In the Best Graphics (including interactive), Illustration or Cartoon category, the winner – as well as all commendations and high commendations – was scooped by the 9News Adelaide team. Iris Canda-van de Kreeke won for her work on 101, So much more. For their respective bodies of work, colleagues Deanna Keogh was Highly Commended and Zach Hamilton was Commended. 

In addition to being named Best Broadcaster, 9News Journalist Ben Avery was also awarded Best TV News Report for his work on Charlie Stevens Tragedy a story that rocked the state. Avery also won the Best Podcast Series or Episode award for his investigation into the death of South Australian woman Anthea Bradshaw, in Just Married: The Anthea Bradshaw Mystery.

The 9News Adelaide team’s other commendations and high commendations included: Ollie Haig, Commended (Best Broadcaster); Kelly Hughes, Commended (Best TV News Report for Susan) and Highly Commended (Best Community Report in any medium for Bodycam and Best Scoop of the Year for Susan); and 9News Adelaide, Highly Commended (Best TV News Report for Steven Marshall’s Second Job). 

Jeremy Pudney, Director of 9News Adelaide, said: “Everyone in the 9News Adelaide team strives every day to deliver quality news reporting to the people of South Australia. 

“It’s pleasing to see the excellent work our people have done, and the commitment to news they have shown, be recognised in this way.” 

For further information, please contact:
Sean Salter
9Network Publicity
ssalter@nine.com.au

Monday, November 11, 2024

Block history made with record winnings and just one buyer – Maddy and Charlotte win $1.65 million

The auctions kicked off with House 2, renovated by Courtney and Grant, and purchased by property investor and well-known figure on The Block, Adrian Portelli for $3.3 million. Their reserve was set at $1.95 million, earning the couple a $1.35 million profit. Next in line was House 4, renovated by Kylie and Brad, which sold to Adrian for $2.6 million. 

House 5, finished by Kristian and Mimi, had a $50,000 advantage for winning the final Clubhouse challenge, reducing their reserve to $1.9 million. They sold their house for $2.93 million to a buyer’s agent, later revealed as bidding for Adrian, resulting in a $1.03 million profit. House 3, by Ricky and Haydn, went for $2.7 million, once again to Adrian. 

Finally, House 1, renovated by Maddy and Charlotte, achieved the highest price of the day at $3.5 million, with a single knock-out bid from Adrian. With their reserve set at $1.95 million, Maddy and Charlotte walk away with an incredible $1.55 million profit, plus the $100,000 grand prize.

“We are just so grateful, and it’s a very surreal feeling,” said Maddy. “You can’t anticipate how something like The Block will end, but it is the perfect ending for us. I think there is such a special relationship with sisters, and I’m so proud of both of us and how hard we worked.”

Charlotte added, “To end The Block on such a high note is so special. We never thought it would go like this. I could not have had this experience with anyone else but Maddy. We have been in this from the beginning, so it’s an incredible feeling for both of us now.”

Maddy and Charlotte concluded: “This has been the experience of a lifetime. Winning this much money is life-changing for us. We can’t believe Adrian loved our house as much as we do!”

“It’s a fantastic result,” said host Scott Cam. “I’m so pleased for the girls to win it, and they deserve it. All of the houses have sold, and it’s a fantastic way to finish the 20th season of the show, with all five couples making some decent coin.”

Julian CressThe Block’s Executive Producer, added: “I’m so excited for all of our contestants who have worked so hard and I’m incredibly proud of Maddy and Charlotte, our youngest team ever to appear on the show. They didn’t arrive until week 5 and they’ve taken out the win. It’s a great Block story, a fairytale ending and they are an inspiration to all young women.”

In a first for The Block, Adrian Portelli secured all five properties. Portelli stunned the crowd when he revealed, post-auction, that he had bought every home on the show, directly or through his buyer’s agent. Following the extraordinary reveal, Portelli then confirmed that he would not be returning next season, making this his grand finale on the show and added that he wanted to go out with a bang. 

With a combined total of $5.43 million in winnings, this year’s contestants secured the highest amount in the history ofThe Block. Over its 20 seasons, the show has now awarded an incredible $39,627,139.63 in total winnings.

THE BLOCK 2024 – AUCTION RESULTS

PREVIOUS BLOCK WINNERS
2003 – BONDI – Adam & Fiona, $256,000
2004 – MANLY – Jamie & Andrew, $178,000
2010 – VAUCLUSE – John & Neisha, $305,000
2011 – RICHMOND – Polly & Waz, $115,000
2012 – SOUTH MELBOURNE – Brad & Lara, $606,000
2013 – ALL STARS (BONDI) – Phil & Amity, $395,000
2013 – SKY HIGH (SOUTH MELBOURNE) – Alisa & Lysandra, $395,000
2014 – FANS v FAVES (ALBERT PARK) – Steve & Chantelle, $736,000
2014 – GLASSHOUSE (PRAHRAN) – Shannon & Simon, $435,000
2015 – TRIPLE THREAT (SOUTH YARRA) – Darren & Deanne, $935,000
2015 – THE BLOCKTAGON (SOUTH YARRA) – Dean & Shay, $755,000
2016 – PORT MELBOURNE – Will & Karlie, $815,000
2017 – ELSTERNWICK – Josh & Elyse, $547,000
2018 – GATWICK (ST KILDA) – Hayden & Sara, $645,000
2019 – OSLO (ST KILDA) – Tess & Luke, $730,000
2020 – BRIGHTON – Jimmy & Tam, $1,066,000 
2021 – FANS v FAVES (HAMPTON) – Mitch & Mark, $744,444
2022 – TREE CHANGE (GISBORNE) – Omar & Oz, $1,686,666.66
2023 – HAMPTON EAST – Steph & Gian, $1,750,000

For further information, please contact:
Christabel Huynh
9Network Publicity 
christabel.huynh@nine.com.au

Monday, November 11, 2024

The road to ruin stops here – all new RBT

Narrated by Andrew Daddo, the new series will once again capture the drama and danger of daily police work – from major roadside drink-driving operations and mobile breath testing to high-speed pursuits and dealing with drivers under the influence of drugs.

RBT balances the seriousness of offences with the humour of characters and situations as it follows the thin blue line and drivers through Victoria and New South Wales.

In the season premiere, Mohammed claims he is part of an unbelievable medical research program using methamphetamine to cure Covid. If you don’t believe him, he says you can ask the prime minister. Troy,44, is a man who knows his limits and claims he routinely drinks just the right amount of mid-strength beer to stay under the limit, but will Troy’s technique save him from losing his licence? And 27-year-old Karma, a good guy, has a habit of making bad decisions. The latest one was deciding to drive after downing three cold beers while he spent the afternoon fishing. Will the roadside testing prove to be bad karma?

RBT is produced by Endemol Shine Australia (A Banijay company) for the 9Network.

RBT
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11, AT 7.30PM ON CHANNEL 9 AND 9NOW

For further information, please contact:
Sean Salter
9Network Publicity
ssalter@nine.com.au

Friday, November 8, 2024

A zoo-perb season awaits! Taronga: Who’s Who in the Zoo returns for season five

This observational documentary series opens the doors to two of Australia’s most renowned zoos – Taronga Zoo in Sydney and Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo – showcasing the inspiring work of keepers, vets, scientists and conservationists as they toil around the clock to care for wildlife.

Narrated by Australian actress Virginia Gay, each episode presents an intimate look at Taronga’s furry, scaly and feathered residents, as well as the passionate people who dedicate their lives to caring for them.

This season, embark on an exciting journey as we follow the koala monitoring program in stunning New South Wales bushland, witness the unveiling of a revolutionary platypus rescue facility at Western Plains Zoo and get up close with the extraordinary animals that call Taronga home.

The team goes to incredible lengths to ensure the health and happiness of every animal, from Gracie, the adorable koala joey, to Maya, the feisty lioness. Viewers will also get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at life-saving veterinary procedures, from health checks on playful chimpanzees to surgeries on hippos and even the tiniest of penguins.

Follow the wonder of wildlife as never before – join us for an unforgettable season that highlights the heartwarming and captivating efforts of Australia’s zoos.

Taronga: Who’s Who In The Zoo is produced by McAvoy Media for the 9Network. 

TARONGA: WHO’S WHO IN THE ZOO SEASON 5
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13, AT 7.30PM ON CHANNEL 9 AND 9NOW

For further information, please contact:
Aimee Ball
9Network Publicity 
aimee.ball@nine.com.au

Thursday, November 7, 2024

Ray Hadley announces retirement

From his beginnings in 1981 as a traffic reporter alongside the iconic Gary O’Callaghan on 2UE, Ray’s journey in radio has been defined by passion, dedication, and an unwavering connection with his audience. By 1982, Hadley was calling Rugby League matches and various racing meets, marking the start of a legendary sports broadcasting career. By 1983, he was a full-time fixture at 2UE, remaining there for 19 years before transitioning to 2GB in 2001, where he continued to break new ground.

On March 4, 2002, The Ray Hadley Morning Show first went to air. Over the next 21 years, Hadley amassed 160 consecutive ratings wins – a record that is unlikely to ever be broken. 

Ray’s voice has become synonymous with some of the most memorable moments in Australian sports history. As a founding member of The Continuous Call Team in 1987, Ray has called 99 State of Origin games, 35 Rugby League Grand Finals, and thousands of club games. His international accomplishments include commentating at three Rugby World Cups and seven Olympic Games, including this year in Paris. Earlier in 2024, the Sydney Football Stadium honoured Hadley’s contribution to sports with the unveiling of The Ray Hadley Commentary Box.

Hadley remains the most decorated radio host in Australian Commercial Radio Award (ACRA) history, with 35 awards and a 2017 induction into the ACRA Hall of Fame. In 2003, his contributions were further recognised with a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM), celebrating his commitment to rugby league and extensive fundraising efforts for charities.

Beyond sport and talkback, Hadley’s influence has extended into the world of music. The Ray Hadley Country Music Countdown has spotlighted emerging talent in Australian country music, running for an impressive 573 episodes over 16 years. This year, Hadley received the Country Music Capital Award at the Golden Guitar Awards, honouring his steadfast support for the genre.

Hadley added, “I’ve had the ride of my life at 2GB for more than 23 years, firstly under the ownership of John Singleton and more recently with Nine Entertainment and Nine Radio. I leave the network with me owing 2GB everything for my success and longevity. I wish all my colleagues continued success.” 

Nine Radio’s Managing Director, Tom Malone said, “We’ll likely never see another broadcaster of Ray’s versatility, longevity and ratings success. While the 2GB listeners will miss that familiar jingle and voice at 9am every day, I’m sure they wish Ray all the best in retirement with Sophie and the family.” 

Hadley’s final day on air will be Friday, 13 December, 2024.

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

Thursday, November 7, 2024

Huge year-on-year growth for Nine’s broadcast of the Melbourne Cup

Following the race, the MELBOURNE CUP – PRESENTATION held strong with a National Total TV Average Audience of 1.586 million, up 23% year-on-year.

Additionally, the MELBOURNE CUP – MOUNTING YARD segment recorded a National Total TV Average Audience of 1.347 million, a remarkable 21.5% rise from last year’s figures.

Across the entire day, Nine’s broadcast of the Melbourne Cup achieved a National Total TV Reach of 3.7 million – an impressive 30.4% increase on last year’s broadcast.

The highlight of the day was the thrilling upset by Knight’s Choice, the 100-to-1 outsider, whose victory stunned the racing world. Ridden by Queensland-based, Irish-born jockey Robbie Dolan, Knight’s Choice delivered a stunning performance. Dolan, known not only for his skill on the track but also for his vocal talent as a contestant on The Voice, showcased his resilience and expertise in the saddle, making this a Melbourne Cup to remember.

Brent Williams, Director of Sport for the 9Network, reflected on the success of the broadcast and the excitement of the event:

“This year’s Lexus Melbourne Cup brought viewers a truly unforgettable story with Knight’s Choice and Robbie Dolan’s extraordinary win. The incredible ratings highlight Australia’s love for the Melbourne Cup and Nine’s commitment to bringing the best live sports experience to fans across the country. We’re proud to have shared all the excitement and drama of Cup Day with our audience.”

Nine’s broadcast of the Melbourne Cup is  a highlight of the Australian sporting calendar, connecting viewers with the thrill of the race and the celebration of one of the nation’s most cherished events.

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

Wednesday, November 6, 2024

Pacific Championships Final live and free on the 9Network

Nine’s Wide World of Sports will include expert commentary, in-depth analysis, ensuring that viewers don’t miss a moment of the action.

Hosted by Danika Mason, former Australian captains Andrew Johns, Brad Fittler, plus Kangaroos legends Billy Slater, Paul Gallen international rugby league representative Ruan Sims, commentators Mat Thompson, Brenton Speed and Marlee Silva.

BROADCAST SCHEDULE

Australia Jillaroos v New Zealand Kiwi Ferns
Sydney            1.45pm LIVE and FREE, Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now
Brisbane          12.45pm LIVE and FREE, Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now
Melbourne       1.45pm LIVE and FREE, Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now
Adelaide          1.15pm LIVE and FREE, 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now
Perth               10.45pm LIVE and FREE, 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now

Australia Kangaroos v Tonga 
Sydney            3.50pm LIVE and FREE, Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now
Brisbane          2.50pm LIVE and FREE, Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now
Melbourne       3.50pm LIVE and FREE,Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now
Adelaide          3.20pm LIVE and FREE, 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now
Perth               12.50pm LIVE and FREE, 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now

New Zealand Kiwis v PNG Kumuls
Sydney            6.00pm LIVE and FREE, 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now
Brisbane          5.00pm LIVE and FREE, 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now
Melbourne       6.00pm LIVE and FREE, 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now
Adelaide          5.30pm LIVE and FREE, 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now
Perth               3.00pm LIVE and FREE, 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now

Wednesday, November 6, 2024

The care behind the curtain

See firsthand in this fly-on-the-wall series the challenges and rewards that come with a career in trauma medicine. We follow the stories of the patients through the eyes of the hospital heroes, revealing the realities of working in a hectic hospital emergency department. 

The Emergency team of dedicated doctors, nurses and first responders from previous series return: Doctors Bjorn, Emma, George, Jonathan, Luke, Mark, Martin, Michael, Michelle, Mya, Terry, Andrew, and Nurse Practitioner Paul. They are joined in the gripping new season by several new faces: Dr Assiya Halid, Dr Tinnie Chang, Dr Rebecca Hughes, Dr Tristan Harding, Dr Ilya Kardailsky, and Nurses Lucy Stranger, Kiara Maieron, Lucy Thomas, Tanya Wallace and Babina Shah Thakuri.

The heartwarming new series skilfully blends drama with glimpses of humour, hope and humanity as it showcases the lives of the dedicated medical professionals under the scrubs, who work tirelessly to care for people during the most vulnerable time of their lives. 

In the season five premiere, our doctors see the worst ketamine reaction they’ve ever seen. Dr Emma West fears a motor-cross rider has life-changing injuries after coming off her bike. Time is critical as Dr Scott Taylor’s unresponsive patient deteriorates with a suspected brain bleed. Dr Tristan Harding must straighten a young farmer’s severely dislocated ankle before the blood supply cuts off. And Dr Mya Cubitt treats a cheerful 103-year-old legend’s leg for a nasty infection.

Emergency is produced by WTFN for the 9Network.

EMERGENCY
SEASON FIVE PREMIERE
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7, AT 8.30PM ON CHANNEL 9 AND 9NOW

For further information, please contact:
Sean Salter
9Network Publicity
ssalter@nine.com.au

Monday, November 4, 2024

Bumper ratings for Nine’s broadcast of Derby Day

The second session kept the momentum going, with a National Total TV Reach of 879,000 – up by an impressive 167% compared to the previous year. This session recorded a National Total TV Average Audience of 249,000, marking a 115% increase on last year’s figures.

Viewers tuned in to witness Goldrush Guru’s thrilling victory in the main race, with jockey Jamie Kah delivering a masterful ride to secure the win. The performance not only captivated racing fans but underscored the excitement of the Melbourne Cup Carnival, with Kah’s expert skills and Goldrush Guru’s powerful finish adding to the drama of the day.

Brent Williams, Director of Sport for the 9Network, expressed his enthusiasm over the broadcast’s success:
“These exceptional ratings reflect our ongoing commitment to delivering the best coverage of one of Australia’s most beloved sporting events. Penfolds Victoria Derby Day provided some unforgettable moments, especially with Jamie Kah’s incredible ride on Goldrush Guru. We’re thrilled that so many viewers joined us to experience all the excitement and drama as part of Nine’s comprehensive Melbourne Cup Carnival coverage.”

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

Monday, November 4, 2024