Archives: Media Releases

The thrilling Ampol Women’s State of Origin series will take its second turn when Game II is exclusive, live and free to Channel 9HD and 9Now, on Thursday, June 6, at 7.30pm AEST. 

After a sizzling attacking performance in their opening game win, the New South Wales Sky Blues will bring an unchanged lineup to clinch the series in front of a sold-out home crowd in Newcastle.

Ready to put on a show will fleet-footed Sky Blues backs Jaime Chapman, Emma Tonegato and Isabelle Kelly, while experienced forwards Millie Elliot (nee Boyle), Kezie Apps and Yasmin Clydsdale look to get the upper hand in what poses as a hostile encounter.

The legend of Origin football famously reminds us that you can never count the Queensland Maroons out. This time their captain, Ali Brigginshaw, and NRLW Dally M Medallist, Tamika Upton, are on hand to plot another famous Queensland underdog win in enemy territory.  

Exclusive coverage on Nine’s Wide World of Sports will be hosted by Emma Lawrence, assisted by rugby league experts Phil Gould, Allana Ferguson, commentator Peter Psaltis and Darren Lockyer, with Marlee Silva on the sideline.

AMPOL WOMEN’S STATE OF ORIGIN II – NEW SOUTH WALES v QUEENSLAND
Thursday, June 6 – Newcastle, NSW

Sydney                 7.30pm LIVE on Channel 9HD and 9Now
Brisbane               7.30pm LIVE on Channel 9HD and 9Now
Melbourne            7.30pm LIVE on Channel 9HD and 9Now
Adelaide               7.00pm LIVE on 9GemHD and 9Now
Perth                     5.30pm LIVE on 9GemHD and 9Now

WOMEN’S STATE OF ORIGIN GAME II
EXCLUSIVE LIVE AND FREE
THURSDAY, JUNE 6, AT 7.30PM

Sunday, June 2, 2024

It’s New South Wales vs Queensland in the most heated rivalry in Australian sport when the 2024 Ampol State of Origin series begins Exclusive, Live and Free on Channel 9HD and 9Now on Wednesday, June 5, at 7.00pm AEST.

The Queensland Maroons, unbeaten with coach Billy Slater at the helm, this year face a reshaped NSW Blues side under debut Origin coach Michael Maguire, entering the three-game series with a fresh approach. 

Maguire has made some big selection decisions, appointing a new captain in Jake Trbojevic, bringing six debutants into an overhauled lineup that includes Panthers triple-premiership winning fullback Dylan Edwards, and entrusting Dally Medal winner Nicho Hynes with the crucial halfback position.

Queensland’s men in Maroon will roll with a familiar, star-studded backline that boasts the brilliance of Reece Walsh, captain Daly Cherry-Evans, Xavier Coates and Hamiso Tabui-Fidow, mixed with Australian international forwards Pat Carrigan, Reuben Cotter and Lindsay Collins.

The 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, Brad Fittler, Johnathan Thurston, Phil Gould, Darren Lockyer, Paul Vautin, Paul Gallen and Allana Ferguson on hand to dissect the on-field action.

PLUS, in a special guest commentary appearance, injured Queensland playmaker Cameron Munster will join Nine’s exclusive State of Origin coverage, for pre-match, half time and post-game expert comments.

On the sideline, Danika Mason is joined by Fittler and Lockyer, with Emma Lawrence outside the venue to soak up the pre-match atmosphere at Accor Stadium.

In commentary for Origin I is Mathew Thompson, who will be joined by two of the greatest NSW and Queensland representatives ever, Andrew Johns and Cameron Smith. 

9Now will stream the game live with three additional second-screen streams to choose from, ensuring viewers don’t miss a thing:

• Player Cam QLD – Reece Walsh
• Player Cam NSW – Nicho Hynes
• Spidercam – An eagle-eye view of play to take you even 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.

STATE OF ORIGIN I – NEW SOUTH WALES v QUEENSLAND 
Wednesday, June 5 – LIVE from Accor Stadium, Sydney 
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 9Go!HD, 7.00pm on Channel 9HD and 9Now
Perth                    5.00pm LIVE on 9Go!HD, 5.30pm on Channel 9HD and 9Now

Origin Broadcast Stats

• More than 60 broadcast cameras
• Over 140 broadcast crew
• 275 combined Origin games played by Channel 9’s commentary team plus 42 coached
• Broadcast to more than 50 countries worldwide

100% FOOTY: ORIGIN SPECIAL – 7.30pm LIVE on 9Now, Monday, June 3. 
The home of the strongest opinions in rugby league from the people who count. Phil Gould with Paul Gallen, journalist Danny Weidler and host James Bracey.

STATE OF ORIGIN I
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 5, AT 7.00PM
EXCLUSIVE, LIVE AND FREE
CHANNEL 9HD, STREAM FREE ON 9NOW

Sunday, June 2, 2024

THE TITANS OF WORLD FOOTBALL BATTLE FOR THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE CROWN
STAN SPORT, AD-FREE, LIVE AND ON-DEMAND IN 4K UHD

The best club football team in Europe will be crowned when Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund meet in the UEFA Champions League Final, live and free on 9Go! on Sunday, June 2, from 4.15am.

This mouthwatering final pits two giants of world football against each other, where the champion will be crowned at London’s historic Wembley Stadium for a record eighth time. 

In a David and Goliath match-up, 14-time European champions Real Madrid – who have the most titles in UEFA history – face German Bundesliga club Borussia Dortmund, who are out to cause an upset. 

Real Madrid are heavy favourites after a season of dominance, both at home where they cruised to another Spanish La Liga title, and in Europe, storming to the Champions League final. They are driven by standout stars Vinicius Jr and Toni Kroos, alongside Jude Bellingham in his first season at Real Madrid after ironically transferring from their Champions League rival. 

Dortmund are UEFA’s Cinderella story. Despite finishing fifth in the Bundesliga, they need to defeat Real Madrid in order to return for next season’s UEFA competition. On their path to Wembley they have conquered top-tier teams including Paris Saint-Germain, Atletico Madrid and AC Milan. 

Covering all the action will be host Max Rushden alongside Socceroos legends and expert commentators Mark Bosnich, and Craig Foster.

Joining Foster live from London will be legendary football commentator Martin Tyler, for special guest comments throughout the broadcast.

English Premier League winner Mark Bosnich said: “It’s the underdogs versus the top dogs when Borussia Dortmund meet Real Madrid. 

“Dortmund have one previous title, in 1997, and Real Madrid have a record 14 titles. The contrasts could not be more stark, but the black and yellow have a chance to pull off a famous upset against the Kings of Europe.”

Bozza’s fun facts:

• Jude Bellingham signed for Real Madrid from Dortmund at the start of the season for $147 million and has scored 23 goals with 12 assists from 41 games in all competitions.
• Dortmund will be playing in their third final. The last one was also at Wembley in 2013 where they lost 1-2 to Bayern Munich.

Lenny Kravitz will be the pre-match entertainment for the UEFA final.

BROADCAST GUIDE

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL – BORUSSIA DORTMUND v REAL MADRID
Sunday, June 2
LIVE from Wembley, London

Syd/ Bris/Melb             4.15am LIVE on 9Go! and Stan Sport
Adelaide                      3.45am LIVE on 9Go! and Stan Sport
Perth                           2.15pm LIVE on 9Go! and Stan Sport

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL
BEGINS SUNDAY, JUNE 2, AT 4.15AM 
WATCH ON 9G0, STREAM ON 9NOW

STREAMING AD-FREE, LIVE & ON DEMAND IN 4K UHD ON STAN SPORT

#9WWOS
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Thursday, May 30, 2024

Even more listeners are tuning into 9Podcasts’ growing premium podcast slate, with Triton data from April 2024 revealing a 11% MoM uptick in listeners and a 5% rise in downloads – bolstering Nine’s commitment to delivering high-quality, entertaining and engaging content that resonates with Australians.

The surge in listeners  across Nine’s premium podcast content is underpinned by Nine’s strength in News and Sport, coupled with new programs in key areas of growth, including a renewed commitment to journalistic podcasts. 

The Missing Campers Trial podcast – a production from the teams at 9News, The Age and 9Podcasts – has taken listeners inside the courtroom for the high-profile trial of Gregory Lynn, accused of murdering campers Russell Hill and Carol Clay.

Episodes have been released in real time, revealing every important detail as the evidence unfolds, examining key moments and bringing together the best in Nine’s journalism, audio and video collaboration to cover the unfathomable crimes on trial in Victoria’s highest court. 

9Podcasts has also seen impressive growth in its lifestyle podcasts, offering diverse and engaging programs appealing to defined audiences including Prime Time with Bec Wilson — an empowering series that provides practical advice and inspiration for making the most of your middle years; Russel Howcroft’s AdMission, offering expert insights into the advertising and marketing industry; and Try Before You Die with Eliza and Liberty Pasche as they explore bucket-list experiences and daring activities, encouraging listeners to step outside their comfort zone.

APRIL 2024	DOWNLOADS	LISTENERS	HOURS
Nine Podcasts	3,494,613	1,397,560	1,569,389
MoM Change	+5%	+11%	+7%

Nine’s Head of Podcasts and Digital Content, Mia Stern said: “9Podcasts is committed to showcasing the richness and diversity of Australian stories, ensuring that our listeners have access to content that is not only entertaining but also reflective of their own experiences and culture.” 

“We can see the positive impact this continues to have on our audience growth, as more listeners are discovering new programs and listening for longer each month, creating a rich and varied environment for marketers and advertisers.”

Source: Triton Podcast Metrics, April 1-30 2024, Downloads, Listeners, Unless otherwise specified

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

Thursday, May 30, 2024

Mining magnate Gina Rinehart has topped the 2024 Financial Review Rich List for the fifth consecutive year, breaking through the $40 billion barrier for the first time – up $3 billion from last year.

With Australia’s wealthiest 200 now controlling $625 billion – up 11 per cent from last year – Rinehart’s estimated rise in wealth is driven by higher valuations across the mining sector. While mining and property are Rich List mainstays [five of the top 10 fortunes are built on mining], the tech sector has made a comeback this year and is growing its share of the pie faster than any other sector.  

This year marks the 41st Rich List, first published in BRW Magazine in 1983 when the total worth of Australia’s wealthiest people was $4.6 billion and it took just $10 million to make the list. It now takes $718 million to make the Rich List.

Rinehart’s wealth is $14 billion more than her closest rival – property scion Harry Triguboff, who is worth an estimated $26.49 billion.   

But it is the tech sector that is the story of 2024, with the sector responsible for $108.1 billion of this year’s list. In 2014, there were no technologists in the Rich List’s Top 10. Now, there are four: Mike Cannon-Brookes  (who’s listed in third spot alongside Annie Cannon-Brookes in light of their separation, although their wealth of $24.38 billion is still combined as they are yet to split assets), Scott Farquhar (No.5 worth $22.88 billion) and Canva’s Melanie Perkins and Cliff Obrecht (No.10 worth $13.62 billion).

In total, 28 technologists have made the Rich List, up from 24 last year – including fintech entrepreneur Jack Zhang and crypto gambling billionaires Ed Craven and Tim Heath. The tech sector is also responsible for some of the notable debutants. They include three newly discovered billionaires – Estonian-based online gaming mogul Tim Heath, the founder of CoinSpot cryptocurrency exchange, Russell Wilson, and the Lamborghini-loving founder of the LMCT+ online promotions business, Adrian Portelli.

All up, there are 11 new individuals or couples on this year’s Rich List including Simon Dyer and his family, who brought mattress brand Sealy to Australia, and today also have a range of joint ventures with New York Stock Exchange-listed Tempur Sealy. Also making the list for the first time is Queensland’sMurphy family, whose Canstruct earned $1.82 billion over five years as the long-term operator of the federal government’s offshore detention centre in Nauru.

Based on the Financial Review’s unrivalled database, the Rich List includes 13 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.12) whose net worth increased 51 per cent year-on-year to $11.3 billion, and Alan Wilson & family (No.13) from plumbing giant Reece, whose wealth rose 63 per cent to $10.6 billion. NSW remains home to more Rich Listers – 80 in total – than any other state. 

Female representation has increased from 36 last year to 41 this year. Some of that is due to the spectacular rise of entrepreneurs like Nicky and Simone Zimmermann, worth a combined $792 million (No.180). 

Rich List co-editor Yolanda Redrup said: “The Rich List named its first two billionaires in 1987 – Robert Holmes a Court ($1.4 billion) and Kerry Packer ($1.3 billion) – now, there are 150 Australians and their families who have achieved this feat. This highlights the entrepreneurial spirit and hard work of the members of this list.

“There are nine Rich Listers who have appeared on every list since 1984, and many are household names, but the next decade could be one of changing faces, as the mean age nears 70 and billions of dollars are set to be passed onto the next generation.”

Rich List co-editor Michael Bailey said new financial reporting rules introduced by the federal government last year made this the most comprehensive Rich List ever.

“Major private companies previously exempt from publicly lodging financial reports, like Bruce Gordon’s WIN Television, ‘Caravan King’ Gerry Ryan’s Jayco, and ethanol giant Dick Honan’s Manildra, all had to reveal their profits for the first time – in some cases materially changing their estimated valuationsy.”

TOP 10 (worth a collective $222.6 billion)
1. Gina Rinehart – $40.61 billion – Mining
2. Harry Triguboff – $26.49 billion – Property
3. Mike Cannon-Brookes & Annie Cannon-Brookes – $24.38 billion – Technology
4. Anthony Pratt & family – $23.30 billion – Manufacturing
5. Scott Farquhar – $22.88 billion – Technology
6. Clive Palmer – $22.75 billion – Mining
7. Nicola Forrest – $16.92 billion – Mining
8. Andrew Forrest – $16.76 billion – Mining
9. Ivan Glasenberg – $14.86 billion – Mining
10. Melanie Perkins and Cliff Obrecht – $13.62 billion – Technology

STATE BY NUMBERS 
1. NSW – 80 Rich Listers
2. VIC – 57
3. QLD –  21
4. WA – 19
5. SA – 3
6. ACT – 2
7. NT – 1 
8. 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. High res images of AFR Magazine Rich List cover HERE

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

Thursday, May 30, 2024

Every family has its quirks. Whether it’s much-loved traditions, mortifying memories or bittersweet bumps in the road, families aren’t just bonded by blood but by the chaotic moments which colour the lineage. It’s something that no amount of fame can change. Just ask these two… 

The Apple and The Tree is a new podcast hosted by iconic Aussie father and son duo, Richard and Christian Wilkins, taking listeners behind the closed doors of some of Australia’s best known and well-loved families. 

Some of the famous relos sitting down for a chat include father and son music legends Jimmy Barnes and David Campbell; popstar twins Jess and Lisa Origliasso (aka The Veronicas); the mega multi-hyphenate siblings Alli and Cody Simpson, and renowned cricketing brothers Brett and Shane Lee.

By challenging the idea of the ‘picture-perfect’ famous household, this podcast embraces the uniqueness of family through unfiltered, refreshingly real and relatable conversations. In each episode, Richard and Christian get personal with the familial duos, exploring their roots, family dynamics, quirks and values, with a good smattering of embarrassing stories along the way – after all, no one knows you quite like your family. 

From dreadful dad jokes, to awkward conversations shared at the dinner table, The Apple and The Tree shows that no matter what level of fame you’ve attained, family relationships and dynamics remain the same. 

Richard Wilkins said, “I’m so excited about this project. Everyone who knows me will acknowledge that my family is everything to me, and when Christian suggested that he and I should create a podcast where we talk to other family combinations, it was a total no-brainer! There will be plenty of tears and laughter and a whole lot of love as some of our favourite people join us on The Apple & The Tree.” 

Christian Wilkins said, “Anyone that’s had the pleasure of working with my Dad knows that he’s the best in the business. For years growing up I’d be sitting in the corner as he interviews the world’s biggest stars and was always in awe of his professionalism, kindness and knowledge. Naturally I wanted to create an opportunity where I’d be able to work alongside him and experience the incredible passion he has for entertainment firsthand.” 

“The only thing better than getting to do what you love, is getting to do it with the people you love too, and hopefully that’s exactly what we bring to people, from our home, too theirs (or their car, bus ride, workplace, gym or wherever else they listen to their podcasts.” 

The Apple and The Tree launches tomorrow, Thursday 30 May, with episodes dropping every Thursday on 9Now and everywhere you get your podcasts. 

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

Wednesday, May 29, 2024

Hold on to your bouquet as Married at First Sight New Zealand returns next month for a brand-new season, fast-tracked and streaming exclusively and free for Australian viewers on 9Now from June 2 at 4.00pm AEST, with new episodes dropping Sunday – Tuesday.

The New Zealand version of the world’s greatest marriage experiment show, is back for its fourth season, with more fiery drama and explosive love stories.

And in exciting news for fans, two new experts are joining the fold.

MAFS Australia legend John Aiken will be the relationship expert poised to help brides and grooms find love, while bringing his unique flair of holding participants to account. Aiken will be joined by relationship and sex therapist Jo Robertson, who has over 14 years of experience and will bring a different dynamic to the duo, offering participants practical strategies and conversations about chemistry, intimacy and affection.

John Aiken said: “I’m excited to be a part of the fresh relaunch of MAFS NZ. After being involved for over a decade with the Australian version, I can now bring all of my lessons and insights to Kiwi singles looking for love. I spent a good deal of time growing up in New Zealand and I married a Kiwi, so I feel very connected to the country and its diverse population.

“MAFS NZ will have the similar mix of drama, love and relationship learning that the audience loves. I think those who tune in will really invest in the couples and watch with interest how they navigate all the challenges.”

The eight brides and grooms walking down the aisle and taking the major leap of faith in this new season are:

Brides: Account Manager/Healing Intuitive, Madeleine (37); Content Creator, Samatha (26); Car Sales Representative, Kara (33); and Marketing Professional, Stephanie (31).

Grooms: Auctioneer and Business Owner, Michael (36); Brewer, Piripi (28); Primary School Teacher, James (31); and Aviation Officer, Nathaniel (30).

MEET THE CAST

Pop the champagne, get your popcorn ready and cosy up for your MAFS NZ fix.

MARRIED AT FIRST SIGHT NEW ZEALAND 2024
PREMIERES SUNDAY, JUNE 2 AT 4.00PM AEST
AVAILABLE TO STREAM FOR FREE ON 9NOW

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

Wednesday, May 29, 2024

With cost of living pressures and rising house prices, more than ever Australians are looking to secure their financial future by focusing on their superannuation. 

Now, a new editorial series from the Money experts at The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, Brisbane Times and WAtoday take readers step-by-step through how to create the strongest possible super balance. 

The six-part Super Fit series – with launch partner Colonial First State – covers everything from planning how much you’ll need to retire comfortably, which funds to use, the best allocation at each age, how and when to make additional contributions and how to spend in retirement. 

The specially-commissioned Super Fit stories appear in the Money section in the Wednesday editions of the Herald and The Age until June 26, and are also housed in a digital collection across the four masthead websites along with some other informative superannuation stories by prominent Money experts such as John Collett, Bec Wilson and Paul Benson.

For many people, their mandatory superannuation investment will be the largest asset they will have in their lifetime. On July 1 the rate that workplaces need to pay employees will increase to 11.5 per cent of their salary, rising to 12 per cent by July 2025. 

For young workers embarking on their career through to people approaching retirement, it’s never too late to make sure your superannuation is as healthy as possible. 

Super Fit features an interactive superannuation calculator which allows our curious audience to look to the future and see what their nest egg will look like in five, 10, 15, 20 years and beyond. 

Money Editor Dominic Powell says: “Getting your super in top shape is one of the most crucial things you can do to ensure a comfortable retirement, yet it’s something many of us don’t think about until it’s too late. Small changes now – like switching funds or making an extra contribution – could mean thousands of extra dollars in your pocket later in life.

“If you’re someone who doesn’t know where to start, Super Fit will help you take the first steps on this journey, and answer any questions you have about the most important investment you’ll (probably) ever make.”

James McCluskie, Client Director Finance & Technology, says: “Growing wealth responsibly and prioritising financial wellbeing and stability are front of mind with our readership. Super Fit presents the perfect platform for our superannuation clients. Allowing them to position themselves as a relatable fund driving superior outcomes for their current and future members that align with our readership’s values.”

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

Wednesday, May 29, 2024

Grand Slam tennis is back on the renowned clay courts of Roland Garros in Paris, where the best in the world will compete at the French Open starting Sunday, May 26, live and free on 9GemHD and to stream on 9Now.

In the 128th edition of Roland Garros, Nine’s exclusive coverage will showcase 15 days of competition and calling the action will be Todd Woodbridge, Jelena Dokic, Samantha Stosur and Brenton Speed for the Wide World of Sports.

Fourteen-time French Open champion Rafael Nadal is expected to make his final appearance on the courts he has dominated in a storied career. An ominous lineup will be gunning for their own glory with Novak Djokovic, Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev, fresh from winning the Italian Open, all ranked in the top four.

Australia will have its highest men’s representation at Roland Garros since 1999 as our hopes lie with Alex de Minaur (world No.11), Jordan Thompson (No.37), Alexei Popyrin (No.51) and Chris O’Connell (No.64), along with Alexander Vukic, Rinky Hijikata, Max Purcell, Thanasi Kokkinakis and Adam Walton (wildcard).

In the women’s draw, Aussies Daria Saville and Ajla Tomljanovic will take on a tough field headed by the top three players in the world: Iga Swiatek, Aryna Sabalenka and Coco Gauff.

BROADCAST GUIDE

Roland Garros 2024
Sunday May 26 to Sunday June 9, live and free on 9GemHD and 9Now.

ROLAND GARROS 2024
BEGINS SUNDAY MARCH 26 AT 6.30PM 
WATCH ON 9GEMHD, STREAM ON 9NOW

EVERY MATCH STREAMING AD-FREE, LIVE & ON DEMAND WITH
FOUR COURTS IN 4K UHD ON STAN SPORT

Friday, May 24, 2024