Archives: Media Releases

Channel 9’s acclaimed investigative journalism program, Under Investigation with Liz Hayes, was honoured with the prestigious Media Diversity Australia Award for its groundbreaking episode, Shots Fired, at last night’s 2024 Mid-Year Celebration of Journalism, hosted by the Walkley Foundation.

The award celebrates journalists who are making an outstanding contribution through their reporting on diverse people or issues in Australia, and this is the first time any commercial television network has been recognised in this category.

Shots Fired investigated one of Australia’s most contentious criminal cases, involving the shooting of Kumanjayi Walker by former Northern Territory police officer Zachary Rolfe. This tragic incident sparked national debate and scrutiny. Under Investigation revisited the events of that fateful night, providing viewers with unprecedented access to police bodycam footage, exclusive interviews with key figures, including the Crown Prosecutor, community elders, and eyewitnesses.

The episode posed critical questions about the preventability of Walker’s death and explored complex issues of justice, race and policing in First Nations communities.

Recognised by the Walkley Foundation, the judges celebrated the episode for telling a “complex story in a clear, honest and nuanced way for a broad audience. The journalism is relational, involving respected community voices and key players, using a structure that centres on listening and talking to achieve greater understanding. At a time when audiences are avoiding traditional-style adversarial news, Shots Fired stands out.”

Liz Hayes said: “It’s incredibly rewarding to be acknowledged, especially given our small yet mighty team at Under Investigation. Our mission is unwavering: to uncover the truth behind challenging and significant cases.

“Shots Fired was a particularly challenging and sensitive episode for us, so receiving this award is a profound honour that truly celebrates the relentless effort and dedication of our entire team. At UI, we’re committed to leaving no stone unturned, and we’re eager to continue this important work.”

Executive Producer of UI, Gareth Harvey, said: “This is a fantastic achievement for our program and our talented team. It’s an immense privilege for Under Investigation, a leader in investigative journalism programming, to be awarded with the Media Diversity Australia Award – the first time for any commercial television network.

“This recognition is a testament to the dedication of everyone involved. Producing this program is incredibly rewarding and has a ripple effect beyond each episode, marking an even greater achievement.”

For further information, please contact:
Claudine Blondeau
Communications Manager, Nine Queensland
cblondeau@nine.com.au

Friday, June 21, 2024

Nine’s Director of News and Current Affairs, Fiona Dear, has announced the appointment of Amy McCarthy as the new Executive Producer of A Current Affair.

McCarthy steps into her new role with a wealth of experience and a proven track record of excellence. For the past decade, she has been the Executive Producer of Daytime News in the Sydney newsroom, where she has been an instrumental figure in covering some of the most significant news events both locally and globally.

From leading the 9News live coverage of the Black Summer bushfires, the NSW floods, and the US election between Trump and Biden, to steering the reporting on international incidents like the Christchurch earthquake and shootings, the Paris and London Bridge terror attacks, and the King’s Coronation, McCarthy has demonstrated an exceptional ability to manage high-pressure situations with grace and effectiveness. Her work also includes extensive coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic and the live broadcast of Queen Elizabeth II’s passing.

Fiona Dear, Nine’s Director of News and Current Affairs, said: “A Current Affair has never been stronger, and Amy’s appointment comes at an exciting time as we aim to grow our audience by embracing new ideas and innovative approaches. Amy is a natural leader known for her creativity, mentorship, and collaborative spirit. She has a unique talent for storytelling and an unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity.

“Amy’s leadership style is defined by her ability to bring out the best in her team, her willingness to seek assistance when needed, and her dedication to mentoring junior staff while collaborating with senior colleagues. Her vision aligns perfectly with A Current Affair’s goals of not only maintaining its strong identity and loyal viewership but also expanding its reach and transforming into a dynamic, multiplatform program.

“I am thrilled to welcome Amy to the News and Current Affairs leadership group and look forward to seeing the innovative contributions she will bring to A Current Affair.”

Amy McCarthy, Executive Producer of A Current Affair, said: “I am so proud to be part of the ACA team. As a journalist, this show is as good as it gets – the incredible team find and tell stories that speak for Australia and hit the heart. It’s a big next step for me but I’m so ready for the challenge.”

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

Monday, June 17, 2024

The countdown to the Olympic Games Paris 2024 and with only 42 days to go, Nine’s talk stations are going for gold in digital audio streaming growth.     

Driven by surging listenership in key shifts as well as Nine Radio’s ratings-leading sport coverage, year-on-year data shows national growth of 8%. 

Sydney’s 2GB has shown incredible double-digit growth, with a 15% increase in total digital streaming listening hours (YoY), and uplift across Breakfast, Mornings, Afternoons and Drive, as well as Wide World of Sports and the Continuous Call Team rugby league coverage. 

Melbourne’s 3AW has also posted a remarkable 7% increase in total listener hours (YoY), including an unassailable 46% commercial Breakfast share, and uplift across key shifts and Friday AFL. 

Sport fans are also flocking to Brisbane’s 4BC, which has posted a 10% uptick (YoY) in Friday night rugby league coverage by the Continuous Call Team, and Perth’s 6PR has seen similar gains in Breakfast and Sunday AFL. 

SESSION STARTS	TOTAL LISTENING HOURS
11.03M	11.6M(up 8% YoY)

Nine Radio Head of Content, Greg Byrnes, said: “Our live audio streaming audience is surging, and as the official Olympic and Paralympic broadcaster, you can already hear the excitement building across our stations.”

“Audio delivers unmatched engagement for those iconic sporting moments and listening to us via streaming means all Australians will be able to enjoy every moment of the colour and excitement live from Paris across 2GB, 3AW, 4BC and 6PR. With a purpose built Olympic Studio and our team of commentators, reporters and hosts on the ground in Paris, we can’t wait for the games to begin!”

Nine’s Director of Sales, Total Audio, Ashley Earnshaw, said: “The scale of our digital stream listening reflects the improved listener experience through our apps and the role our content plays in the community.”

“Our audio superfans are increasingly seeking out our content on connected devices and smart speakers. Critically, for advertisers we have been able to extend our digital audio data product suite with more relevant and engaging targeting solutions, improving ROI and overall ad effectiveness.”

Source: Triton Webcast Metrics Streaming, May 1-31 2024, TLH – Total Listening Hours, Nine Radio, Unless otherwise specified

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

Friday, June 14, 2024

The NRL community will unite in the fight against brain cancer with the annual Beanie for Brain Cancer Round, Live and Free from Thursday, June 13 from 7.30pm on Channel 9HD and streaming on 9Now. 

In a momentous milestone for The Mark Hughes Foundation marking its 10th year, Beanie for Brain Cancer Round has contributed to one million beanies sold and tens of millions of dollars into research programs. 

The fight to help find a cure for brain cancer is ongoing with the annual round urging footy fans to buy a special beanie for the cause.

BUY A MHF BEANIE OR DONATE TODAY 

Firing up Beanie Round on Thursday Night Footy, a blockbuster showdown ensues with the Sharks against the Dolphins in a top four clash at PointsBet Stadium. 

Cronulla will be looking to build on the momentum of their big win over Brisbane last week as they welcome Nicho Hynes back into the halves from Origin. For the Dolphins, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Felise Kaufusi and Kodi Nikorima will all make their returns. 

In Friday Night Footy, a huge boost for South Sydney with skipper Cameron Murray set to make his long-awaited return from injury when they go head-to-head against the Broncos at Accor Stadium. 

Beanie Round culminates in Newcastle with the Knights hosting the reigning premiership winning Panthers at McDonald Jones Stadium in Sunday Arvo Footy. Knights centre Bradman Best is hopeful of making a comeback from injury in a bid to reclaim his NSW Origin spot, while Panthers star fullback Dylan Edwards makes his return to their team’s line-up. 

Don’t miss the pre-game coverage from 3.00pm Sunday when the Mark Hughes Foundation Big Three Trek arrives at the ground after their 150 kilometre walk from Sydney to Newcastle over three days raising funds and awareness for brain cancer. 

MHF Founder, Mark Hughes, said: “In Beanie Round we become unified as one big team. We all want to help make a difference, we all want to support brain cancer. Whether you’re NSW or QLD, no matter what team you support, we are on the same team and ready to take on our opponent – brain cancer. This is so much more important than a win or a loss.

“The momentum that keeps building, thanks largely to this round, is a game changer. We are setting the foundations for a better future and giving hope to brain cancer patients and families. We can’t do this alone, and our focus is expanding our national and international research partnerships to fast track a solution.

“On the field it’s a competition but when it comes to curing brain cancer, it’s all about collaboration. By purchasing a beanie, you are part of the movement and we are so grateful to the entire rugby league community for being a part of this, as we continue to tackle brain cancer together.”

BEANIE ROUND BROADCAST SCHEDULE

Thursday, June 13

THURSDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL – SHARKS v DOLPHINS
Syd/Bris            7.30pm LIVE and FREE on Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now
Melbourne        7.30pm LIVE and FREE on 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now
Adelaide           7.00pm LIVE and FREE on 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now
Perth                 5.30pm LIVE and FREE on 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now

Friday June 14

FRIDAY NIGHT FOOTY – RABBITOHS v BRONCOS
Syd/Bris            7.30pm LIVE and FREE on Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now
Melbourne        7.30pm LIVE and FREE on 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now
Adelaide           7.00pm LIVE and FREE on 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now
Perth                 5.30pm LIVE and FREE on 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now

Sunday, June 16

THE SUNDAY FOOTY SHOW – from 11.00am with Billy Slater, Andrew Johns, Brad Fittler and Danika Mason.

HOSTPLUS QUEENSLAND CUP – 2.10pm, Ipswich Jets v Norths Devils.
Norths Devils will be chasing a fourth straight win when they travel to Ipswich to take on the Jets.

SUNDAY ARVO FOOTY – KNIGHTS v PANTHERS
Syd/Bris             3.00pm LIVE and FREE on Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now
Melbourne         3.00pm LIVE and FREE on 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now
Adelaide            2.30pm LIVE and FREE on 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now
Perth                 1.00pm LIVE and FREE on 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now

Monday, June 17

7.30PM LIVE ON 9NOW – 100% FOOTY 
10.00pm on Channel 9HD in Sydney/Brisbane.
Phil Gould and Paul Gallen go head to head after the latest NRL round with host James Bracey. All the latest scoops come from 9News reporter Michael Chammas.

BEANIE FOR BRAIN CANCER ROUND
JUNE 13-16, LIVE AND FREE
WATCH ON CHANNEL 9HD, STREAM ON 9NOW

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

Wednesday, June 12, 2024

Nine Entertainment Co. (ASX: NEC) today announces Peter Costello AC has resigned as chairman and will also step down from the Board effective immediately.

Catherine West has been appointed Chair of NEC. Last year the Board engaged a search firm to identify potential new directors as part of renewal and succession plans. The Board’s Nominations Committee will take this process forward.

The Board wishes to thank Mr Costello for his contribution to Nine over more than a decade including eight years as chairman. Mr Costello played a key role in Nine milestones such as its successful re-listing on the Australian Stock Exchange in 2013, securing the landmark News Media Bargaining Code and the transformative merger with Fairfax Media.

Mr Costello said, “I thank the Board for their support over the last decade and particularly during the events of the last few weeks. I wish the Board, the employees and the Company well. There are enormous challenges ahead but I believe Nine is the best placed Australian media company to weather them and prosper.”

Ms West said: “On behalf of the Board I want to thank Peter for his dedication and commitment to Nine. Peter has led the transformation of Nine from a free to air network to a fully integrated media company with traditional and digital media assets across television, streaming publishing, audio and marketplaces. As Chairman, he has always put the needs of the company first and his decision to stand down and pass on the baton of leading Nine at this time is in line with that approach.”

Ms West has worked in the media and entertainment industry for over 30 years in the United Kingdom, Europe and Australia and brings extensive experience and a proven track record to the role of Chair.

Ms West said “The Board knows that the events of recent weeks have been extremely difficult and de-stabilising for our employees and other stakeholders and we are committed to ensuring, through our cultural review and other actions announced last week, that issues will be appropriately addressed.”

“The Board and management are united in focusing on the well-being of our people in all parts of our business. At Nine, we do work that has an important value to the community and the Board and management acknowledge their responsibility to ensure all parts of business, including our newsrooms, feel supported. We want to ensure our people can feel proud of our company and colleagues and the work they do.”

As a consequence of Mr Costello’s resignation and Ms West’s appointment as Chair, Mickie Rosen has been appointed to the Audit & Risk Committee and Mandy Pattinson will become the Chair of the People & Remuneration Committee.

The Board recognises action and accountability are required to maintain trust. The Board and management are united in focusing on the well-being of our people in all parts of the business.

This announcement was authorised for lodgment by the Board of Directors of Nine.

For further information, please contact:
Nola Hodgson
Head of Investor Relations
nhodgson@nine.com.au

Victoria Buchan
Director of Communications
vbuchan@nine.com.au

Sunday, June 9, 2024

Esteemed journalist Tracy Grimshaw and medical expert Dr Nick Coatsworth will put four pairs of everyday Australians under the microscope, testing the limits of human longevity, when Do You Want To Live Forever? premieres on Channel 9 and 9Now at 7.30pm on Monday, June 17.

They will embark on a life-changing 12-week journey of discovery, exploring the intricacies of health and ageing, seeking the secret to turning back their biological age.

From billion-dollar breakthroughs to simple secrets, Tracy and Nick will travel the globe, visiting the blue zones—regions known for their high concentrations of centenarians—to investigate scientific advances in ageing and discover the latest developments in longevity.

Tracy Grimshaw said: “I’ve always believed in the old adage ‘everything in moderation’, but that dates back to my childhood when we ate out twice a year and takeaway was maybe Chinese food every couple of months.

“In today’s world of drive-through meals and home delivery, with all-you-can-eat multiple times a week, moderation probably needs a rethink. 

“Over four episodes, dedicated bio-hackers will show us a portal to what they predict is the future of ageing – but we don’t have to go to their extremes. Our volunteers will teach us that we can all do something every day to improve our odds of a healthy lifespan and keep disease and dementia at bay.”

Dr Nick Coatsworth said: “Our brave participants let us join them on an exciting but confronting experiment on their own health and well-being. I can’t wait for Australia to see the results.

“The science of bio-hacking and longevity is so interesting. But what I’ve learned from this program and our participants is that we don’t need to be millionaire bio-hackers to live longer and happier. It’s the investment we make through our day-to-day choices that will add years, maybe decades, to our lives.”

Olympic champion Duncan Armstrong, alongside his son Tom and fan-favourites from The Block, Eliza and Liberty, among others, are gearing up to defy the ageing process and challenge our perceptions of mortality.

In this radical experiment they will undergo supervised medical tests to determine ways they can live longer. They will be exposed to treatments and explore health interventions that may provide clues to help us all live longer. Through their experiences, we will understand what the future holds, but most importantly, what we can do for ourselves, our kids, and even their kids, to lead better, healthier, longer lives.

The participants range from a couple who consume more than 15 cups of instant coffee a day to an Olympian navigating life after a heart attack, and a business owner and mum relying on energy drinks to fuel her hectic schedule. 

Meet the eight participants in this docu-series who are hoping to turn back their biological clock: 

Enver (51) and Eliana (57)  
NSW
A husband and wife seeking to break free from bad habits and rediscover vitality for a more fulfilling life together.

Taylor (28) and Luke (28)  
VIC
A determined couple who juggle demanding careers while prioritising health for their family’s future, aiming to set a positive example for their kids.

Eliza (38) and Liberty (35)  
VIC
Fan-favourite sisters from The Block embarking on a pursuit of wellbeing, each with her own unique approach to health.

Duncan (55) and Tom (32)  
QLD and NSW 
Father and son, with Duncan’s Olympic legacy inspiring Tom’s pursuit of health and longevity.

Through their diverse backgrounds and shared aspirations, these eight individuals will inspire viewers with resilience and determination to break through the ageing barrier and live longer, healthier lives. 

Can we extend our youth indefinitely? Can we conquer the diseases that rob us of our vitality and ultimately end our lives? Can we significantly push the limits of human longevity? Could immortality really be within our reach? And most importantly, if it is, do we truly desire it?

Join us for this groundbreaking docu-series commencing Monday, June 17, at 7.30pm on Channel 9 and 9Now.

LIKE Channel9 on Facebook
FOLLOW @Channel9 on Twitter
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Visit 9Now.com.au

Do You Want to Live Forever? is produced by Lune Media, with executive producers Ashley Davies, Leonie Lowe and David Galloway. 

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

Wednesday, June 5, 2024

After enduring a 15-day trek amid the pristine alps of New Zealand’s South Island, Charlotte, Simmone and Mat have triumphed among 15 everyday Aussies who embarked on the gruelling challenge of The Summit.

Navigating perilous terrain, heart-racing obstacles, and the watchful eye of the Mountain’s Keeper, the trio persevered in their quest to conquer the mountain and claim their share of the life-changing one million dollar prize.

In a dramatic turn of events, exhausted hikers Mat, Simmone, Charlotte, and Trisha realised they had reached the wrong summit. With only 24 hours left to reach the correct one, they faced losing over $580,000 in prize money if they failed to reach it by 12 pm the next day.

Impeding their progress to the summit were two deadly-deep crevasses they had to cross, along with a note instructing them to leave the final hiker behind. Mat had promised to take Simmone and Charlotte to the summit, so he convinced the group to change the order of crossing, ultimately leaving Trisha and her $53,000 behind.

Navigating treacherous terrain, the trio finally reached the summit and celebrated their hard-earned victory. However, this was short-lived. The Mountain’s Keeper revealed one final twist: Charlotte was given the power to decide the distribution of the prize pot – whether to share it or claim it all for herself.

On the valley floor, the winning hikers were met by those they had eliminated. The group was divided upon hearing of Charlotte’s dilemma. After intense deliberation, Charlotte made a big decision: she chose to give $100,000 each to Simmone and Mat, reserving a sum of $336,000 for herself. 

Charlotte, 35 from New South Wales, said: “I feel I’ve shown myself and those watching that ability truly comes from the heart. That with determination, humour and a few tears, anything is possible. I took the first step towards that peak with the incredible support of my family, friends and partner, and also the support of those on the mountain who believed in me, Olympia, Lochie, Rosi, Mat and Taylor. 

“The prize money will allow me to create security for myself and my family, something I didn’t think would ever be possible as a public healthcare worker. Representation matters. This was for all the nubs out there. You can do it! 

“My truest hope is that anyone who has questioned their ability, physical or otherwise, may allow this experience to be a kernel of hope that they too can do anything. Despite seemingly insurmountable odds, we can all put one foot in front of the other and persevere.”

Mat, 48 from Queensland, said: “Reaching the summit was amazing. And to do it with the people I’d committed to, getting there with was worth every bit of heartache and struggle.”

Simmone, 51, from New South Wales, added: “I went in solely for the money for a better life for my son and I, but what I got was a reignited fire deep in my soul. I’ll be forever grateful that The Summit handed me the match.”

The Summit is an original concept developed by Endemol Shine Australia (a Banijay Company) and Nine.

STREAM EVERY EPISODE OF THE SUMMIT FOR FREE ON 9NOW
THE SUMMIT FINALE IMAGES AVAILABLE HERE

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

Wednesday, June 5, 2024