Australia’s largest privately owned radio group, Super Radio Network, has been put up for sale by siblings George Caralis and Despina Priala, after what The Australian has described as a breakdown in their working relationship.
The sale comes days after Rhys Holleran exited the business after just six months as Chief Executive Officer, reportedly following a dispute over staff cuts, leading Graham Mott to take up the uncertain position.
The pair have appointed Dan Tepper of KPMG to oversee the sale process, with expectations that the business could attract bids exceeding $100 million.
Ownership tensions surface
Caralis and Priala took control of the network around 19 months ago after the deaths of their parents, founders Bill and Pam Caralis.
Their leadership was initially met with optimism amid plans to grow the flagship station, 2SM, into a stronger competitor to Nine Radio’s dominant 2GB.
However, as Steve Jackson details differing visions for the company’s direction have since led to internal tensions and a breakdown in their partnership.
SRN employs around 200 people and operates more than 40 stations across New South Wales and Queensland, including key regional markets such as Newcastle, Bathurst, Tamworth, Dubbo, Taree, Lismore and Tweed Heads.
Market context
The move comes amid broader shifts in the Australian radio landscape.
Nine Radio, which owns 2GB, 3AW, 4BC and 6PR, was recently sold to pub baron Arthur Laundy for around $50 million and is set to rebrand as Tapt Media from May 1
The sale of Super Radio Network represents one of the most significant opportunities in Australia’s radio sector in recent years, with potential buyers likely to be drawn to its scale, regional footprint and established talkback presence.
Mediaweek has reached out to KPMG’s Tepper for comments.
Main image: Despina Priala and George Caralis