Last Saturday night ABC News was the #1 destination for Australians following the fortunes of the political parties following the closure of the polling booths. The ABC TV coverage was hosted by Leigh Sales and featured an all-star team of ABC contributors.
That team of broadcasters looks like it will be even stronger come the next state or federal election the broadcaster covers with news that Sky News political editor David Speers is leaving Sky News and heading to the ABC where one of his duties will be taking over hosting duties on Insiders, replacing Barrie Cassidy who steps down next month.
When reports of Speers’ appointment surfaced in a report from Amanda Meade at Guardian Australia on Thursday, new colleagues of the next host of Insiders were quick to congratulate and welcome Speers to the broadcaster.
Cassidy said of his replacement: “Real coup for the ABC.” He later added it was still speculation ahead of official ABC confirmation.
Nine’s Chris Uhlmann said: “I hear my friend and professional rival David Speers is joining the ABC. He is, without doubt, one of the best in the business. The national broadcaster is lucky to have him and I look forward to many years of good-spirited competition. Congratulations mate.”
ABC Breakfast co-presenter Michael Rowland said: “This is a superb appointment. David Speers will comfortably fill Barrie Cassidy’s big shoes. A true class act! Welcome aboard, mate.”
Cassidy had a segment on ABC News Breakfast this morning. He referenced he only had a handful of programs left to host, and was then asked about his replacement. Cassidy and the hosts praised the journalism of Amanda Meade and then Cassidy confirmed the appointment of Speers: “He’ll be there…eventually.”