Some of the most recognisable names in the radio industry have been announced as the hosts for the 2023 Australian Commercial Radio & Audio (ACRA) Awards. The event will take place at the ICC in Sydney on October 14.
The hosts include:
• Robin Bailey and Kip Wightman (Rob, Terry and Kip, KIIS 97.3 Brisbane, ARN)
• Tim Blackwell and Joel Creasey (Ricki-Lee, Tim & Joel, NOVA Entertainment)
• Jimmy Smith, Nath Roye and Loren Barry (The Jimmy & Nath Show and The Marty Sheargold Show, SCA)
• Sofie Formica and Ray Hadley (4BC afternoons and The Ray Hadley Morning Show, Nine Radio)
Various Australian artists are also set to perform live at the awards including proud Coodjinburra artist Budjerah and proud Gamilaraay man Mitch Tambo. More Australian acts will be revealed leading up to the event.
Over 1,200 entries from across Australia have been received which is up 15% from 2022.
The awards champion excellence in commercial radio broadcasting and audio across entertainment, news, talk and sport.
Ford Ennals, CEO of CRA said: “This year, the major Australian radio networks have joined together to provide some of their brightest stars to acknowledge those who have stood out all over the previous 12 months.”
“We are truly excited to be bringing some of Australia’s best acts to the ACRAs, which, like commercial radio across the nation, champions Australian music. Commercial radio plays 2.7 million Australian songs each year, and this year we’ve added the Gudinksi Award, or the Australian Music Champion Award, in addition to our existing Australian music-centred awards.
“The 34th ACRA Awards will celebrate 100 years commercial radio in Australia. And while we honour a century of music, news, entertainment and connection, we crown those who are ensuring commercial radio’s continued vibrancy and relevance across Australia.”
New categories set to appear at this year’s event include station of the year, podcast of the year, diversity and inclusion, best news event coverage, individual talent of the year and podcast host of the year.
Tickets go on sale in early September.