It was a celebratory morning for Australian radio as stations wrapped up programming ahead of Christmas, with GOLD 101.7 marking the end of an era for its breakfast audience.
After years at the helm of Sydney mornings, Jonesy and Amanda bid farewell to their breakfast listeners during their final show, ahead of their move to the national Drive slot on the GOLD Network in 2026.
The award-winning duo willhead to afternoons from 3pm to 6pm next year.
The final broadcast also served as a symbolic handover, with Christian O’Connell joining the show as he prepared to step into the breakfast slot with The Christian O’Connell Show.
During the broadcast, Amanda reflected on the significance of the moment for the network.
“Let’s all hold hands because this is an amazing time for the GOLD Network. I think GOLD is the one to watch next year. Sydney is going to absolutely love you [Christian], so welcome. And we are going to the fruited plains of the Drive show, as we’ve been saying, from 3 to 6 pm, and we’re going to be the bookends of the day. I think this is making us stronger than ever, and it’s so nice to see you here.”
O’Connell acknowledged the weight of following one of the most established duos in Australian radio.
“Well, listen, it’s a joy to be here. I do feel a bit awkward because obviously, I’m the guy taking over from you guys. You’re moving your show.”
Amanda reassured listeners that the transition was in safe hands.
“You know, this is precious cargo. Our people are precious cargo, and I know that you’ll treat them with gloves.”
O’Connell said stepping into the role was both an honour and a responsibility.
“In all seriousness, I think it’s a real honour. I do. I think it’s a real honour and privilege to carry on from the work you guys have done, and I don’t take it lightly. It means an awful amount to me. You know, I’m a big fan of you guys, and I think you’re brilliant. There are very few people in radio, sadly, these days, that really show up to do a show, and there should be more people like us, the free spirits that are still in radio. So, I’m glad that you’re going to build something amazing and that we’re going to work on the same radio station. It’s an incredible network.”
The emotional tone was balanced with the trademark humour the trio are known for.
“Can I just say we’ve been holding hands now for the last four minutes? It’s getting a bit awkward,” Jonesy joked.
Looking ahead to 2026, O’Connell said the crossover between Sydney and Melbourne audiences would continue.
“It’s going to be amazing. It’ll be great for all of us seeing you guys. I’m gonna be in Sydney a lot next year.”
Jonesy was quick with the final quip.
“That’s funny. We’re going to be in Melbourne. What are the chances! You might have to come in and burn some sage, mate.”