Seven West Media has confirmed that James Warburton will finish as CEO today, 18 April 2024, after weeks of reports to that effect.

Warburton resigned in December 2023, at which point Seven said he would finish on or before 30 June 2024. The board met today, and Seven issued a statement to the ASX at 4:17pm confirming Jeff Howard – the network’s former chief financial officer – will be CEO from tomorrow.

The search for a CFO replacement continues. In the interim, Craig Haskins is acting CFO.

Chair Kerry Stokes and Howard thanked Warburton “for his contribution to the business over many years”.

Until now, Seven would not confirm the 18 April departure date. On 8 April, a Seven spokesperson told Mediaweek: “As Seven said in December, James will leave on or before 30 June this year.”

During his time with Seven, Warburton secured an extension of its AFL agreement, a deal that will last until the end of the 2031 season and is worth $4.5 billion – the biggest broadcast deal in Australian history.

He also ensured Seven has the FTA cricket rights for the next seven years, including streaming for the first time. Under Warburton, the network also secured coverage of the Matildas at the FIFA Women’s World Cup.

During his final months in the role, Warburton has been a vocal member of the FTA group lobbying for changes to proposed sports anti-siphoning laws. In March, Seven released a consumer-facing campaign urging the government to give Aussies access to free sports content on digital platforms. 

Warburton’s exit comes the same week as Seven was in the headlines for misidentifying the Bondi Junction attacker, and Justice Michael Lee handed down his judgment in Bruce Lehrmann’s defamation case against Network 10 and Lisa Wilkinson. Seven’s Spotlight program came under the microscope when former producer Taylor Auerbach became a witness for 10 as part of the court case. Former EP Mark Llewellyn left the network in the wake of Auerbach’s evidence.

This is the second time Warburton has left the network. On 2 March 2011, Warburton, then a Seven sales executive, signed a contract with Network 10. Seven successfully went to the Supreme Court of New South Wales to enforce Warburton’s restraints of trade to prevent him from commencing employment with Network 10 until 14 October 2012, 12 months after his employment with Seven ended.

Howard will present the FY24 12 months results in August.

See also: Farewell, James Warburton: Seven West Media CEO’s last day in the office

The second instalment of work, and first TVC, from +61 has dropped for Telstra: ‘Pointless,’ a film directed by Finch’s Christopher Riggert.

Set in the picturesque countryside, the fourth-wall breaking film depicts a young boy and his father toiling away in the fields against the serene lull of orchestral strings, when –

“Is this a pointless ad?” the young boy asks.  

“Well, if you’re not an existing Telstra customer, it is,” the father responds. “No one else is getting the best deals this month.”

“Only customers get the best deal this month,” the ad’s closing superimposition reads.

It’s the first film work out of the +61 bespoke agency. Mediaweek has contacted +61 for comment.

The first creative work from the joint agency venture built for Telstra launched last week on Monday 8 April 2023: ‘From Space to Your Place.’ 

The OOH work is for Telstra’s satellite home internet, with a significant focus on remote and regional areas that will benefit most from the connectivity solution.

To bring ‘From Space to Your Place’ to life, +61 partnered with Cream Studios, photographer Nadav Kander, and the acclaimed Australian prosthetic experts at Odd Studio.

“I love how ambitious, yet simple this work is,” said Telstra’s chief marketing officer Brent Smart on the first work, reflecting that the +61 ecosystem was a mere brainchild just months ago.  

“And of course it’s beautifully crafted, like everything Micah and his team does. We are just getting started,” he said.

The creative partnership, first announced in October last year, unites independent creative studio Bear Meets Eagle On Fire (BMEOF), led by founder and CCO Micah Walker, with the integrated capabilities of TBWA and Telstra’s existing media agency, TBWA’s Omnicom stablemate, OMD.

See also: First Telstra work from +61, From Space to Your Place, launches

Credits:
Client: Telstra
Agency: +61
Director: Christopher Riggert
MD: Corey Esse
Executive Producer: Nick Simkins
Producer: Cath Anderson
Casting: Byrne Casting
DOP: Ross Giardina
Post Production: The Editors
Sound Design & Music: Rumble Studios

Australia is a “blueprint” for the global Paramount business, which is why it’s one of the first markets to launch a Paramount+ ad tier, according to president of international markets, advertising sales, Lee Sears.

Local chief sales officer Rod Prosser believes that ahead of the June introduction of the ad tier, he’s the “most excited I’ve ever been” in his 14 years at the business. 

“This is the first time I can stand in front of them [advertisers], and say, ‘This is a true proposition’. The fact that we’ve now got a global platform, and soon to be launching ad tier here means the conversations are changing. The advertisers and advertising agencies are now understanding exactly what that global proposition brings to this market.

“Our competitor set has broadened out, which actually makes for some good challenges. But with unshackling ourselves from our traditional competitors, free to air competitors, means we can start accessing different budgets, and hopefully more revenue.”

Prosser and Sears were speaking to Mediaweek in Paramount’s Pyrmont offices this week, while Sears is in Australia to meet agencies, and the local team in person for the first time since he started in his current role in March – his second promotion in the space of a year.

“We do all of our own sales, we’re owned and operated, we’ve got a free to air broadcaster, we’ve got FAST, AVOD, and now with P+, it means we’ve got the full suite,” Sears says of why the local market is the “blueprint”.

“It also mirrors what we have in the US, because that’s how we’re set up there.”

The Paramount+ ad tier launched first in the US, then Canada a few weeks ago, with Australia’s launch close behind in a couple of months. After that, “we will be looking at other markets,” Sears says. Priced at $6.99 per month here, Prosser says this “accessibility then means scale. And not only does it mean scale, hopefully quickly, it means less churn on those other tiers.”

Sears has “had agencies and clients asking me to buy Paramount+ ad tier, even though we hadn’t launched it” for a long time, and Prosser adds there’s “serious interest” here, “particularly around the One Paramount proposition, which is essentially, all of our platforms, our total ecosystem, coming together for a brand and advertiser to reach new audiences.”

“We’ve got SVOD, we’ve got AVOD, we’ve got obviously BVOD, we’ve got a free to air TV channel – that’s a pretty compelling offering,” Sears argues.

“And it’s something which I think is really a point of difference and means that we can play in a different space. And in addition to that, we own a film studio, some of the biggest films in the world are going to be part of that, alongside some of the most watched content from around the world. And then a free to air channel, which has some of the biggest shows in market.

“If you combine all of that together, the ad tier is a really exciting addition to the proposition. But then it’s about putting it all together. And that’s what Rod and I are working on with the team, making it a really convergent, cohesive sell to the market.

“It’s about not having different teams go out and do it. It’s about having one team that goes out and does all of it.”

Last month, Paramount+ EVP and international general manager Marco Nobili was in town, speaking with Mediaweek alongside AUNZ Paramount boss Beverley McGarvey. Nobili was clear: McGarvey’s priority is to help steer Paramount+ to profitability. Sears is equally focused on that.

“The ad tier can send money to the rest of the advertising business, and the rest of the advertising business can make P+ part of that conversation. That’s why we’re choosing to launch the ad tier obviously, we needed to build the infrastructure, we needed to make sure that the content was right, we absolutely have that.

“We feel really confident, and in a good place to make sure that the ad tier is a massive success, but also is a really important part of the rest of the offering that we have, from a commercial standpoint.”

Sears’ boss, Pam Kauffman – president and CEO of international markets, global consumer products and experiences – has said his task is to “further position Paramount as an advertising powerhouse.” His first step to achieving that has been “breaking down silos, because we had different teams selling different things. That doesn’t make sense. It’s about creating a One Paramount team that sells our entire portfolio. And that’s exactly what we’re doing here in Aus.

“That’s the reason I say Aus is a great blueprint, because Rod and the team are doing exactly that … That’s what I believe will put them in such a strong position uniquely, and means that they can have conversations other people cannot.”

He also mentions a unified ad server – “that’s a really, really big statement, because I believe that that puts us, globally, in a really good position” – and a focus on ensuring alignment between teams, “put[ting] the right people in the right roles.”

McGarvey and Nobili

When Mediaweek interviews Sears and Prosser, it’s a day after the landmark Lehrmann verdict, in which his defamation case against 10 and Lisa Wilkinson was dismissed. 10 called the result “a triumph for truth”, and said it “remains firmly committed to honest, fair and independent journalism … to always pursuing, without fear or favour, journalism that is firmly in the public interest.”

Prosser confirms “advertisers definitely see value in the news. And the reality is, our news is brand safe. There’s integrity in our journalism, there always has been, there always will be. And advertisers, particularly given what’s going on in the world, want to be in a brand safe environment.”

As for what advertisers most expect from Paramount, Prosser says it’s strong ROI, and promises his team will deliver, while Sears adds: “what they’re looking for is frictionless entry, frictionless ability to buy. I think that converged sell is exactly that. I think all brands want brand safe content. They want the best content. And I think we have both of those in spades.”

—

Top image L-R: Sears and Prosser

The second radio ratings survey of the year delivered an “enthralling storyline” featuring fierce rivalries, and more than a few “bumps and jumps”, according to Mediabrands’ media buyers Daniela Rocchi and Peter Stowe.

“Radio continues to thrive, you can see by the recent bumps and jumps across many of the FM stations, within most metro markets, in Survey 2,” Stowe, UM‘s senior trading director, told Mediaweek.

“It seems listeners are still switching the dial more than ever, especially in Brisbane, who appear to have a new number one station every survey.

“The fact that radio networks such as SCA, Nine Radio, and ARN have all signed on some of their biggest talent to lucrative long-term contracts, clearly showcases they are in it for the long haul.”

Those deals include KIIS FM’s infamous Kyle and Jackie O and recent Will and Woody contract extensions, plus Ray Hadley and Carrie and Tommy extending their relationships with Nine’s 2GB and SCA’s Hit, respectively, until 2026.

Rocchi, Initiative‘s head of investment in Sydney, argued the second survey “unveils an enthralling storyline: KIIS and Smooth jointly establishing FM dominance in Sydney, a fresh Melbourne breakfast frontrunner emerging, and parallel rivalries igniting in Brisbane.”

Sydney

In the harbour city, Kyle and Jackie O took the breakfast crown from 2GB’s Ben Fordham, but 2GB remained on top overall.

Stowe called the breakfast battle a “non-stop Sydney switcheroo … between 2GB and KIIS”.

“KIIS FM’s brand new North Sydney studios would have seen its first confetti and champagne clean-up,” Stowe quipped, “as Kyle and Jackie O beat Ben Fordham for the first time this year. The cleaners would have definitely been brought in to mop up the new carpet.”

smoothfm tied with KIIS with an overall share of 11%, and WSFM lifted by 1.2 percentage points to 8.7% – the biggest jump of the survey.

“The co-dominance of KIIS and Smooth FM has solidified, making a seismic shift in the FM market,” Rocchi added. “Their collective stronghold reflects evolving listeners preferences and the art of catering to diverse tastes.”

Stowe slipped in a compliment for SEN too, which climbed by 0.5 points to a 1.6% share.

“SEN owner Craig Hutchison would be happy to see SEN 1170 increasing its share to 1.6% from 0.5%, a new record for the station,” he said. “The kick off of the NRL season would have helped.”

Melbourne

In Melbourne, we learned that Kyle and Jackie O will inherit a 6.4% share in the breakfast slot, when they begin broadcasting at the end of the month.

“The rise of a new breakfast champion has ignited curiosity and speculation as the morning battles escalate,” Rocchi said. “Audiences eagerly anticipate the evolving narrative of this dynamic radio rivalry. The question remains: Will Melbourne embrace or reject Kyle and Jackie O? Only time will reveal the answer.”

3AW’s Russel Howcroft and Ross Stevenson are the competition to chase, with a dominant 18.1% share. 

“The three certainties in life – death, taxes and 3AW dominating the competition in Melbourne,” Stowe joked.

“However 3AW Drive, hosted by Jacqui Felgate, lost another -0.6 points this survey.”

On Nova, Jase and Lauren jumped 1.6 points for an 8.3% share in their first survey since taking the breakfast reins on the station, after being booted from KIIS to make way for Kyle and Jackie O. Stowe said it’s a “promising start,” but was “a little surprised that didn’t see a larger increase post their much-publicised station switch. I guess all eyes on survey three as they settle into their new home at Nova breakfast.”

Brisbane

SCA took the #1 and #2 spots with B105 and Triple M, despite Stav, Abby, and Matt‘s slide. KIIS also experienced a spike.

“The scene in Brisbane paints a picture of dual battles, where stations vie for supremacy in multiple time slots,” Rocchi explained.

“With each contender bringing its unique flare to the airwaves, the competition is fierce, and stakes are high with B105 surging past both Triple M and Nova. This significant leap underscores the dynamic nature of Brisbane’s radio landscape and signals a compelling shift in listener preferences.”

Stowe added: “The Brisbane ratings shakeup continues with both SCA stations pretty much neck and neck at the top (B105 11.9% and Triple M 11.8%). Good result for Triple M Brisbane breakfast, Marto, Margaux, and Dan are doing extremely well at number 1.”

Russel Howcroft and Ross Stevenson‘s audience is very different to that of Kyle and Jackie O‘s so Nine’s Greg Byrnes isn’t too worried their breakfast crown is up for grabs.

After the release of yesterday’s second radio ratings survey for 2024, Nine Radio’s head of content spoke to Mediaweek about Ross and Russ’ dominance, 2GB’s 40% spike during its coverage of the Bondi Junction tragedy, and next survey’s sporting focus.

2GB’s audience spiked by 40% during the events at Bondi Junction and 2GB is a widely trusted brand: How important is that brand building when it comes to Aussies switching on the radio for fast, accurate information in an unfolding crisis?

We pride ourselves on doing it like no other.

This means having broadcasters in the position who have the experience to know how to respond. However, there’s a balance between getting the information out quickly and making sure it’s correct. Misinformation is floating everywhere, especially with the advent of social media, so it’s not just about being first, you need to be right.

Experience is key, and experience is about checking the right information is being disseminated. That’s what our audience has learned to trust us for and we take great pride in delivering.

This survey is the last before Kyle and Jackie O hit Melbourne – how do you think they’ll fit into the landscape and can Ross and Russ on 3AW hold them off?

3AW’s audience, particularly around that breakfast program is like no other, which also means it’s very different from anyone who might be tuning into Kyle and Jackie O’s.

But ultimately, it’s not up for me to decide how they do their show and Ross and Russ’ entire production team is behind them, and focused on what they do and what they can control, that being to ensure each day is better than the last. They certainly set the agenda at 3AW in Melbourne.

Russel and Ross

What areas will Nine be particularly focussed on for the next survey? 

The next survey will be a full football (AFL and NRL) survey and football is a very key product within our brand. Responding to breaking news will also always be a focus, and the Olympics are now under 100 days away. We’ve ramped up our Olympic branding across the network, and Nine Radio will be alongside Nine Publishing and TV to bring the most extensive coverage seen to date. 

See also: ‘Biggest undertaking in the history of Nine’: Nine’s Paris Olympics plans, 100 days out

Any other standout highlights? 

The streaming data from this survey is quite remarkable. Ross and Russ had a huge 47% commercial share and Ben [Fordham] was at about 40%. The events on the weekend show that more and more people are finding content through a connected device. 

Our content on that platform levels the playing field in relation to quality of broadcast, because it sounds great and it takes away some of that stigma associated with traditional AM.

Jase & Lauren lifted 1.6 points in their first full survey in the Nova breakfast slot, after shifting stations to make way for Kyle and Jackie O hitting Melbourne airwaves. Nova group programming director Brendan Taylor spoke to Mediaweek after yesterday’s survey 2 results about the duo’s result, smoothfm’s competitiveness and consistency, and Nova’s future focuses. 

Jase & Lauren were the biggest breakfast lifters in Melbourne in their first full survey, what is your reaction to their performance?

It’s always a happy reaction when you see an increase like that, particularly with a show like Jase & Lauren, and the attention that it has had on it. It’s really promising to see and I’m super pleased for everyone involved. They are a hardworking team, and I know it would be a huge boost of confidence for them in this early stage to see a result like that today.

smoothfm has tied with KIIS in Sydney for the #1 FM station, how is smooth going competing with the big players?

It’s a credit to all the smooth team to be equal number one and to have a number one in a market as competitive as Sydney is a great result. Similarly in Melbourne, the breakfast results speak for themselves and show that the teams are doing the right things and connecting with audiences. At smooth, it’s all about consistency, so we’ll be looking to continue that success for the rest of the year.

Are there any areas you’re going to be particularly focussed on for the next survey?

Here at Nova, we are well-planned. It’s really promising and pleasing to see our live and local strategy which has been rolling out since the back end of last year connect with audiences. Like smooth, across all our brands, consistency is key. Having all our shows and talent in sync and in rhythm with the strategy we want to deliver is important, and it’s in a good place right now. 

On days like today, it’s promising to see shows like Jodie & Hayesy in Adelaide perform well and then looking to Perth, with Nathan, Nat and Shawn leading the market with an 18.3% share, it’s really pleasing.

See also: Jase and Lauren Day 1 at Nova: First review – Lots of chat about KIIS sacking

ABC Radio has undergone a relatively big shake-up in the past few months. New content bosses have arrived from commercial radio, bringing with them a refresh of the metro stations.

As new head of audio content Ben Latimer told Mediaweek earlier this year, changes in commercial radio can also impact ABC listening habits: “There has been significant upheaval [in radio] outside of the ABC in some markets. It takes a while for audiences to settle into a relationship with a particular program or presenter.”

See also: ABC head of audio content Ben Latimer ready for GfK report card on programming changes

ABC content chiefs: Chris Oliver-Taylor, Ben Latimer and Mike Fitzpatrick

There are three new breakfast shows at five of the ABC Radio mainland stations. Two of the three are performing well in what are very early days.

Craig Reucassel presents Sydney breakfast, Sonya Feldhoff and Jules Schiller took over in Adelaide Adelaide, and Mark Gibson got breakfast in Perth. There has been one stand-out performer so far out of these three markets. No spoiler – see below.

There has also been some change at the four ABC national networks – RN (aka Radio National), Triple J, Newsradio and ABC Classic. We summarise those ratings results market-by-market too.

Below we dig into some of the data surrounding who did well in GfK Survey 2, 2024 at ABC Radio.

See also all commercial station radio ratings market by market for GfK Survey 2, 2024

ABC Radio: Sydney

The station’s overall share of 5.1% must be close to an all-time low. The good news – the only way is up. Something they used to say a lot at the sinking 2Day FM after Kyle and Jackie O left. The Sydney share is also the lowest of any of the ABC metro stations in the GfK surveys.

Breakfast with Craig Reucassel slips to 7.1%. The good news – he outrates five commercial Sydney breakfast shows. Many listeners are enjoying the former bad boy from The Chaser. Among the breakfast options Reucassel is outperforming are the Melbourne-based Sydney commercial FM breakfast shows hosted Dave Hughes and Mick Molloy on the SCA duopoly.

Breakfast is no longer the high point at the ABC station though. That honour at ABC Sydney now goes to Renee Krosch in evening on 7.2%. A share that is higher than Ruecassel’s by the smallest possible margin. Krosch has been with the ABC for over two decades. The former producer is now making a mark on air.

Renee Krosch – now ABC Radio Sydney’s highest-rating presenter

In between those two shows over 7% the numbers are not great. All other dayparts are under 5%. The good news? The share numbers for the return of James Valentine to afternoon and Richard Glover in drive are both up. Valentine is on sick leave though, with Tim Webster hosting until his return.

ABC combined share in Sydney: 13.7% (14.8%)
ABC Sydney: 5.1% (5.4%) Cume 510,000 (572,000)
ABC Sydney breakfast with Craig Reucassel: 7.1% (7.9%) Cume 285,000 (318,000)

ABC Melbourne

The station share of 6.0% is down 0.5 from the start of the survey year.

Breakfast with Sammy J was down 0.8 to 7.3% means it trails all commercial FM breakfast offerings except Marty Sheargold at Triple M and music at KIIS. You can probably take KIIS off the list of stations the ABC outrates after April 29 when Kyle and Jackie O arrive. The good news: ABC breakfast remains way ahead of the four niche AM players. And of course its sister ABC networks.

Sammy J hosts local radio Melbourne breakfast

The evening show with David Astle also outrates ABC breakfast in Melbourne. Not by much, but it is the station high point on 7.8%.

Morning with Rafael Epstein was down 0.3 to 6.7%, and afternoon with Trevor Chappell was down 0.7 to 4.7%. The good news is that Ali Moore in drive was steady on 5.8%.

ABC combined share in Melbourne: 14.3% (15.2%)
ABC Melbourne: 6.0% (6.5%) Cume 534,000 (538,000)
ABC Melbourne breakfast with Sammy J: 7.3% (8.1%) Cume 301,000 (304,000)

ABC Brisbane

Station share is not pretty with 4.2% in a market with 12 station’s jostling for audience. (Sydney has 15, Melbourne 16.)

Breakfast with Craig Zonca and Loretta Ryan is close to the station high on 5.9%. But that honour goes again in this market to evening host Rebecca Levingston with 6.3%. While that’s a win, it’s down from 7.6% in Survey 1 this year.

Craig Zonca and Loretta Ryan host local radio Brisbane breakfast

Across the rest of the day there is no daypart over 4%, with afternoon and drive on 3.1% each. The drive figures are up though from a miserable 2.6% in Survey 1. Also on the improve was Steve Austin in the morning with share up 0.3 to 3.9%.

ABC combined share in Brisbane: 13.9% (14.1%)
ABC Brisbane: 4.2% (4.3%) Cume 221,000 (228,000)
ABC Brisbane breakfast with Craig Zonca and Loretta Ryan: 5.9% (6.1%) Cume 121,000 (128,000)

ABC Adelaide

The good news story of the metro radio network with a station share of 7.4%, up from 6.6% in Survey 1.

Breakfast with Sonya Feldhoff and Jules Schiller has hit a chord with the people of Adelaide with share hitting double figures. A number not seen in any of the survey books for any of the ABC dayparts in any other market. The hosts are now less than 1.0 behind the Adelaide AM marker leader – David and Will on Fiveaa.

Adelaide ABC breakfast hosts Sonya Feldhoff and Jules Schiller

The station performs well too in the morning with David Bevan on 8.5% (+ 1.0) and evening where Jason Chong is on 7.2% (+1.4). Afternoon with Nikolai Beilharz (6.0%) and drive with Jolene Laverty (5.2%) were also both up this survey.

ABC combined share in Adelaide: 18.0% (17.4%)
ABC Adelaide: 7.4% (6.6%) Cume 151,000 (150,000)
ABC Adelaide breakfast with Sonya Feldhoff and Jules Schiller: 10.9% (9.5%) Cume 97,000 (91,000)

ABC Perth

The station share of 5.7% sees it just above its long-time commercial rival 6PR on 5.5%.

Breakfast with Mark Gibson was up 1.0 to 7.6%, the second-highest metro breakfast share of any ABC station.

Mark Gibson hosts local radio breakfast at ABC Perth

ABC Perth evening with Philip Clark was the station’s high point with 10.7%. That was actually down 1.1 on the Survey 1 result. Afternoon and drive were both flat or down and under 5%. Morning with Nadia Mitsopoulos was on 5.6%, up 0.6.

ABC combined share in Perth: 16.4% (18.0%)
ABC Perth: 5.7% (5.6%) Cume 236,000 (201,000)
ABC Perth breakfast with Mark Gibson: 7.6% (6.6%) Cume 133,000 (106,000)

Some of the ABC Radio brands

ABC national networks

Radio National (RN)
Sydney 1.2% (+0.1)
Melbourne 2.3% (+0.1)
Brisbane 1.1% (-0.1)
Adelaide 1.2% (-0.2)
Perth 1.2% (+0.3)

ABC Newsradio
Sydney 1.3% (+0.1)
Melbourne 1.4% (+0.3)
Brisbane 0.8% (-0.4%)
Adelaide 1.7% (+0.2)
Perth 1.6% (-0.1)

Triple J
Sydney 3.7% (-0.4)
Melbourne 3.2% (-1.1)
Brisbane 5.5% (-0.1)
Adelaide 5.1% (-0.1)
Perth 5.6% (-1.4)

ABC Classic
Sydney 2.4% (-0.6)
Melbourne 1.4% (+0.3)
Brisbane 2.3% (+0.5)
Adelaide 2.6% (-0.1)
Perth 2.3% (-0.5)

See also: Tracking ABC’s radio ratings in Survey 1, 2024 – How did new breakfast hosts perform on debut?

Source: GfK Radio Ratings Survey 2, 2024
Figures in brackets are for results in GfK Survey 1, 2024

Peter van Onselen has joined The Daily Mail as its political editor. He will join the title on 29 April.

In the role, van Onselen will be responsible for breaking exclusives and providing political and social commentary.

‘We’re thrilled with Peter’s appointment and believe his in-depth knowledge of the political issues affecting everyday Australians coupled with his incisiveness are perfect for our ever-growing readership,’ said Daily Mail Australia‘s editor, Felicity Hetherington.

“Peter knows Australian politics and the people who run the country inside out and will tell it how it is.”

Van Onselen was a contributing editor at The Australian for 15 years, and is a professor of politics at the University of Western Australia.

“I’m really looking forward to being part of such a dynamic team,” Van Onselen said. “I can’t wait to start serving up some unvarnished home truths about where Australian politics is at.”

He was previously the political editor at Network 10 from 2018 to 2023, and co-hosted The Sunday Project on the network. He made headlines last year when he was sued by his ex-employer, 10.

Court justice David Hammerschlag ruled van Onselen had breached his redundancy contract with the network by writing a “disparaging” piece in The Australian detailing its financial troubles. Van Onselen was ordered to foot 10’s legal bills as a result.

“Channel 10 has long been the minnow of Australian commercial television,” van Onselen’s column read.

In his judgment, Justice Hammerschlag said: “One of the clear implications … is that Dr. Van Onselen took up the position because 10’s future looked bright, but he ‘walked away’ from it because this turned out not to be the case.

“To my mind, this is a disparaging comment in the context of Dr. Van Onselen’s employment and its termination.

“This type of disparagement can self-evidently undermine the confidence of investors or potential investors in 10. That is not a trivial or insignificant matter.”

See also: Peter Van Onselen loses contract breach lawsuit brought by Network 10

–

Top Image: Peter van Onselen

Flight Centre Travel Group has engaged VML to establish the brand identity of its new unified global B2B brand, Envoyage, slated for rollout throughout 2024 and into 2025.

FCTG enlisted the agency to develop an identity that reflects the cohesiveness of the independent global travel agent network under the Envoyage umbrella, previously spanning multiple brands to varying degrees of recognition.

Under the brand missive to “fuel journeys of a lifetime,” the brand has put forward a a B2B proposition focused on “future-proofing your business for tomorrow’s demand and growing global complexity.”

Its core focus will be providing innovative and reliable tools and systems for independent operators.

Danielle Galloway, FCTG’s managing director of luxury and independent brands, described Envoyage as the culmination of market research, industry consultation and in-depth design.

She described the new brand proposition as “compelling, memorable and versatile.”

“Our research tells us Envoyage conjures up a sense of aspiration, a feeling of security and an immediate association with travel and personalisation, so it truly embodies everything our independent division is about.

“Being part of Envoyage will offer travel advisors the best of both worlds – the freedom of running their own business their way, coupled with the power of a truly global brand and community.”

Alison Tilling, VML’s chief strategy officer, said that as a B2B brand “it was important Envoyage was positioned as a support.

“The Flight Centre independent agents and agencies are the heroes, we wanted this connected brand to herald the ecosystem and offer global growth opportunities to each individual business.”

VML was introduced in October last year after WPP announced the merger of Wunderman Thompson and VMLY&R. Its APAC leadership team was unveiled in December, with Audrey Kuah and Yi-Chung Tay named co-chief executive officers.

See also: VML unveils its new APAC market leadership team

Credits:

Client: Flight Centre Travel Group 
Global leisure CEO: James Kavanagh
Global managing director luxury and independent brands: Danielle Galloway
Global chief operations officer: Astrid Richardson
Global head of brand and marketing: Allie Sparr

Agency: VML 
Chief strategy officer: Alison Tilling 
Strategy director: Alan Patterson 
Managing director: Johan Borg 
Managing partner: Kath Chen 
Account director: Leanne Keogh 
Creative director: Kieran Moroney 
Senior copywriter: Blair Panozza 
Senior art director: Mick Pollard 
Design director: Elliot Owen

Thinkerbell and beverage company Lion have launched a mid-autumn campaign for XXXX Summer Bright Lager to remind consumers you can drink the brew during any season.

The work is informed by the insight that, compared to other places in the world, the entire gamut of the Australian climate can still be loosely categorised as different shades of one season: summer.

To support the OOH and digital campaign, XXXX has introduced the Summer Bright Ice Bucket Hat. Both an ice bucket hat and an ice bucket, when flipped upside down, it becomes fully functional, beer-cooling hardware.

Punters will have the opportunity to win one of the functional fashion innovations through an Instagram competition in late April.

Lion’s head of marketing, core beer, Chris Allan, said launching a campaign for a summer beer in Australia “where summer never ends” was a great opportunity.

“For Australians it’s summer and the good life all year round, and even if you’re not in Queensland you can taste what it feels like anytime with a XXXX Summer,” he said.

Tom Wenborn, chief creative at Thinkerbell, added: “The Sunshine State doesn’t really have spring, autumn or that other one, it just feels like summer all year round. Maybe that’s why they end up creating their very own seasons.”

Earlier this week, the creative agency launched a new social campaign featuring US rapper Latto for Menulog, Talking Snack with Latto, which taps into rising TikTok trends with a three-part video series.

It also rolled out the first major work for private health fund Bupa, under its Healthcaring master brand platform, which was introduced in October last year.

See also:
Rapper Latto ‘Talks Snacks’ in Thinkerbell’s latest for Menulog
Bupa launches first major work for ‘Healthcaring’ platform via Thinkerbell

Credits:
Client: Lion
Creative agency: Thinkerbell
Media agency: UM
Digital agency: Affinity
Film production: Finch
Director: Arundati Thandur
Stills production: Alex Wall

Nine’s chief finance and strategy officer, Matt Stanton, has joined the Domain board.

He joins as a non-executive and non-independent director, effective today, and will continue his role at Nine alongside the Domain directorship. Nine is Domain’s majority shareholder, leading to Stanton’s non-independent director status.

The board said Stanton has “strong experience leading financial, transformation, and growth areas across a range of sectors.” Before he joined Nine in 2022, he was CEO of Barambah Organics, chief transformation officer at Woolworths, and CEO of Bauer Media, now known as Are Media.

“We look forward to working with him and having his expertise on the Domain board,” said Domain chair Nick Falloon.

Last year, Stanton spoke to Mediaweek about securing the rights to the Paralympics, and how the process differed to that of nabbing the Olympics rights.

“The way the process works is that they’re two different rights from two different bodies, so you’ve got to negotiate one before you go through the process with the other. It’s a bit of a strange process, but we were very keen as an organisation to secure both those rights.”

Nine has the Olympics locked until 2032 in Brisbane, but the Paralympics rights have only been secured for Paris 2024.

“We did the deal directly with the IOC for the Olympics, which was for a 10-year package including Brisbane, whereas we did this deal with the Australian Paralympic Committee [APC]. They bought the rights from the International Paralympic Committee [IPC] and were on-selling them, and they only had the Paris rights to sell.”

This week, Nine marked 100 days until the Paris 2024 Opening Ceremony by revealing its coverage plans for the Olympics. 9Now will have a new look and interface, Nine will launch five documentaries following various Olympics teams and athletes, and the team told media it will be the “biggest undertaking in the history of Nine” to create the “greatest Games of all time”.

Brisbane Radio Ratings
GfK Survey 2 2024
Survey Period: Sun Feb 4 to Sat Mar 30

UP: KIIS 973 +2.0
DOWN: B105 -1.9

B105 11.9% (13.8%)
Cume: 613,000 (-33,000)
2023 results Best (Worst)
Best 10+ 12.8% (11.1%)
Best Breakfast 14.3% (11.7%)

Ending 2023 in third, B105 has stayed at the top of the market despite a drop of 1.9 points for a share of 11.9%.

A drop of 3.1 points for the breakfast show of Stav, Abby and Matt sees the trio jump from first to second in the daypart with a 12.8% share

In Drive, Carrie Bickmore and Tommy Little have dropped 1.3 points for a share of 13.7%.

104.5 Triple M 11.8% (13.2%)
Cume: 523,000 (+4,000)
2023 results Best (Worst)
Best 10+ 13.3% (9.5%)
Best Breakfast 13.2% (9.2%)

Dropping 1.4 points, Triple M has recorded an 11.8% share.

The Big Breakfast with Margaux, Marto, and Dan Anstey was down 0.6 points to record a total share of 13.0%. The drive show, The Rush Hour with Liesel, Liam & Dobbo was down 1.8 points for a 11.4% share.

Nova 106.9 10.3% (11.4%)
Cume: 680,000 (-11,000)
2023 results Best (Worst)
Best 10+ 12.7% (11.6%)
Best Breakfast 14.1% (12.1%)

A dip of 1.1 points has seen Nova stay third in the market with a 10.3% share.

The breakfast team of Ash, Luttsy and Susie O’Neill has dropped 1.5 points, bringing them to a share of 10.9%.

The drive slot has dipped 1.5 points with the national team of Ricki-Lee, Tim and Joel finishing with 12.7%.

KIIS 97.3FM 10.2% (8.2%)
Cume: 546,000 (+27,000)
2023 results Best (Worst)
Best 10+ 11.8% (9.7%)
Best Breakfast 11.5% (9.5%)

Rising 2 points, KIIS has recorded a share of 10.2%. 

In breakfast,  Robin and Kip have lifted 1.4 points to record a 11.1% share. In drive, Will and Woody have lifted 2 points for a total of 9.7%.

4BH 9.5% (9.1%)
Cume: 202,000 (+16,000)
2023 results Best (Worst)
Best 10+ 9.8% (7.9%)
Best Breakfast 8.2% (6.6%)

4BH is up 0.4 points for 9.5%. In this survey, breakfast with Bob Gallagher is up 1.1 points for a 9.1% share.

The station has lost its top spot in the 65+ demo to 4BC this survey, but claimed the win in the 55-64 demo where it has a 23.7% share, up 2 points.

4BC 7.0% (6.5%)
Cume: 229,000 (+6,000)
2023 results Best (Worst)
Best 10+ 8.4% (6.2%)
Best Breakfast 9.0% (6.4%)

4BC has lifted 0.5 points in this survey for a share of 7.0%. Breakfast with Laurel, Gary and Mark has remained at a share of 7.5%.

In Mornings, Bill McDonald’s fourth survey in the slot recorded a share of 9.4%, up 0.7 points. 

In Drive, Peter Gleeson’s show is up 0.5 points for a 4.5% share.

SENQ 0.6% (0.5%)
Cume: 40,000 (+3,000)
2023 results Best (Worst)
Best 10+ 1.1% (0.3%)
Best Breakfast 1.4% (0.2%)

Survey two has seen SENQ lift 0.1 points for a 0.6% share. Cume has lifted 3,000, up to 40,000. Breakfast with Pat and Heals is down 0.1 points for a share of 0.8%.

Brisbane Radio Ratings:

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Adelaide Radio Ratings
GfK Survey 2 2024
Survey Period: Sun Feb 4 to Sat Mar 30

UP: MIX 102.3 +1.0
DOWN: NOVA 91.9 -1.3

Mix 102.3 14.3% (13.3%)
Cume: 378,000 (+19,000)

Mix 102.3 keeps the number one slot in Adelaide, rising 1.0 points to take a 14.3% share. 

Max & Ali in the Morning rose by 1.0 points for an 12.8% share. The station’s strongest time slot in this survey is now the Morning slot, with a 15.3% share, rising 1.5 points.

See Also: “We want to be the best”: What 2023 holds for the Ali Clarke Breakfast Show

The station decreased by 1.3 points in the 55-64 demo. Mix 102.3 saw a 2.1-point increase in the 25-39 demo. 

5MMM 12.4% (11.6%)
Cume: 289,000 (+7,000)
2023 results Best (Worst)
Best 10+ 14.9% (10.7%)
Best Breakfast 16.9% (12.2%)

Adelaide’s Triple M station has stayed in the second position for survey two, with an 12.4% share.

The breakfast team of Roo, Ditts, and Loz dropped by 0.3 points, to a total of 14.9%, keeping first among the commercial networks.

Among the 25-39 demographic, 5MMM lifted by 4.6 points for a 10.7% share and ended up in the fourth position for that demo. 

Nova 91.9 10.0% (11.3%) 
Cume: 369,000 (+10,000)
2023 results Best (Worst)
Best 10+ 12.1% (9.3%)
Best Breakfast 11.7% (9.1%)

Nova started 2023 in the second spot on the Adelaide Radio Ratings but has stayed in third in the second survey. 

The network’s biggest rise in the demos was in 18-24 with 0.4 points for a 22.8% share.

See Also: Bringing the laughs on air and off air with Adelaide’s Jodie & Hayesy

Ricki Lee, Tim & Joel in Adelaide’s drive spot has dropped 1.3 points with a 12.4% share.

Nova still continues to dominate in the 18-24 demos, rising 0.4 points for a 22.8% share and has dropped 0.9 points in 40-54 for a 8.4% share.

SAFM 9.0% (8.9%)
Cume: 294,000 (+19,000)
2023 results Best (Worst)
Best 10+ 10.1% (8.7%)
Best Breakfast 10.6% (8.2%)

SAFM has lifted by 0.1 points for a share of 9.0%. 

In this survey, the breakfast slot lifted 0.3 points for an 8.2% share.

Carrie Bickmore and Tommy Little’s national drive show dropped by 0.6 points, staying third in the Adelaide market. 

SAFM has increased in the 25-39 demographic by 2.3 points for 15.8%.

Cruise 1323 8.7% (8.6%)
Cume: 197,000 (-10,000)
2023 results Best (Worst)
Best 10+ 9.1% (8.3%)
Best Breakfast 7.9% (6.6%)

Cruise 1323 rose by 0.1 points for an 8.7% share. 

Craig Huggins’ drive has risen 0.5 points for a share of 7.3%. The station stayed in second in the 55-64 demographic with a 14.7% share and decreased by 0.2 points in the 40-54 demo.

FIVEaa 7.9% (8.2%)
Cume: 139,000 (+8,000)
2023 results Best (Worst)
Best 10+ 9.7% (7.5%)
Best Breakfast 14.2% (10.9%)

FIVEaa has recorded a decrease of 0.3 points and a total share of 7.9%.

In the breakfast slot, David and Will have dropped 0.8 points for a total share of 11.8%. The network’s breakfast program has dropped to third place in the Adelaide market. In drive, Rowey and Timmy G have a 1.1 point increase, their total share now being 6.8%.

Adelaide Radio Ratings:

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Perth Radio Ratings
GfK Survey 2 2024
Survey Period: Sun Feb 4 to Sat Mar 30

UP: 92.9 Triple M: +0.8
DOWN: Mix 94.5 -0.3

Mix 94.5 15.3% (15.6%)
Cume: 617,000 (+41,000)
2023 results Best (Worst)
Best 10+ 13.4% (11.1%)
Best Breakfast 13.8% (10.4%)

Hit Network’s Mix 94.5 has stayed in first place in Perth rising despite dropping 0.3 points with a share of 15.3%.

Mix 94.5’s breakfast lineup of Pete and Kymba – Matt Dyktynski left the show in September – has dropped by 2.1 points for a 13.2% share, placing second in the breakfast slot in this survey.

The national drive show of Carrie Bickmore and Tommy Little has remained at 17.4%, keeping first in the drive slot.

Nova 93.7 14.6% (14.0%)
Cume: 671,000 (+30,000)
2023 results Best (Worst)
Best 10+ 18.1% (13.2%)
Best Breakfast 22.5% (15.7%)

Nova’s Perth station has stayed in the second position, with a 0.6-point increase from the last survey. It now holds a 14.6% share.

For another survey, Nova’s Nathan, Nat & Shaun continue to top the Perth breakfast slot with a 18.3% share, rising 1.1 points. Nova’s national drive program of Ricki-Lee, Tim and Joel came in second with a 15.6% share, remaining stagnant from last survey.

See also: Dominating Perth Radio: In the studio with Nova’s Nathan, Nat and Shaun

96FM 12.4% (12.4%)
Cume: 501,000 (+16,000)
2023 results Best (Worst)
Best 10+ 15.3% (12.1%)
Best Breakfast 13.4% (9.8%)

The station started 2024 in third position with a 12.4% share, and has remained at that share for this survey. 

The station rose 4.3 points in the 10-17 demo, for 13.2%.

The station’s breakfast show, Clairsy and Lisa, increased by 0.1 points for a share of 11.1%. The national drive show of Will and Woody decreased 1.2 points in Perth for a 12.2% share.

92.9 Triple M 7.8% (7.0%)
Cume: 374,000 (+11,000)
2023 results Best (Worst)
Best 10+ 9.2% (6.1%)
Best Breakfast 9.1% (6.8%)

92.9 Triple M rose by 0.8 points, for a 7.8% share, staying fourth in stations. 

The station experienced a 2.9 decrease in the 40-54 demo to take a 7.3% share.

The breakfast team of Xav and Michelle have increased by 0.8 points in the breakfast slot, bringing in a share of 8.2%.

Katie Lamb and Andrew ‘Embers’ Embley’s drive show slot increased 0.6 points for a 7.5% share.

6PR 5.5% (5.3%)
Cume: 207,000 (+15,000)
2023 results Best (Worst)
Best 10+ 7.2% (5.8%)
Best Breakfast 11.5% (8.8%)

Nine’s Perth Radio station dropped 0.2 points from the first survey of 2024 for a 5.5% share.

6PR Breakfast with Millsy and Karl increased by 0.5 points for an 8.2% share.

6iX 4.2% (4.2%)
Cume: 159,000 (+11,000)
2023 results Best (Worst)
Best 10+ 5.3% (3.7%)
Best Breakfast 4.9% (2.7%)

6iX has stayed at a 4.2% share.

The station’s breakfast slot with Westo and Nat rose by 0.3 points for a 4.6% share.

Perth Radio Ratings:

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‘Obsessed’ is a monthly deep dive into social and cultural trends that can help marketers inform the way they think. Led by Kate O’Loughlin, Initiative strategist and self-confessed obsessive, ‘Obsessed’ will be a magic school bus to expand marketing mindsets and help brands remain relevant amongst an ever-changing cultural landscape.

This month, I’ve been obsessed with Jojo Siwa’s release of “Karma” and her new personal brand of goth-girl-grunge-queer-pop-rock singer.

While there is nothing wrong with celebrities or influencers rebranding as they enter a new phase in their life, the internet collectively cringed while watching Siwa make continual PR blunders across a series of interviews promoting her new song.

Child stardom is a sensitive and nuanced topic, and I truly can’t understand what it would be like growing up as a kid in the public image. Teen stars have a fraught history in their transition into adulthood and it would be remiss to not address the unimaginable scrutiny and pressure they face in doing so.

However, it’s not the rebrand itself that’s raised eyebrows, but rather the seeming lack of authenticity and consistency for Siwa’s new image.

But who is Jojo Siwa? For those who didn’t grow up watching Dance Moms, it was on this series that Siwa found her stardom and was propelled to fame as the ‘bow girl’. From here, she became a YouTube creator and Nickelodeon star, and in 2021 she began a move away from the Nick scene after coming out as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community.

While Siwa had been teasing the shift in her image across her socials for the last few months, a recent interview with Billboard at the GLAAD Media Awards caused an immediate stir. Siwa announced that: “No one has made this dramatic of a change yet. No one has made, in my generation, this extreme of a switch. I am the first in the generation, it is very scary, but someone’s gotta do it.”

Siwa has since claimed to create a new genre called “gay pop”, and while she acknowledged some of her predecessors (see: Miley Cyrus), she did also announce she was looking forward to bringing “this era back”.

Commenters have been quick to call out the powerful LGBTQIA+ artists who have come before Siwa such as Chappell Roan, Elton John, Kim Petras, and Sam Smith.

So she ditched the bows, caused a stir online, and released a song… why should you care? Siwa’s unsteady rebrand carries lessons that can (and should) be considered by any marketer looking to shake up their brand’s image.

Commit to the bit.

While Siwa’s choice of language and demeanour seemingly shows a full commitment to the grunge image, she is still driving the car she chose to wrap with her childhood face during peak bow-era.

The outfits and image she’s currently adopting are really an iteration of her previous life, just with slightly more skin showing and black glitter instead of rainbow. At her core, she still appears to be the same old Jojo.

A brand that is looking to transition its image to an entirely new demographic needs to do so fully and wholeheartedly, without leaving a remnant of what once was. Pivoting the look, tone, feel and characteristics of an entirely new persona will help audiences make a quick transition into accepting the new brand image.

Work with your audience.

Siwa’s lack of acknowledgement of the history and cultural importance of the queer artists who came before her has (fairly) caused uproar amongst LGBTQIA+ fans. While artists who have made similar transitions have embraced “camp” culture, Siwa’s image seems like a stereotype of a ‘bad girl’ image – lots of black, and slightly punk rock.

When rebranding, marketers should work with their audience through a clear and thorough testing process. This ensures that the final brand image resonates with the ideal target market and minimises the risk of rejection.

Transparency is key.

The most recent piece to the Siwa rebrand puzzle has been the discovery that her song “Karma” is, in fact, a cover, and not Jojo’s own song. The song was originally recorded by Matisse in 2012, however was never released. While Siwa has not claimed to write the song herself, she has not publicly acknowledged the near like-for-like exactness of the lyrics (as of 11 April 2024 at least).

It’s critical that companies are fully honest and transparent throughout the entire rebranding process. Audiences are cautious when adjusting to a new look and it’s critical to be upfront about any changes in process or product as soon as they occur.

While I don’t know if I’ll be rushing to listen to the rest of Siwa’s album, I will certainly be watching her next moves. Ultimately, despite the trials and tribulations, I do wish her success. After all, she must be doing something right since the internet can’t seem to look away… which is really all any brand wants from a rebrand, right?

See also:
Kate O’Loughlin: Marketing lessons from the rise of run clubs
Kate O’Loughlin: The Carnival World Cruise: brand titanic… or life raft?

Top image: Kate O’Loughlin

Whether it’s a childhood jingle that you can still sing word for word, or a campaign that influences the way you work today, everyone has an ad that has really stuck with them.

Mediaweek has been asking the industry to take a trip down memory lane, to find out all about the ads that made us.

Jess Hope – Head of Growth & Innovation, Social Soup

McVitie’s Jaffa Cakes – Total Eclipse

“Whatever hat you wear in the media industry, whether you think creatively or see strictly in data points, delivering an ad that creates real-world behavioural change is the thing we’re chasing. If nothing else, it’s so we can finally explain our jobs to our families.

“In many ways, I blame Jaffa Cakes’ Total Eclipse for striking my early curiosity with advertising. I distinctly remember re-enacting the ‘full moon, half moon, total eclipse’ step by step – something that would now be a brilliantly simple social challenge – with friends and family. That idea has renewed my obsession with the ad in many ways.

“Having had my fair share of successes and even more failures in the 25 years since, landing a ‘playful’ moment that could be shared by all generations is a rare strike of genius: Eating Jaffa Cakes any other way would simply feel like a crime, which is exactly how you measure impact and effectiveness, in my opinion. The only way to top it would be the gluten-free version, but I’m biased (and coeliac).”

Richard Knott – GM ANZ, InfoSum

You Know When You’ve Been Tango’d

“If you’re a certain age and grew up in the UK, then everyone knows what it means to be “tango’d”. Quite literally.

“It was hugely popular to recreate this in school playgrounds (stealth slapping people around the head yelling ‘you’ve been tango’d) until anyone caught doing it was suspended. The ad became notorious. Schools were complaining and doctors were reporting that kids were presenting with perforated eardrums. The furore ultimately led to the ad being banned – to be subsequently remade with the slaps being replaced by a kiss.

“However, the original – responsible or not – is the one everyone remembers. The ad’s creators have been quoted as saying that word of mouth was their media spend as they didn’t have the budget to compete with the soft drink giants of the time. Well, they certainly nailed that. It’s a great example of something going viral in the pre-internet days.”

Olivia Hannah Matthews – Head of Brand Strategy, Enigma

Yellow Pages, French Polisher TVC

“Part of the iconic Yellow Pages brand work, which ran in the early ‘90s while I was at university and thinking about applying for my first gig at a London agency. Party time was all the time, so this ‘morning after the house party’ was right in my sweet spot.”

See Also: The Ads That Made Us: Dumb Ways to Die, Haribo Starmix, and Pixie Caramel

–

Top Image: Jess Hope, Richard Knott, Olivia Hannah Matthews

To submit an ad, please email [email protected]

Leo Burnett Australia has announced three new creative hires, appointing Lenna Boland as group creative director. James Beswick and Rowan Foxcroft also join the Publicis-owned creative agency as associate creative directors.

The news follows a series of significant promotions from Leo Burnett Australia, announced earlier this year.

Andy Fergusson was named chief creative officer in January following the departure of Kate Silver. Clare Pickens was announced as CEO in February.

Pickens began her tenure this month after relocating from Amsterdam to Australia.

Additionally, Julia Sheehan was named as the new general manager of Leo Burnett Melbourne, and Marijke Spain promoted to creative director.

Boland moves from Ogilvy in Melbourne, and will lead the creative output of Leo’s Melbourne-based clients, working with group creative directors Tim Woolford and Tommy Cehak in Sydney.

Over the past 20 years, her work has been recognised by Cannes Lions, LIAs, CLIO, Effies, and New York Festivals.

Fergusson praised Boland for managing to create award-winning work for big clients across some of the toughest categories, including the finance, insurance, FMCG, automotive, and retail sectors.

“We are thrilled that Lenna is joining the team in Melbourne,” he said. “She will inject a new energy into the already formidable Melbourne team.”

Bolen added that she’s “incredibly excited to be joining Andy Fergusson, Julia Sheehan, and the team at Leo Burnett.”

“Their enthusiasm for people, culture and clients, combined with their ambition and proven commitment to producing great work is infectious. It’s an energy and creative vision I’m super chuffed to now be a part of.”

The creative duo Beswick and Foxcroft join Leos as senior copywriter and art director, respectively. Their work has also been recognised at major festivals including Cannes, D&AD, AWARD, London International, and the Webbys.

Most recently, the pair were awarded Gold at One Show and a Grand Prix at Spikes Asia.

Fergusson said: “they have proven to be hard-working, fun and intelligent thinkers and have a couple of productions under their belt since joining.”

See more:
Leo Burnett Australia announces key leadership changes amid departure of Melbourne GM Kate Silver
Clare Pickens appointed CEO of Leo Burnett Australia by Publicis Groupe ANZ

–

Top Image (L-R): Lenna Boland, Andy Fergusson, and Julia Sheehan

Pedestrian Group has promoted Spyros Asteriou to head of partnerships, NSW to lead the company’s sales team in Sydney, with Tess Lastra joining to lead the sales team in Melbourne.

Asteriou has been with the group for over six years. He previously held the title of head of agency partnerships, NSW and prior to joining Pedestrian, was with JCDecaux.

See also: JCDecaux unveils first Aspire screen in Pyrmont

Lastra joins with experience in the Victorian media landscape, and over a decade-plus career with prominent Australian media organisations. She has helped sales and leadership positions at News Corp, Australian Radio Network, JCDecaux, and most recently at the OOH start-up Wrappr. 

Pedestrian Group’s chief commercial officer, Rachel Tikey, said, “As Pedestrian Group’s universe continues its evolution, I am delighted to appoint Spyros and Tess to these pivotal leadership roles.

“There are no two better leaders to mobilise our market-specific sales teams with Pedestrian Group’s vast offering. Both Spy and Tess epitomise excellence in our industry, have layered media sales experience, and extensive networks that trust and respect them. I know they will take the Pedestrian Group brands into their next era of commercial greatness.”

The sales appointments come as PEDESTRIAN TELEVISION on 9Now continues to grow, from 2 million minutes a month at launch, to a projected 16 million this April. 

Launched in October 2023, the app includes a mix of content, both created or curated by Pedestrian.  

PEDESTRIAN TELEVISION’s programming base is layered with original news and culture content from Pedestrian Group’s brands, particularly PEDESTRIAN.TV, VICE, Refinery29 and The Chainsaw, as well as a collaboration with The Betoota Advocate. 

See also: Pedestrian Group launches PEDESTRIAN TELEVISION

For Youth Homelessness Matters Day on Wednesday 17 April, HoMie teamed up with Melbourne independent Town Square to launch the ‘Give One. Get One’ promotional campaign.

Since 2015, HoMie has helped over 2,550 young people through its social impact programs.

Amplifying the Melbourne-based streetwear label‘s mission of supporting young people affected by homelessness or hardship, the work played on the traditional “buy one get one free” deal.

For every HoMie hoodie purchased on the day, fellow streetwear label Champion would donate a hoodie to a young person impacted by homelessness.

Homie’s chief executive officer, Steph Say, said the ‘Give one. Get One.’ promotion “is not just about selling hoodies, it’s about creating a moment for our community to show solidarity for young people affected by homelessness in a meaningful, tangible way.

“Every purchase becomes a statement, the community coming together to give back, reminding Australia that giving isn’t a chore, but something that can be cool, empowering, and, most importantly, fun.”

Alison Ray, Town Square’s general manager, praised HoMie for the difference it was making to the lives of young people affected by homelessness.

“As a proudly Melbourne-based agency, it’s an honour to be part of such a great initiative for this Melbourne streetwear brand and one that ties in with our passion for tackling homelessness,” she said.

The campaign was supported across out of home, print, digital display, social and radio, plus in-store activations that gave buyers the chance to be shot by the campaign photographer, which were then used as assets to fuel an earned social strategy.

Last year, a number of initiatives from adland launched in an effort to combat youth homelessness.

In August, native advertising platform, Taboola, strengthened its ties with Youth Off The Streets charity in partnering with social purpose organisation, UnLtd.

And brand design agency Hulsbosch led the rebrand of youth homelessness charity, Lighthouse Foundation, which undertook a major expansion in 2023.

See also:
Taboola partners with UnLtd for Youth Off The Streets
Hulsbosch unveils rebrand for Lighthouse Foundation ahead of expansion in 2023

Credits:
Client: HoMie
CEO: Steph Say
HoMie Co-Founder and Creative Director: Marcus Crook
Creative agency: Town Square
Executive creative director: Brendan Day
Art director: Peter Crawford
Copywriter: Sam Nicolaci
Strategist: Jeff Malone
Client lead: Alastair Langsford 

ThinkNewsBrands, in collaboration with the Independent Media Agencies of Australia (IMAA), has continued its in-person education rollout of the Publishing and News101 learning module, extendeding its reach to independent media agencies in Brisbane.

Queensland becomes the second state after New South Wales to benefit from the in-person training and certification program.

The program delved into Australia’s news publishing media landscape, spotlighting news websites, news apps, category content publications, and printed news.

It also included an industry expert Q&A session with editor of Nine’s Brisbane Times, Sean Parnell, and News Corp Australia’s agency sales manager, Tara Duncan.

The panel session covered topics ranging from the evolution and breadth of developing editorial content, to the enhanced integration of audience-led insights for both editorial and commercial teams. The panellists also explored modern-day approaches to ensuring journalistic integrity is always maintained, as well as how agency teams can collaborate with news publishers to achieve greater outcomes for their clients.

Vanessa Lyons, ThinkNewsBrands CEO, highlighted the importance of education and professional development in the industry.

“We are proud to have extended our Publishing & News101 module to independent media agencies in both Queensland and New South Wales, impacting a significant number of professionals in the industry.

“As we look ahead, we remain committed to expanding this educational series across Australia, empowering even more individuals to unlock the full potential of news publishing media.”

IMAA’s CEO, Sam Buchanan, noted that the industry body is committed to aligning the media industry with one training program, which he called the “driving force behind creating the IMAA Academy.”

“We sincerely appreciate the collaborative effort of ThinkNewsBrands and our media publishers Seven West Media, News Corp Australia, and Nine in introducing the Publishing & News101 module directly to the Queensland market. This partnership underscores the significance of this channel and its integral role within the marketing mix.

“Yesterday’s event attendance emphasised the market’s growing interest in the advancements within publishing and news, highlighting its importance as a channel worthy of exploration, and we are excited to continue its rollout.”

Wavemaker Australia has welcomed two Wavemaker US employees to the Sydney office as part of its global talent exchange program, Provocative Pioneers.

The Provocative Pioneers cultural program aims to enhance collaboration, inspiration, and connection between the agency’s offices around the world to elevate global client knowledge.
 
Provocative Pioneers is open to top-performing employees on global client teams for a two-week knowledge-sharing visit in another Wavemaker market, where they become immersed in the local team and culture.

Over the next two weeks, Los Angeles-based Melissa Saroyan, programmatic media director, and New York-based Tatiana Patrón, client investment lead, will be embedded with the Wavemaker Sydney team for an insider’s perspective on the unique challenges of the local market.

The experience will be reciprocated, with Wavemaker Sydney’s group director Peter Andrew heading to the Los Angeles office to meet the team later this month.

The LA-Sydney talent exchange follows a successful pilot program between the New York and London offices in October 2023.

Tatiana Patrón, Peter Andrew and Melissa Saroyan

Wavemaker ANZ CEO Peter Vogel called the Provocative Pioneers program an “amazing initiative that breaks down borders and allows our top talent to immerse themselves in the culture of our international offices.”

“It’s an exceptional opportunity that Wavemaker can offer, and we’re thrilled to host Missie and Tatiana here in Sydney and excited for Peter Andrew to join our colleagues in LA later this month,” Vogel said.

“What makes this program unique is the way we are bringing the client along for the journey, magnifying the lessons for all involved. It’s an exceptional opportunity that we can offer.

“We should never underestimate the positive impact of knowledge sharing when it comes to building skills and unlocking connections for the benefit of our clients and our people.”

Patrón and Saroyan called the program an “exciting and amazing experience”.

“We take pride in working for a company that consistently fosters initiatives like this, which promotes knowledge sharing. The ability to share our ideas and best practices across the globe has been immensely beneficial and insightful for both the US and Australian teams.

“Whether it’s sharing ideas or being inspired by fresh perspectives, the value of this cross-cultural exchange cannot be overstated. Through this program, we’ve not only gained invaluable insights but also forged meaningful connections.”

Jessica Maley, chief people officer of Wavemaker North America, added that the program sparks “innovation and global collaboration” within the global agency.

“It’s about empowering our teams, enriching client experiences, and driving growth worldwide. As we expand this program, we’re committed to pushing boundaries, fostering talent, and delivering exceptional results.”

Paramount Pictures marketing director Erin O’Neill said Paramount was pleased to be part of the Pioneers Program and called it an “invaluable opportunity for Paramount Pictures Australia to connect with Wavemaker’s talented team from LA and New York.”

“Through this partnership, we have gained fresh insights and perspectives and helped continue to strengthen our global projects. We are grateful for Wavemaker’s commitment to nurturing their talent and fostering global collaboration,” she added.

Wavemaker is working with its client leaders to identify the most suitable clients and markets for its next Provocative Pioneers exchange.

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Top image: Tatiana Patrón and Melissa Saroyan

Wednesday 17 Apr 2024: VOZ Total TV Ratings Overnight Top 30 – Programs ranked on reach

Total People TV Ratings

Nine’s A Current Affair recorded a total TV national reach of 1,483,000, a total TV national audience of 1,006,000, and a BVOD audience of 63,000.

Also on Nine, Gordon Ramsay’s Food Stars recorded a total TV national reach of 1,219,000, a total TV national audience of 424,000, and a BVOD audience of 44,000.

The Front Bar on Seven recorded a total TV national reach of 1,183,000, a total TV national audience of 557,000, and a BVOD audience of 24,000.

Home and Away, also on Seven, recorded a total TV national reach of 1,269,000, a total TV national audience of 819,000, and a BVOD audience of 96,000.

10’s airing of I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! recorded a total TV national reach of 1,278,000, a total TV national audience of 641,000, and a BVOD audience of 56,000.

See also: TV Ratings 16 April 2024: The farmers faced a heartbreaking decision during Farmer Wants A Wife

People 25-54

Nine’s A Current Affair:
• Total TV nation reach: 423,000
• National Audience: 267,000
• BVOD Audience: 17,000

Nine’s Gordon Ramsay’s Food Stars:
• Total TV nation reach: 461,000
• National Audience: 163,000
• BVOD Audience: 27,000

Seven’s Home and Away:
• Total TV nation reach: 394,000
• National Audience: 253,000
• BVOD Audience: 55,000

Seven’s The Front Bar:
• Total TV nation reach: 418,000
• National Audience: 206,000
• BVOD Audience: 14,000

10’s I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!:
• Total TV nation reach: 525,000
• National Audience: 285,000
• BVOD Audience: 34,000

People 16-39

Nine’s A Current Affair:
• Total TV nation reach: 158,000
• National Audience: 102,000
• BVOD Audience: 18,000

Nine’s Gordon Ramsay’s Food Stars:
• Total TV nation reach: 199,000
• National Audience: 64,000
• BVOD Audience: 15,000

Seven’s Home and Away:
• Total TV nation reach: 188,000
• National Audience: 113,000
• BVOD Audience: 34,000

Seven’s The Front Bar:
• Total TV nation reach: 159,000
• National Audience: 79,000
• BVOD Audience: 8,000

10’s I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!:
• Total TV nation reach: 213,000
• National Audience: 115,000
• BVOD Audience: 23,000

Grocery Shoppers 18+

Nine’s A Current Affair:
• Total TV nation reach: 1,151,000
• National Audience: 784,000
• BVOD Audience: 50,000

Nine’s Gordon Ramsay’s Food Stars:
• Total TV nation reach: 926,000
• National Audience: 326,000
• BVOD Audience: 35,000

Seven’s Home and Away:
• Total TV nation reach: 984,000
• National Audience: 648,000
• BVOD Audience: 77,000

Seven’s The Front Bar:
• Total TV nation reach: 941,000
• National Audience: 450,000
• BVOD Audience: 19,000

10’s I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!:
• Total TV nation reach: 965,000
• National Audience: 486,000
• BVOD Audience: 45,000

Data © OzTAM and Regional TAM 2024. Not to be reproduced, published or communicated (electronically or in hard copy) in whole or in part, without prior written consent of OzTAM and Regional TAM.

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Top image: Gordon Ramsay

TV Report 18 April 2024:

Nine TV Report

NRL – Storm v Roosters

Nine’s draw for the night was the Melbourne Storm vs the Sydney Roosters, which saw the Storm take out the close game, ending with an 18-12 win at Allianz Stadium in Sydney. Storm winger Xavier Coates won the game for the Storm with a game-winning try at six minutes remaining in the game. 

A Current Affair

Over on A Current Affair, the program spoke to PM Anthony Albanese as he revealed the visa fate of the Pakistani security guard stabbed in the Bondi attack and met with a young mum whose banned from using Uber because of her name. 

Seven TV Report

AFL – Bulldogs vs St Kilda

On Seven, the Western Bulldogs went up against St Kilda at Marvel Stadium, with the Bulldogs ending up taking the win, smashing St Kilda by 60 points.

Home & Away

Earlier in the night was Home & Away as Rose felt the weight of unwanted responsibility and Dana was determined to help Harper.

10 TV Report

The Project

The Project on 10 spoke to three celebrity guests including Stephen Sanchez, Stephen K. Amos and Jamie Oliver.

I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!

On 10’s I’m A Celebrity, beloved duo Ellie Cole and Brittany Hockley were farewelled from the South African Jungle. 

Hockley’s time in the jungle was in support of RizeUp, which helps women escape dangerous situations and gives them a fresh start with housing, donations, help, appliances, and more. 

Cole’s time in the jungle was in support of Challenge, a charity which supports children and families living with cancer.

ABC

7:30

7:30’s Sarah Ferguson interviewed Treasurer Jim Chalmers and looked into the horror of the Bondi Junction murders and how it has raised questions about mental health support. 

SBS

Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy

Actor Stanley Tucci visited Puglia, a region famous for its fragrant olive oil, beautiful vegetables, cheeses, and durum wheat.