Seven West Media has confirmed the departure of three of its senior executives, naming a number of new appointments and a new operating model in the wake of redundancies and other cost actions at the network.

Under the new model, SWM will have three divisions: Television, Digital, and Western Australia.

Chief revenue officer, Kurt Burnette, chief marketing officer, Melissa Hopkins, and head of sport and managing director of Seven Melbourne, Lewis Martin are confirmed to be exiting the business, with  SWM MD and CEO, Jeff Howard saying he “sincerely thank Kurt, Lewis, and Mel for their contributions to Seven and they leave with our best wishes for the future.”

“Combined they represent more than 65 years of experience at Seven and it is always very disappointing when such changes have to be made. Our focus, however, is on ensuring Seven West Media’s structure matches our strategy to optimise television, deliver our digital future, find new revenue streams and manage our costs responsibly.”

See also: Seven West Media redundancies: Three of network’s top executives exit

Leadership appointments at Seven

Seven’s chief content officer, entertainment programming, Angus Ross, has been appointed Group MD, Seven Television. 

SWM chief digital officer Gereurd Roberts has been appointed Group MD, Seven Digital. 

Maryna Fewster continues as CEO, SWM Western Australia, responsible for SWM’s broadcast, digital and print brands in that market.

Trent Dickeson, currently director of operations and transformation, has been appointed to the new role of chief operating officer. 

Acting chief financial officer Craig Haskins has been appointed chief financial officer.

Previously director of content scheduling, Brook Hall has been appointed as Seven Network’s chief content officer.

Seven Adelaide managing director Vikki Friscic has been appointed head of sales strategy and enablement.

Howard said: “To build a better media business and to make the most of the opportunities ahead of us, we need to change the way we think and operate. That includes changing the way our executive team is structured and how it works together.

“We’re setting up new, accountable and transparent profit centres for our Television and Digital business units. The dedicated, end-to-end digital business unit will make sure we capture all the growth digital is going to deliver. Television and Digital will work very closely with our content teams to ensure we maximise the digital growth opportunity as it develops.  We’re also appointing a chief operating officer to drive continuous improvement and efficiencies.

“We now have three clear divisions covering Television, Digital and WA. They will be supported by executives and teams working across all three to achieve stronger cooperation, consistency and the best possible results for everyone,” he said.

On Tuesday, Seven announced redundancies saw the company axe up to 150 jobs after the network flagged further cost-cutting exercises in February, by then-CFO Jeff Howard and former CEO James Warburton. Howard stepped up to the CEO role of Seven West Media after Warburton officially left the post on April 18.

These redundancies are not limited to any one division, with journalists from the television and print divisions, sales and marketing roles, as well as printing roles to be cut.

News of the job cuts come days after Seven journalist Robert Ovadia was sacked by the network after an internal investigation was conducted into allegations of inappropriate behaviour.

In an interview with The Australian, the Sydney-based crime reporter confirmed he had been fired after 23 years with the network.

“Yes I’ve been sacked and there will be more to say about that in the appropriate forum at the appropriate time,” Ovadia told The Australian.

Other recent exits include Craig McPherson, who stepped down after Seven’s Spotlight program became embroiled in Bruce Lehrmann‘s failed defamation battle against 10 and Lisa Wilkinson. Replacing him in April was Anthony De Ceglie, appointed Seven West Media’s new director of news and current affairs.

In the wake of ex-Spotlight producer Taylor Auerbach‘s evidence, EP Mark Llewellyn also left the network.

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Top image: Jeff Howard

Seven’s confirmation of the departures of Kurt Burnette, Melissa Hopkins, and Lewis Martin has surprised the industry.

This has been compounded by the news of the network’s refreshed operating model, a slew of leadership promotions in the wake of redundancies, and reportedly around 150 roles.

Stephen Wright, global media business director of TrinityP3, told Mediaweek: “It’s no secret that television is facing headwinds, both cyclical and structural, and Seven is responding to those market conditions sensibly by seeking to reduce cost.”

“With Meta withdrawing from the news media bargaining code and an increasingly competitive streaming landscape radical medicine is needed to treat the patient.”

“The challenge for Seven will be that Kurt, Mel and Lewis are all well regarded veterans of the industry who each held key relationships for Seven and trust throughout the market. Marketers will be seeking reassurance about the audience strategy and Seven’s ability to deliver for brands in the wake of these senior departures.”

Meanwhile, Ben Shepherd, CEO of Schwartz Media, had nothing but kind words for Burnette. He told Mediaweek: “Kurt Burnette is one of the best leaders I’ve dealt with in business and his departure is a complete shock to me and I imagine the rest of the industry. Exceptional talent is rare and Kurt is one of those.”

Mat Baxter, CEO of Mutinex, told Mediaweek it was “interesting to see stable, credible, trusted people leaving.”

Kurt Burnette

On the outlook for Seven, he said that the network’s future comes down to who they will interface with at a market level, who will cheerlead the brand and represent them to the top CMOs in leading blue chip companies across Australia.

On Burnette’s departure, Baxter said: “He’s a consummate statesman. He’s well-regarded and well-respected, and he knows the brand inside out. He’s got trustworthy and long-term relationships with advertisers.

Speaking broadly on the leadership stability Seven needs after a turbulent couple of months, Baxter said: “There has been a recent tendency for companies to look to financial leaders to take broader stewardship of the wider company and the strategic direction of the business.

“One of the challenges that sits historically in the finance function is a very short term view on immediate performance and short-term margin as opposed to long-term strategic direction, and often the investment that’s required to realise those opportunities.

“So my concern always when I interface with businesses that have a financial leader, directing the wider organisational mission and charter is often quarterly performance trumps long-term vision, direction and sustainability.

“You can juice an orange only so much quarter by quarter, and then if that’s at the expense of longer term planning and vision, inevitably you run out of steam.”

“Right now, it seems like they’ve extracted the market interface that they need to re-energise the revenue that they’re short off. I think that’s what everyone’s going to be waiting with bated breath to see.”

Melissa Hopkins

On Wednesday, Seven West Media managing director and CEO, Jeff Howard said: “I’d sincerely thank Kurt, Lewis, and Mel for their contributions to Seven and they leave with our best wishes for the future.

“Combined they represent more than 65 years of experience at Seven and it is always very disappointing when such changes have to be made. Our focus, however, is on ensuring Seven West Media’s structure matches our strategy to optimise television, deliver our digital future, find new revenue streams and manage our costs responsibly.”

Seven’s head of sport Lewis Martin

In addition to the redundancies and departures of Burnette, Hopkins and Martin, the network revealed its new operating model which sees Seven have three divisions: Television, Digital, and Western Australia.

Howard said: “To build a better media business and to make the most of the opportunities ahead of us, we need to change the way we think and operate. That includes changing the way our executive team is structured and how it works together.

“We’re setting up new, accountable and transparent profit centres for our Television and Digital business units. The dedicated, end-to-end digital business unit will make sure we capture all the growth digital is going to deliver. Television and Digital will work very closely with our content teams to ensure we maximise the digital growth opportunity as it develops. We’re also appointing a Chief Operating Officer to drive continuous improvement and efficiencies.

“We now have three clear divisions covering Television, Digital and WA. They will be supported by executives and teams working across all three to achieve stronger cooperation, consistency and the best possible results for everyone,” he said. 

See also: Seven West Media: New divisions and leadership roles in wake of redundancies

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Top image: Mat Baxter, Stephen Wright and Ben Shepherd

Elliott Knight, APAC SMB director, Microsoft Advertising, has told Mediaweek that Generative AI has “reached a pivotal point” in its journey, moving “from experimentation into business transformation.”

Speaking on the Mediaweek Heavy Hitters podcast, Knight was joined by Dan Stevens, GM digital, Compare the Market; Kellyn Coetzee, national head of AI and insights, Kinesso Australia; and Mediaweek editor Brittney Rigby in a discussion about what AI meands for the advertising industry.

Listen to the podcast here.

For Microsoft in particular, Knight said there were three main ways that Microsoft and its customers are using Gen AI. The first is creating more engaging experiences, then democratising AI, and using AI as a collaborative partner.

Knight: “At Microsoft, we envisage a world where everyone will have a Copilot or an everyday AI companion – and Microsoft already has Copiloted many of our products such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, and of course Search. With Copilot, we’re reinventing search by understanding complex queries, and synthesising information to give consumers what they want.”

For brands, the introduction of AI has resulted in a boost in business performance, with Knight saying “on average advertisers on our platform last quarter saw around a 265% increase in clicks compared to the previous year.”

Knight: “From a user’s perspective, people are making purchase decisions faster, reducing the journey from around 30 days to just over 20 when using Copilot. When a user’s journey incorporates both Microsoft Copilot and traditional search, there’s a notable 30% lift in aggregate click-through rate, indicating that the synergy between search experiences is actually driving incremental value. 

“We’re also seeing strong engagement with ads being shown in Copilot compared to standard search. One of the unique ad formats in chat, which is multimedia ads, has seen triple the click-through rates compared to traditional search engine results.”

It’s growth that Stevens has also seen. With a front-row seat to the way that AI has impacted the way people are comparing products, he adds that “Gen AI is the next evolution of the way that consumers conduct search.”

Stevens: “We’ve gone from short keyword strokes that have been very specific about what we’re looking for, and with Gen AI we’re seeing more complex search queries being able to be answered so much quicker.

“Platforms can deliver those answers far quicker, and be more relevant for every single user – from our perspective, that’s very exciting. From a broader context, we anticipate that over the coming years, as these platforms improve, we’ll start to see search proliferate, we’ll start to see people move away from specific short keyword strings to more complex keyword queries.”

In terms of Gen AI enhancing digital marketing strategies and content creation, Coetzee predicted that the way that agencies specifically would take advantage of AI is “creative at scale”. 

Coetzee: “We have different types of creative, and are feeding it all the different types of formats that then ultimately feed the algorithms,” she said.

“When we think of Gen AI, we are constantly thinking of creative, but for me, AI is actually based in platforms, algorithms, and machine learning. To be able to give it a lot more creative to choose from means those algorithms are going to work better for us.”

Finally, Knight predicts that the future will see employers both seeking out people who can use AI skillfully as well as working to create a workforce literate in the use of the technology.

Knight: “Organisations that apply AI to drive growth, manage costs, or just deliver great value to customers will pull ahead. I think employers will be looking for people with AI skills, but I also think they’re going to be upskilling existing employees too.”

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Top Image: Elliott Knight, Dan Stevens, Kellyn Coetzee

Tim Fung, CEO of Australian outsourcing company Airtasker says in a time when a lot of businesses are economically getting on the defensive and taking a step back, it’s a time for his company to be on the front foot. 

Speaking to Mediaweek following the announcement of Airtasker’s $6m media partnership with oOh!media, Fung said that for the last two and a half years, the company has been focused on profitability, not marketing.

“We have had a marketing budget of less than $2 million per year, over the past two and a half years or so. We have been incredibly lean,” he said.

“We’ve been able to maintain prompted brand awareness at about 64%, and that’s been incredibly stable over the last two and a half years, even though we have leaned down on above-the-line brand investment.”

Airtasker provides an online and mobile marketplace enabling users to outsource everyday tasks, and Fung says it’s oOh!media partnership will give the company huge firepower to invest in not only prompted brand awareness, but he thinks even more importantly, unprompted brand awareness.

Tim Fung, CEO

“It really is a brand where if you realise you’re bathroom is messy, or when you need a repair to your roof, or if you’ve got a drone stuck in a tree, then we want Airtasker top of mind.”

The terms of the partnership provide Airtasker with $6m in oOh!media inventory in exchange for a 2-year $5m convertible note with a 5.8% coupon rate – listed as the Note.

At maturity, Airtasker has the option to convert the outstanding Note and coupon into ordinary shares at a 10% discount to Airtasker’s 30-trading day volume-weighted average share price or repay the outstanding Note and coupon in cash.

The partnership will enable Airtasker to scale in a capital-efficient way through access to oOh!media’s over 35,000 sites across Australia including billboards, street furniture, airports, office towers and retail centres.

Airtasker was founded in 2012 by Fung, and he admits when the company was founded, it did not have a media strategy or a media budget.

“The first four or five years of Airtasker was about building the network effect and getting from zero to one as a marketplace.

“Frankly, 99% of what we did, did not work in those first four years. However, in 2016, we partnered up with one of Australia’s television firms, and we really learned the power of being able to build a brand.”

Airtasker partnered with Seven West Media in 2016, and Seven secured a 15 per cent shareholding. It provided media support and investment to drive brand awareness while also implementing an integrated TV sponsorship and digital support across Seven’s content and brands.

“Over the five years between 2016 and 2021 [with Seven], we were able to increase brand awareness from 6% to over 60% and 20X our revenue during that period.

“Then when we exited that network from the cap table, we wrote them a check for close to $43 million dollars, which was 5x on what they put in. 

“What we learned from that is you have to have the courage to be able to invest in your brand upfront. Building a brand is much more about a long-term investment, it requires some courage, and it does require a capital-efficient model and that’s what this [oOh!media] deal represents.”

See also: Airtasker joins forces with oOh!media in $6m media partnership

The ABC and The Sydney Morning Herald is today paying tribute to Judith Whelan. As a journalist, she was the editor of The Sydney Morning Herald for a time. Later she worked as an ABC executive. Whelan has died aged 62 after a long battle with cancer.

The newspaper she once edited reported: Whelan died at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital surrounded by husband Christopher Henning, daughter Sophia and son Patrick. She had been battling cancer for several years.

Herald editor Bevan Shields said Whelan was adored by the newsroom.

“Judith was a wonderful editor, colleague and friend,” he said. “She was at the Herald for more than three decades and remains part of our DNA. We are heartbroken by her death.

“She had a finely tuned news radar but also revelled in journalism that could entertain and inform readers. She was a natural leader and a beautiful person. Our thoughts are with Chris, Sophia and Patrick.”

Lisa Davies, the Herald editor between 2017 and 2021, said Whelan had “journalism in her veins”.

Whelan edited Good Weekend for seven years before first editing the flagship Saturday edition of The Sydney Morning Herald, later moving up to edit the weekday newspaper.

See also: Judith Whelan, former Herald editor and ABC executive, remembered as a trailblazer for women

Former SMH editors Amanda Wilson, Lisa Davies and Judith Whelan pictured in 2021 to mark the Herald’s 190th birthday. Photo: James Brickwood/The SMH

The ABC has noted Whelan was first appointed director, Regional and Local before moving to the ABC editorial director role in 2022.

Mediaweek profiled Whelan toward the end of 2021. It coincided with her being included in the first Mediaweek 100 Power List.

ABC’s former head of radio Michael Mason brought Judith Whelan into the organisation originally as head of spoken word networks.

Speaking to Mediaweek about the change of sectors, Judith Whelan admitted she started “on a steep learning curve”.

Michelle Guthrie was ABC managing director at the time and shortly after Whelan arrived the broadcaster was restructured from platforms into genres. Whelan was given a role as head of specialist which included Radio National (RN) and TV and radio programming covering arts, science, health & technology, religion, education, and included podcasting which grew significantly under Whelan.

After Michael Mason left the ABC, Whelan was first appointed acting head of regional and local, before being appointed permanently. That role oversaw the eight ABC capital city flagship radio stations, 48 rural and regional bureaus plus regional and local TV content. The role also included sport across all platforms and live events like ABC’s highest-rating TV program, the New Year’s Eve celebrations and fireworks coverage.

See also: How ABC’s regional and local head Judith Whelan and the team cover Australia

Judith Whelan

ABC managing director David Anderson paid tribute to Whelan and confirmed her death on Wednesday.

He said she was “loved and respected across the ABC, especially by our radio and regional teams”.

“We have lost a great friend and journalism has lost a true fighter,” he said.

“Judith always had the instincts that made her such a formidable journalist. She carried with her a commitment to truth and accountability and instilled these values in those who worked with her.

“A valued mentor to younger journalists, Judith nurtured while leading by example. Judith was tough but caring and wanted those around her to succeed. Young reporters knew Judith would champion their work if the story needed to be told.”

See also: Media executive Judith Whelan remembered as ‘true fighter’ for journalism by ABC, Sydney Morning Herald colleagues

The death of Dr Michael Mosley shocked friends, colleagues and the millions of people he reached through his TV series and books.

The loss was felt deeply in Australia where Mosley had become a go-to creator of content for SBS. There seemed to be a few years where a week didn’t go by without one of his series, first run or a repeat, running in primetime.

The SBS On Demand service has curated a special collection of Dr Michael Mosley programming. On Wednesday 3 July at 7.35pm the primary channel will broadcast the BBC tribute program Michael Mosley: The Doctor Who Changed Britain. He had a big impact in this country too.

Producing his Australian programs commissioned by SBS was Perth-based indie production business Artemis Media.

Michael Mosley on location in My Isa for Artemis Media.
Top: Michael Mosley with Celia Tait.

Mediaweek this week spoke with founder Celia Tait about how the partnership started and what Mosley meant to the company.

“I first met Michael over 40 years ago when he was at medical school in London,” Tait told Mediaweek. “We both pursued careers in broadcasting – him at the BBC, and me initially in ITV, and later in Australia with my production company Artemis.”

It wasn’t until some time later they started to work together.

“In 2019 after Michael left the BBC we began to work together. The first series was Australia’s Health Revolution with Dr Michael Mosley which explored reversing type 2 diabetes through diet.

“The second series was Australia’s Sleep Revolution with Dr Michael Mosley. We partnered with the brilliant team at the Adelaide Institute for Sleep Health at Flinders University, instigating a ground-breaking sleep trial.”

The first of two series made by Artemis Media

Filming in Australia started during Covid

Tait explained that Mosley came to Australia to film with Artemis Media twice.

“The first time he and his wife Clare faced quarantine in a Perth hotel for two weeks due to the ongoing Covid pandemic. Western Australia was about the only place in the world with closed borders. Once out of quarantine Michael was astonished at the relative freedom we all had which allowed us to film the series with few restrictions.

“Michael joined the inspirational Ray Kelly to assist our cast to reverse their type 2 diabetes. He was particularly pleased to visit the Pilbara and to meet the traditional owners the Ngarluma people in Roeburne.

“Two years later Michael was back to film our second series on sleep, based at Flinders University in Adelaide. Alongside participants who were all living with chronic sleep issues, Michael took part in the study, receiving a dramatic diagnosis and undergoing a successful treatment program.

Michael Mosley was a ‘one-take wonder’

“Our shoot intersected with a national talk tour that Michael and wife Clare were doing. We juggled our shoots in and around that. Michael had an extraordinary ability to absorb the day’s focus for work at breakneck speed, and was a one-take wonder. His professionalism and understanding of the craft of creating documentary were a huge asset on a fast-paced shoot, helping us navigate the limited time we had with him. He always had time for our participants, connecting with them during a time of great vulnerability.”

Australia’s Sleep Revolution with Dr Michael Mosley. Pictured with Dr Sutapa Mukherjee, director Russel Vines and DOP Harvey Hogan

Cast and crew working with Michael Mosley in Australia

Health Revolution – Series Producer Nia Pericles and Series Director Russell Vines
Sleep Revolution  – Series Producer Katherine Barratt and Series Director Russell Vines
Katrina Tudor – Senior Researcher
Celia Tait – Executive Producer

Production highlights: Health Revolution

Tait explained Mosley was thrilled hearing about the first reversal of type 2 diabetes in participant Charlie.

She added he also enjoyed going bush with locals Lyn and Marian to Yindjibarndi country looking for bush tucker. “Michael had just finished two weeks of eating a typical Australian diet including hearty serves of junk food. He was on day one of starting a diet to restrict his eating to 800 calories. He was really wiped out that day. Lyn and Marian looked after him.”

Production highlights: Sleep revolution

Tait: “Michael travelled to Federal Parliament with Flinders University Sleep physicians Dr Sutapa Mukherjee and Professor Danny Eckert. He monitored the sleep and health markers of four MP’s including Barnaby Joyce and Jackie Lambie at the beginning and ending of a 10-day parliament sitting. The health results were striking and Michael used this to push the political agenda to get sleep recognised as a critical pillar of health.”

Australia’s Sleep Revolution helped politicians get better rest. Mosley with Barnaby Joyce (top) and Jacqui Lambie

‘We feel privileged to have worked with him’

In the days immediately following confirmation of the death of Dr Michael Mosley, Artemis Media released this statement:

We are so shocked and saddened by the tragic passing of Dr Michael Mosley. Michael Mosley had a rare talent. His energy, spirit, and intelligence touched millions of people around the globe, and he affected real change in their lives. We feel privileged to have worked with him over many years.

The two TV series that we made together helped to amplify the health messages he was so excited to share, and this, in turn, affected many changes in Australia. In Australia’s Health Revolution he demonstrated how to reverse type 2 diabetes, and alongside Ray Kelly Fitness, helped to get this broadly acknowledged. In Australia’s Sleep Revolution Michael took part in a ground-breaking sleep trial conducted at Flinders University, demonstrating that their new approach to diagnosis and treatment works.

We will miss him – his energy, wisdom, ‘can do’ attitude, big chuckle, and relatable addiction to chocolate. Our thoughts are with Dr Clare Bailey and the Mosley family. We hope that they can take some comfort in knowing just how much Michael inspired people. The recent outpouring of love, gratitude, and respect from around the globe is a testimony to Michael, and will ensure that his legacy lives on.

Monday: The lost Dr Michael Mosley interview tape. Recorded during a BBC Sydney promo visit in 2016. Only in Mediaweek.

See also:
Claire Forster on unravelling the mysteries of Artemis Media series Every Family Has a Secret

Compiled by Tess Connery

From Kenya to Canada: Marc Fennell on ‘bottling the sense of adventure’ for Stuff The British Stole

Museums and galleries are filled with artworks, jewels, and priceless relics that have been seized and taken halfway across the planet for display. Following the success of the show’s first season, Marc Fennell returns with a new season of Stuff The British Stole on ABC and iView.

Podcast Week’s Tess Connery caught up with Fennell to speak about the success of the Stuff The British Stole podcast.  

Can you tell me a bit about how the show and the podcast differ?

I view them all as part of the same universe of stories, I don’t think of one as higher or lower than the other. They’re connected, but there are some crucial differences.

With the television show, you have to be able to show people things, and the one piece of leverage that museums and galleries have is they can always say no, you can’t film the object and we won’t answer any questions. I suspect they think that will stop the stories from going ahead, and it doesn’t. 

With the television show, we have a whole budget just for replicates. Now, if we use a replica in the show we always tell you at some point, but we had a whole replica of a sphinx made for, we had to replicate a sixth-century mosaic, we borrowed the crown from one of the props companies that does the props for The Crown. We’re always trying to bring things to life. 

The podcast just hit 5 million downloads last month, which is huge – congratulations.

Thank you. The reason I’m surprised by it is because you have to consider the origin of this thing – it literally started with me and a microphone by myself with a couple of hours to spare in London. We’d had the idea and I’d pitched it around to British broadcasters at the time. This is 2019 and all these British broadcasters just looked at me blankly like, Did we really steal that much stuff, though? 

I just started recording it by myself with the microphone. From then the ABC and CBC got involved, and when the podcast launched it went to number one in a whole bunch of different online podcasts rankers. I was like, What? I thought I thought I was making this weird niche show about nicked artefacts, and actually, I think it tapped into something that I don’t think I could have predicted. 

[Read the full the interview with Marc Fennell here]

7News releases true crime podcast The Truth About Amy

The Seven Network has premiered a true crime podcast from the investigative team behind The Lady Vanishes and Shot in the Dark.

The Truth About Amy, produced by Seven journalists Alison Sandy and Liam Bartlett, reopens the case of the death of 24-year-old Amy Wensley in 2014.

It’s been 10 years since the body of the mother-of-two was found in her bedroom in Serpentine, Western Australia. She’d died from a gunshot wound to the head.

Outside in the driveway, Amy’s car engine was still running, and her two daughters were strapped into the back seat – with clothes, toys and other essentials, ready to leave. Amy had gone inside to get one last thing and never came out.

[Listen to The Truth About Amy here]

9News podcast Hannah’s Story honoured with third national award

The team behind 9News Queensland and 9Podcast’s podcast Hannah’s Story celebrated another significant achievement at the Walkley Foundation 2024 Mid-Year Celebration of Journalism.

They received the Our Watch Award for Excellence in Reporting on Violence Against Women. It adds to their other accolades for the production, which include the Kennedy Award for Outstanding Podcast, the Spotlight category at the Australian Podcast Awards, and the Best Narrative Documentary podcast at the New York Festival Radio Awards.

Hannah’s Story is presented by 9News Queensland presenter Melissa Downes, produced by 9News Queensland producer Jessica Lodge, and edited by Adam Buncher of 9Podcasts.

[Listen to Hannah’s Story here]

9Podcasts lifts in shows and sales representation ranking

Nine’s podcast network, 9Podcasts, has leapt up the Australian Podcast Ranker to take the No.5 spot for sales representation nationally, with 1,387,096 monthly listeners and 3,635,692 monthly downloads in May 2024.

The Ben Fordham Live catch up podcast was Nine’s highest ranking podcast at No.29 on the Australian Top Podcast Ranker (up 3 positions in May), attracting more than 194,000 listeners and 388,000 downloads.

Over on the Australian-made podcast ranker, Nine’s new investigative journalism podcast, The Missing Campers Trial debuted at No.53; ACRA winning series Stories of Origin made a return to the top All Australian Made ranker at No.142, and Footy Classified jumped the most positions in the ranker across Nine’s stable, up 14 places this month.

[Find May’s Podcast Ranker here]

New podcast Grand Gestures is the nonna bear hug we all need

Comedian Lizzy Hoo is the host of SBS’s new podcast Grand Gestures, an interview podcast with 10 notable Australians re-telling family stories and speaking about the special bonds they have with their grandparents.

Hear heart-warming and heart-breaking stories of grandparents who were second parents, confidants, heroes, and custodians of knowledge and traditions.

“Grand Gestures is like a warm hug from your grandparents – it’s full of warmth and stories that remind you of your own loved ones,” said Hoo.

“Especially as we get older, we start to realise our grandparents are the keepers of all the family stories and histories.”

[Listen to Grand Gestures here]

Nicholas Chin, national head of performance at OMD, told Mediaweek he was humbled that industry icons awarded him Media Agency – All Agencies at the Next of The Best Awards.

“It will definitely motivate me to keep pushing the boundaries,” he added.

Mediaweek caught up with Chin as he shared his thoughts on his achievements with the agency, the mantra that shaped his entire career and the importance of giving back to the industry.

The awards have been judged by an all-star line-up, what does it mean to you to be recognised by this group?

When I found out who had judged the awards, I was pretty shocked to have had my work reviewed and appreciated by such a high calibre of leaders. It is incredibly humbling that these industry icons saw merit in my work and really helps to validate the effort and dedication I’ve put in over the years. It will definitely motivate me to keep pushing the boundaries. So, thank you!

What’s been your proudest achievement as national head of performance at OMD?

This is easy, it is 100% the team and performance community we have developed at OMD. I’m extremely proud of what we have achieved as a group and I’m fortunate to work with the best and brightest in the industry every day. Setting up a playground for my team to deliver has been a big part of my role, but from there they do such a remarkable job of getting results for the brands we work with. They don’t see performance as just “hitting a CPA”. They’re our business super sleuths, uncovering the right clues, finding the best people to speak to and building a business strategy that drives a better result. I’m constantly amazed by the things they do and achieve.

In three words, how would you describe the OMD performance team?

Very clever cookies!

What is a piece of career advice that still resonates with you today?

“Ask questions and be a nuisance”! I was facetiously given this advice by a marketing director early in my career and has driven me to remain curious and not let anyone put a stop to my pursuits. That mantra has shaped my entire career.

Possibly to the annoyance of my colleagues, that curiosity means I’m always looking for a better or different way of doing something. It pushes me to think outside of the box in everything I do and make sure that I’m not perpetuating the same things that have been done in the past. In a tight-knit industry, it means we can sometimes repeat the same thinking over and over. I believe we can do better so I’m always pushing for that.

Being Next of The Best – what can the industry expect next from you?

I’m very focused on giving back to the industry that has supported me for many years and I think there are a couple of areas that we, as an industry, could come together and think about differently. Across every business, our younger generation of marketers are still delivering manual tasks while brands are expecting better decisions at a faster pace. In 2024, let’s collectively solve for this with automation, analytics and AI. The opportunity is so great for marketing that we should be combining our efforts to create this change as an industry.

On the OMD front, I’m lucky enough to work with some of the greatest brands and media partners on the planet, so there’s a lot to do! I hold the philosophy that “performance is both direct response and brand” and we should be driving outcomes across all our work – whether that is sport, content or search. So, you can expect to hear more from me about full-funnel, omni-channel measurement this year!

–

Top image: Nicholas Chin

Southern Cross Media Group (SCA) has advised the ASX that it has “decided not to pursue” acquiring Australian Community Media’s (ACM) key print and digital news publications and its agriculture division.

ACM’s portfolio includes 14 daily print and digital news publications and its agriculture division, which was previously an attractive asset for Southern Cross.

However, in the announcement to ASX, Southern Cross has since noted its “audio-focused strategy and would not create value for SCA shareholders.”

“The SCA Board, therefore, considers it would not be in the best interests of SCA shareholders to pursue ACM’s proposal,” according to the ASX announcement.”

Southern Cross noted that the guidance provided in May for the full financial year to 30 June 2024 remains unchanged.

Last month, Southern Cross advised the ASX that it had been approached by Australian Community Media (ACM) with a proposal for SCA to acquire assets from ACM.

The proposal was described as “materially different” to ACM’s previous proposal, which Southern Cross rejected in November 2023.

At the time ACM approached SCA with the offer, its board said it had decided to investigate ACM’s revised proposal to “determine whether it would align with SCA’s strategy and have the potential to create value for and be in the best interests of SCA shareholders, particularly in relation to prospective value in ACM’s digital capabilities and content, regional focus, and other potential synergies.”

All discussions between the two companies are currently in their early stages, and Southern Cross was keen to clarify that “there is no certainty that a transaction will eventuate”. 

That followed the withdrawal of Anchorage Capital Partners (ACP) from the proposed $250 million deal that would have seen ARN and Anchorage acquire Southern Cross, an Alternative Indicative Proposal was put forward by ARN.

See also: SCA approached by Australian Community Media in new acquisition proposal

Independent youth publisher Junkee Media has announced the relaunch of its pop culture title Junkee with a new website and brand identity.

Junkee has been a staple in the Australian media landscape for nearly a decade. The relaunch marks the final phase of the publisher’s brand evolution, driven by editor-in-chief Alice Griffin, who took up the mantle in November 2022, moving from her post as editor of MTV Australia.

Griffin was tasked with taking the youth brand into its next phase, supporting the publisher’s evolving mission, voice, and strategy across all platforms, and engaging a new generation of young people. These efforts resulted in what the publisher has dubbed ‘Junkee 2.0,’ defined by a social-first approach, a strategy to cover topics other youth publishers may miss, and a vision of “reporting that adds to the conversation, not the noise.”

Alice Griffin

“You can expect us to continue giving young writers a platform to say their piece. We’ll delve into the most curious corners of pop culture, sit across from politicians we don’t agree with and say things with our full chest,” said Griffin.

“We’ll always honour the foundation built by the people before us, and Junkee 2.0 promises to be bolder, brattier, and braver than we’ve ever been.”

Supporting Griffin on the Junkee editorial team is managing editor Nick Bhasin, head of video and social media, Lauren Jones, brand partnerships lead, Jannah Anderson, creative producer Talecia Vescio, multimedia reporter, Ky Stewart, culture writer and producer, Lia Kim, and ideographer and editor, Abbey Sheather. Katie Stow serves as the editor of ‘cheeky younger sister’ brand, Punkee.

From left, Jannah Anderson, Katie Stow, Ky Stewart, Nick Bhasin, Alice Griffin, Talecia Vescio, Lia Kim, Abbey Sheather & Lauren Jones

The new era of Junkee also sees a greater focus on its key verticals: social justice, music, and culture. These areas will be explored by the team along with key contributors, and supported across Junkee’s social platforms – TikTok, Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube – as well as the new Junkee website. 

In March, Junkee and Pinterest Australia partnered for a content series that aimed to empower and inspire Gen Z LGBTQIA+ Australians to celebrate Pride in the ways that are most authentic to them.

The series explores the theme of “Quiet Pride” and delvesd into LGBTQIA+ trends and topics over 230 pins on Junkee and Punkee’s Pinterest accounts.

See also: Junkee Media and Pinterest empower Gen Z Australians with ‘Quiet Pride’ content series

Entries for the Promax ANZ Awards are now open, marking the 25th year of recognising the creative efforts of marketers and content creators in broadcast media and streaming.

Free TV has called for a comprehensive four-step plan to place regional television broadcasting on a sustainable long-term footing.

The industry body says regional Australians are starting to lose access to television services, and that the ongoing availability of local trusted news, local advertising opportunities, and Australian content in regional areas is at stake.

Free TV CEO, Bridget Fair said: “The Regional Broadcasting Continuity Bill introduced today contains two short-term legislative tweaks in response to the imminent closure of Midura Digital Television (MDT) on 30 June, but long-term structural measures are now urgently needed to ensure the future viability of regional commercial television services in Australia.

“From 1 July almost 70,000 people in Mildura will no longer be able to access broadcasts from Mildura Digital Television, which delivers Network 10 programming to the region. That means no broadcast access to the Matildas or Socceroos or shows like MasterChef, Australian Survivor or 10 News.

“This legislation merely allows Mildura viewers the option of installing a satellite dish at their own expense to receive the remote area VAST service to replace their Network 10 services.

“While this gives Mildura residents an option to replace their lost services, it is not a fair or reasonable solution, new satellite installation can cost upwards of $800. In a cost-of-living crisis this is simply not realistic for many Australians just to access the television services that are available for free to everyone else.

“Without urgent substantive action by Government, more licence areas are likely to follow. The solutions to keeping the lights on for regional TV are squarely in the hands and control of the Albanese Government.”

Free TV is calling on the government to amend the Prominence and Anti-Siphoning Bill to ensure that all Australians can watch live and free sport no matter how they get their free TV, and can find their local TV services on their current TV sets without needing to buy a new one.

See also: Free TV: Millions will miss out on free sport unless laws are updated

The Hit Network head of Hit Metro content and Fox content director, Amanda Lee, has made three new appointments to The Fox.

Brad Wood is joining The Fox as afternoon announcer and operations manager.

For the past seven years, Wood has worked with the Hit Network’s B105 Brisbane as the Workday announcer, accomplishing several no.1 ratings results in the role as well as contributing to the station’s strategy and programming.

Gemma Prendergast joins The Fox as new senior producer for the Breakfast show Fifi, Fev & Nick.

Gemma Prendergast

She joins The Fox from Nova 100, where she worked as senior producer on the Drive show for the past six years and prior to that was assistant producer and digital content producer for various Nova networked shows.

The new content assistant for The Fox will be Emily Allen, who will also work across the Hit and Triple M networks. She was previously with ARN working as a promotion & event specialist at Chilli FM and LAFM.

Lee said: “I am thrilled to announce some new faces to the Fox team who will continue to contribute to the success of the station and our shows. The Fox has incredible momentum in Melbourne and I’m sure that Brad, Gemma and Emily will be valuable additions to the team.”

Emily Allen

Wood said of his appointment: “I feel incredibly excited and grateful to come home to Melbourne and become the newest member of the Fox family! From listening in my bedroom, hassling Tracy & Matt and Barry Bissell for requests, to community radio in Melton where I tried to emulate that famous Fox magic, my lifelong dream has just come true. In my role I look forward to joining our team and building on our unmatched dedication to our city, Melbourne – the greatest city in the world!”
 
Prendergast added: “I’m truly beyond thrilled to be joining Melbourne’s very-own Fox FM and the Fifi, Fev & Nick team. The show is world-class and I’m beyond excited to work with the team to continue building on the incredible radio they produce on a daily basis. I’m chomping at the bit to get stuck into it and officially become a member of the iconic Fox family.”
 
Allen said: “I’m super keen to be starting in this exciting role and I can’t wait to meet everyone once I’ve made the leap across the Bass Strait!”
 
All appointments are effective immediately.
 
–
 
Top image: Brad Wood

Pinterest has launched board sharing, a dynamic feature that enables users to share videos of their favourite Pinterest boards across various social platforms, including Instagram and TikTok.

The tool allows users to share what they are saving and curating, with the option to add a link back to their boards and invite others to explore and engage with the curated content in-depth.

The platform also noted that Gen Z has been leading the growth in the number of boards created since last year, and board sharing will allow users to share their unique style and vision with the world and inspire others to do the same.

Melinda Petrunoff, managing director of Pinterest ANZ, said in a LinkedIn post: “Today we’re announcing an exciting new feature, board sharing. Over 10 billion boards are curated globally by our half a billion monthly users, and now they can share dynamic videos of their favourite boards and top pins.

“Whether it’s home renovation, tablescapes, winter fashion outfits or travel destination boards, what inspires you on Pinterest can be easily shared to other social platforms,” she added.

The launch of this new tool comes after Pinterest launched an integrated experience in partnership with The Seven Network for the home renovation series, Dream Home.

The partnership will capitalise on the room reveals in the new show and will allow viewers and Pinterest users to explore the room reveals, curate their own “dream homes” online and buy products from key program sponsors.

After each episode, the room reveals will be dropped onto boards on Pinterest, with viewers able to look through and save inspiration for their own home renovation.

Pinterest is running a competition to support the launch, called Pinterest’s Dream Home Curation Challenge, where viewers can mix and match their favourite designs and products from the show on the platform.

Each board based on the show on Pinterest will be judged and the winners will receive a prize including a lifetime of savings from Three Birds Renovations.

Petrunoff said that the time that the team are “thrilled to be partnering with Seven in a way that Pinterest has never done before.”

“Aussies love searching for and pinning their favourite ideas for home renovations and now Dream Home viewers will have the opportunity to engage with the show in a way that naturally complements their viewing experience.

“Not only can they explore the dream homes on Pinterest, but they can also take action and purchase items they love for their own home.”

See also: Seven and Pinterest come together to help viewers curate their own Dream Home

Foxtel has revealed that it’s NRL Las Vegas opening matches produced the two largest NRL audiences of all-time across the Foxtel Group.

NRL’s 2024 Magic Round also recorded the highest audience ever for a regular season round across the Foxtel Group.

Foxtel reports that just over midway through their respective seasons, the Australian Football League (AFL), National Rugby League (NRL), Super Netball and Formula 1 are all achieving record season audiences across its platforms – Foxtel, Foxtel Now, Foxtel Go, and Kayo Sports.

With streaming audiences representing more than half of total audiences, all codes are also on track to record their highest streamed seasons of all time.

Collectively, they have delivered 8.7 billion minutes viewed across their respective 2024 seasons on Foxtel Group streaming platforms.

The highest streamed sporting weekend of the year was the third weekend of May which recorded the most viewing sessions (25 million) and minutes viewed (961 million). This was driven by NRL’s Magic Round, AFL Round 10, Supercars Perth Race, F1 Emilia Romagna and Super Netball Round 6.

2024 has also seen the AFL achieve the five largest regular season round audiences of all-time across the Foxtel Group, while Super Netball’s opening round achieved the highest opening round of all time.

Super Netball achieved its biggest audience ever for a game during the Vixens v Fever game in round 7.

Fox Sports Australia managing director Steve Crawley said: “These achievements are evidence of the strong growth of Kayo Sports since March this year and a testament to the Fox Sports team who give audiences access to world-class sport content that entertains fans and drives conversations.”

Foxtel Group executive director – commercial, sport Rebecca McCloy said: “We’re thrilled to support our sporting partners to reach and engage new audiences, and this is powered by the continued growth of Kayo Sports. We remain committed to broadcasting exciting sport content that resonates strongly with audiences and, in turn, grows sporting code and live viewers.”

See also: Foxtel reveals line-up of new and refreshed linear channels

Coles has launched a new sub-brand, Coles Simply, in collaboration with Melbourne independent the thrills, geared towards budget-savvy consumers.

In response to Coles’ brief, the thrills team developed a brand strategy and design system for over 90 SKUs across the supermarket retailer.

“The innovative thinking and creative strategy led to the distinct and visually approachable identity of this store-wide range, which was key to making it a success,” said Charlotte Rhodes, Coles Group general manager – own brand, quality and sustainable sourcing.

“Our long-term partnership with the agency has proven instrumental in the successful delivery  of projects of this calibre.” 

Managing partner of the thrills, Kate Richardson, described how in-store research led the team to conclude a “personality-forward” entry would resonate with consumers.  

“The cost-of-living crisis has impacted households across Australia, so we wanted to bring some positivity back to the weekly grocery shopping experience. To capture the feel-good factor and dial up trust, we chose a wonderfully warm yellow,” she said.  

“Colour acts as a simple yet effective tool for brands to create instant recognition and visual consistency. Not only are the products easy to identify, but it’s an uplifting range that consumers will be proud to put in their basket.

“Together, the design elements build a sub brand that defies bland and basic entry-level trends.” 

On the opposite end, earlier this year, Coles engaged branding and design independent Hulsbosch to lead a rebranding project of its premium private label, Coles Finest.

The Coles Finest brand has grown rapidly since its inception just over 10 years ago, becoming a verifiable treat option for customers, particularly as the cost of living crisis drives up the costs of a weekly shop. In response, Coles has also invested significantly in its premium private label.

The rebrand saw results that “exceed[ed] expectations,” as Rhodes previously told Mediaweek.

The Coles Simply project follows the May announcement that Melbourne Royal had appointed the thrills as its creative agency of record for a multi-year partnership across their annual event, The Melbourne Royal Show, following a four-way competitive pitch.

See also:
Coles Finest rebrand aims to earn brand loyalty amidst cost of living crisis
Melbourne Royal hands multi-year creative account to the thrills

Tuesday 25 June 2024: VOZ Total TV Ratings Overnight Top 30 – Programs ranked on reach

Total People TV Ratings

Nine’s Paramedics recorded a total TV national reach of 1,382,000, a total TV national audience of 567,000, and a BVOD audience of 43,000.

Nine’s A Current Affair recorded a total TV national reach of 1,584,000, a total TV national audience of 1,093,000, and a BVOD audience of 74,000.

Seven’s Dream Home recorded a total TV national reach of 1,419,000, a total TV national audience of 644,000, and a BVOD audience of 51,000.

Also on Seven, Home & Away recorded a total TV national reach of 1,400,000, a total TV national audience of 859,000, and a BVOD audience of 105,000.

10’s airing of MasterChef Australia recorded a total TV national reach of 1,236,000, a total TV national audience of 658,000, and a BVOD audience of 60,000.

10’s airing of The Cheap Seats recorded a total TV national reach of 1,203,000, a total TV national audience of 531,000, and a BVOD audience of 21,000.

See also: TV Report 25 June 2024: Tensions lead to Dream Home showdown

People 25-54

Nine’s Paramedics:
• Total TV nation reach: 406,000
• National Audience: 181,000
• BVOD Audience: 24,000

Nine’s A Current Affair:
• Total TV nation reach: 421,000
• National Audience: 275,000
• BVOD Audience: 39,000

10’s MasterChef:
• Total TV nation reach: 486,000
• National Audience: 251,000 
• BVOD Audience: 33,000

Seven’s Dream Home:
• Total TV nation reach: 455,000
• National Audience: 228,000
• BVOD Audience: 29,000

Seven’s Home & Away:
• Total TV nation reach: 435,000
• National Audience: 293,000
• BVOD Audience: 59,000

10’s The Cheap Seats:
• Total TV nation reach: 474,000
• National Audience: 242,000 
• BVOD Audience: 13,000

People 16-39

Nine’s Paramedics:
• Total TV nation reach: 161,000
• National Audience: 77,000
• BVOD Audience: 12,000

Nine’s A Current Affair:
• Total TV nation reach: 186,000
• National Audience: 126,000
• BVOD Audience: 20,000

10’s MasterChef:
• Total TV nation reach: 195,000
• National Audience: 93,000 
• BVOD Audience: 18,000

Seven’s Dream Home:
• Total TV nation reach: 175,000
• National Audience: 86,000
• BVOD Audience: 15,000

Seven’s Home & Away:
• Total TV nation reach: 170,000
• National Audience: 125,000
• BVOD Audience: 36,000

10’s The Cheap Seats:
• Total TV nation reach: 185,000
• National Audience: 89,000 
• BVOD Audience: 6,000

Grocery Shoppers 18+ TV Ratings

Nine’s Paramedics:
• Total TV nation reach: 1,065,000
• National Audience: 439,000
• BVOD Audience: 34,000

Nine’s A Current Affair:
• Total TV nation reach: 1,218,000
• National Audience: 846,000
• BVOD Audience: 59,000

10’s MasterChef:
• Total TV nation reach: 971,000
• National Audience: 523,000 
• BVOD Audience: 49,000

Seven’s Dream Home:
• Total TV nation reach: 1,112,000
• National Audience: 511,000
• BVOD Audience: 41,000

Seven’s Home & Away:
• Total TV nation reach: 1,102,000
• National Audience: 683,000
• BVOD Audience: 84,000

10’s The Cheap Seats:
• Total TV nation reach: 936,000
• National Audience: 421,000 
• BVOD Audience: 17,000

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.

TV Report 26 June 2024:

Nine TV Report

State of Origin – Game II

Nine aired State of Origin – Game II which saw the Blues dominate and beat the Maroons 38-18 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Mitchell Moses won Man of the Match while just after halftime, two fights broke out as Liam Martin and Patrick Carrigan were sent to the sin bin for their involvement. Game III will be played on 17 July at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane.

Seven TV Report

The Front Bar

The Front Bar welcomed Brad Johnson as they shared a laugh about the world of AFL and caught up with stars of yesteryear and today, ahead of the fifteenth round of the AFL 2024 season.

Home & Away

Earlier in the night was Home & Away as Harper battled her feelings for Tane, Rose wanted answers and Cash made a big career decision. 

10 TV Report

The Project

The Project on 10 reported on Julian Assange returning home to Australia, spoke to the Aussie baseballer set to be picked first in the MLB draft and also spoke to MrBeast who was at the Sydney Opera House giving away cars. 

MasterChef Australia

On 10’s MasterChef Australia, it was time for the Hong Kong Immunity Challenge. A Lucky Dip proved fortunate for some, but challenging for others. With two randomly picked ingredients, each contestant had to perfectly pair them to create a dish.

ABC

7:30

On 7:30, Sarah Ferguson interviewed US Republican Congresswoman Majorie Taylor Greene and also reported on legislation to reform the NDIS being stalled in the Senate.

Gruen

Gruen returned last night to discuss Mitsubishi, Subway and Bottled Air. Wil Anderson was joined by Russel Howcroft, Todd Sampson, Camey O’Keefe and Kiranpreet Kaur Dhillon.

SBS

Concorde: The Race for Supersonic

In the race for the world’s first successful supersonic airliner, Concorde goes nose to nose with its Russian competitor, but shocking archives reveals how it ends in tragedy and death.