After weeks of speculation and strong audience reaction, the Australian Radio Network (ARN) has confirmed Robin, Kip & Corey will return to KIIS 97.3’s Brisbane breakfast show in 2026, marking a rare on-air reversal driven squarely by listener feedback.
The trio will be back behind the mic from January 19, 2026, with ARN pointing to audience engagement and recent survey results as decisive factors in the decision.
For Brisbane radio, it is an unusual public example of people’s power influencing programming strategy.
Listener feedback forces a rethink
ARN said the move reflects its priority to deliver shows that audiences genuinely connect with, particularly in a market as competitive and personality-led as Brisbane breakfast.
Robin Bailey did not downplay the significance of the reversal.
“Brissy, you did it! Thank you so much. We are coming back because of you, and I can’t tell you how grateful I am to be back behind the mic with Kip and Corey again on KIIS 973. A reversal like this is a first, and I’m beyond excited for what it means for The Robin, Kip & Corey Show in 2026.”
Kip Wightman leaned into the moment with typical humour, crediting the city’s loyalty.
“How good is people power?! No one gets behind a team like Brisbane! Can’t wait to kick off 2026 back in the studio. I guess I’ll need to return all the office equipment I stole on the last day!”
Corey Oates said the connection with listeners had always been the foundation of the show.
“We love starting the day with you, Brisbane. Thanks for sticking with us. We’re grateful to be part of your mornings. We’ve got exciting plans for 2026 and can’t wait to be back with you from January 19.”
Craig ‘Lowie’ Low
A familiar breakfast, with more to come
ARN said the show’s return will not be a carbon copy of the past, with new segments, guests and interactive elements planned to keep the format fresh in 2026.
The network highlighted the trio’s long-standing ties to the local community as a key strength, alongside their on-air chemistry and relatable humour.
Derek “DB” Bargwanna, Head of KIIS Network, said the decision came down to listening closely to the market.
“Brisbane listeners were clear about what they wanted, and we listened. Robin, Kip & Corey have a strong connection with this city, and the way things wrapped up meant the door was always open for us to reunite. We’re thrilled to welcome them back to breakfast in 2026.”
Lowie moves into a national nights role
As part of the refreshed 2026 lineup, Craig ‘Lowie’ Low will step into a new national role, hosting Lowie Live, airing from 9pm to midnight across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth.
ARN said the move supports KIIS’ evolution into a true five-city entertainment network, with nights becoming a shared national destination across markets.
Lowie will also feature across KIIS content platforms as part of a broader push to blend radio, video and digital reach.
“I’m stoked that Brissy gets its favourite breakfast show back – and I can’t wait to create and connect with listeners nationwide across nights on the KIIS Network,” Lowie said.
Both Robin, Kip & Corey and Lowie Live will launch on January 19, 2026, available live on KIIS stations and via the iHeart app.