James Valentine leaving as toughest timeslot in radio under big pressure

February 5, 2026 9:23

James Valentine in the 1990s, before he began work at ABC Sydney

James Valentine, who announced his retirement this week from ABC Sydney, is hosting his final afternoon show on Friday.

He will present from 12.30pm for one more time, with highlights from his 25 years in the daypart, working with his longtime producer Jen Flemming.

The afternoon slot is truly the toughest in radio.

Radio industry audiences, revenue and salaries peak in breakfast radio where the foundations of a station are built for both listeners and advertisers.

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James Manning

James Manning is the former Mediaweek editor and publisher and "perhaps the best known journalist inside the media industry."

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James Manning James Valentine

1 COMMENTS

PatrickFrank 5 Feb 26

Thanks to James Valentine for being a passionate radio host and communicator for so many years.

Really look forward to him returning one day.

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James Valentine leaving as toughest timeslot in radio under big pressure

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