‘This came as a shock’: Another presenter dumped by ABC
ABC Radio Sydney weekend host Simon Marnie is the latest presenter to be dropped by the national broadcaster, following the shock axing of Sarah Macdonald.
“After a week or so of speculation I can confirm that the ABC has looked at its Weekend Structure in 2025 and informed me they do not have a role for me in that structure. This came as a shock and I am still processing what it means for me,” Marnie wrote on Instagram on Thursday.
It comes after ABC’s director of audio Ben Latimer defended the changes to its broadcasting lineup, writing in an all-staff email this week that “the roster of presenters across our networks have been carefully thought through and discussed with relevant managers”.
“It’s clear that we are navigating a period of significant transition, driven by rapidly evolving audience expectations. Every radio market, both here and globally, operates in a hyper-competitive environment, and we have a responsibility to adapt – embracing creative renewal to ensure our programming remains relevant and resonant,” the note read.
“Our decisions reflect the need to revitalise our programming and bring a renewed mix of voices and perspectives. By striking a thoughtful balance between well-known and refreshed talent, we aim to build deeper connections with our loyal listeners while extending our reach to engage new audiences.
“I would urge you not to focus on individual changes in programming and look instead to the broader plan to grow audiences and the contribution you will make as talented and respected broadcast professionals.”
ABC chair, Kim Williams, faced questions about Macdonald’s sacking at the National Press Club during the week, saying “changes in media are part of life”.
“They are part of the programming fabric of all organisations,” Williams said.
“Management has determined that it wishes to take that service in a different direction. That decision is a management decision, and I fully support our management in making relevant decisions as to the direction and content of the services that the ABC provides. So, yes, I do support that decision.
“Much of the public reaction would actually say that you can never change anything, ever, unless the person impacted by the change is entirely in agreement with that change. And I think that in a media working environment, that’s a very impractical view of the world.”
Marnie will broadcast his final shows this weekend.
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Nathan Jolly is the Features Editor at Mumbrella. He joined the team in July, 2023.
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Clearly the furore over Sarah’s getting canned has led to this sudden guilotining with barely a day’s notice. Puts Richard Glover’s decision to retire in a new light too: is the huge victory lap he’s been granted a reward for going quietly before he had to be pushed?
Latimer has just taken away the one thing that made it worthwhile listening to ABC Sydney on the weekends. I’m a digital listener and already turn off at noon to avoid the stupid sports stuff that the digital channel shouldn’t be forced to carry given that ABC Sports exists (especially the abysmal Bludging on the Blind Side). That’s hours of programming space right there to develop new talent in or relocate older presenters to that have been deemed surplus to requirements.
I’m now going to be turning off altogether.
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I can’t believe that Simon Marnie has been deemed superfluous to the ABC’s 2015 programming.
What a disgraceful and shameful decision by those purporting to reflect loyal and tax paying audiences’ expectations.
The very real danger is that in a ham fisted attempt to garner and grow new listeners, the ABC will shed the very much needed though disrespected audiences they already have.
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I love Simon’s programmes. You have definitely dropped the ball now ABC. I turn off at midday when stupid sport is all you offer, now I will be looking elsewhere all weekend without a second thought for ABC.Why not get rid of Sally Bryant she’s brilliant as well. You’re looking for new audiences… bollocks! Cater for your loyal audience.
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Oh what a huge mistake abc. Every Sunday I waited for the 10 o’clock news to turn my radio on. To listen with great joy to Simon Marnie. Not only listen but giggling loudly at some of his stories and now what. No more listening to abc Sunday. Big mistake. Just bring him back. Asap.
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I stand with all who have voiced their disappointment after recent ABC announcements about Sarah MacDonald & Simon Mahoney ! I also agree with previous comment about Macca, his ramblings have become inane rants , hardly reflective of broader unbiased and accurate community values. I value listening to polite informed discourse that has been a respected ABC quality. You will be losing a great number of ABC admirers . If it is solely about the numbers, not broader social values, good luck.
May you live in interesting times. Psychojames.
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Talents like Simon Marnie and Sarah MacDonald are quite unique, with that capability to remain unflappable, engaging and professional in any situation. Intelligent presenters, who understand their audience, are something of a rarity. Please reconsider their dismissal before this becomes another ABC blunder!
PS. Surely Ian MacNamara has long passed his use-by date; country people deserve better than his Sunday morning ditherings!
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I cannot fathom that these two fantastic talents are being thrown away like garbage,who the hell is this out of touch blow in making these,to us loyal listens,devastating decisions.
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I am very disappointed to learn that Sarah and Simon are not continuing next year. I especially love the timbre of Simon’s voice.
I have been enjoying listening to Tim Webster this week but understand he’s just filling in. What a shame.
As a loyal 2BL/702 radio listener I really enjoy listening to intelligent radio presenters. I’m not into sports.
In an era of growing ‘grey power’ why are decisions (not just the ABC) frequently made to ‘kow tow’ to the younger population?
What radio station shall I listen to now?
Would really appreciate your reinstating Sarah and Simon. Can I hear more of Tim Webster?
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What was Albo thinking when he recommended Williams be appointed as chairman of the ABC?
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What was Albo thinking when he recommended Williams to the chairman of the ABC?
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My world is crumbling. ABC has been a huge part of my daily life since I was a child. Don’t dumb down. Keep the standards high and younger listeners will develop. The statement from management is full of corporate speak – we are feeling brushed off.
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I too will no longer listen. Simon’s programs have been phenomenal. He really is iconic on weekends. I will change stations. He will be missed, he had such a variety in his shows. First thing I did, every Saturday was turn on Simon Marnie. I’m so disappointed. He was a breath of fresh air after the heavy news during the week. Always such a positive experience. Also sad for Suzanne, she had really settled into her role and it worked. ABC ratings have been dropping, now watch them plummet. You’ve lost me too.
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It’s time to get rid of Macca too. Weekends have been like Groundhog Day for too long…this renewal is much needed….
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The most incredible decision to remove Sarah Macdonald and Simon Marnie from their roles at the ABC! .. Saturday and Sunday mornings have been a joy listening to Simon, his love and knowledge of music and food, his wit, warmth and interest in people and of what is happening in their lives, in every way have been a part of my weekends for as long as I can remember.. the reason I would have the ABC as part of my mornings each Saturday and Sunday.
And Sarah.. I originally heard her on Evenings and have followed her since. Again her warmth, her sense of fun, her empathy when interviewing in circumstances requiring words of understanding and support in contrast to a few of ABC Management’s obvious continued choices in other timeslots (which is extraordinary to say the least) has been wonderful. Thank you to both of you.
And ABC Management… reconsider your pursuit of what at this point seems the impossible. You are losing us. It’s as simple as that. Jo D.
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Not impressed.. 2 major assets to the ABC being let go.. Really!!!
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Kim Williams, by your own logic, you would have to sack Macca on Sunday morning. His monotone, mumbling and self-indulgent presentation has not changed in decades. The Summer all Over show demonstrates that the listeners carry the show, regardless of the presenter. I understand Macca’s salary if $400K+ and you’re crying about a poor budget! Time for a change.
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I’ll be off listening to other content. So angry, so disappointed. Absolutely no logical reasoning behind these decisions. I’m obviously not the audience you want! “Not Happy Jann”
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I too am distressed at the unexpected changes to Saturday and Sunday (after 10am) morning broadcasting.
The layout for both is relevant interactive, informative for a morning presentation. The list of venues the presenter attends around the state gives the boarder sense of what is happening in other towns across the state. To loose this presentation diminishes our connectedness across NSW
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Ditto ditto ditto ditto etc etc
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Shame on you Williams, it’s Our ABC not Yours
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I am so disappointed, what the previous person said about Macca is true, he is dead boring.
Simon and Sarah are rays of sunshine in a dark world.
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I cannot believe the ABC is getting rid of Simon and Sarah both I love listening to I shall no longer be an
ABC listener. You cannot replace the best and expect us to listen. We will miss him greatly.
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And Macca stays REALLY 😮
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What is going on with the ABC? So many great staff and presenters forced to leave. You are not improving the ABC you are diminishing Aunty.
You are sacking the the best presenters and replacing them with those of less skills and far less polish. Standards in the ABC have fallen to its lowest point.
Very disappointed. Who ever is making These decisions should be sacked.
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The sacking of both Sarah and Simon is ridiculous. They obviously had no idea that they didn’t “fit in” to the new ABC, I don’t know whether I fit in either!
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Madness to let him go ☹️
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I would like to join all those negative reactions to what is happening with ABC radio. The station will not be the same without these people And I am thinking, probably it will not be worthwhile listening to the ABC. Obviously, there is no thought as to what people want.
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People like Tony Delroy can’t be replaced. I never went back to Night Life. I think Simon reflected the weekend vibe. If HG and Roy go as well, then I’ll be devastated.
It’s just not cricket gave listener’s choice. But choice no longer.
I think the new Gung Ho changemakers are taking huge risks.
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I didn’t get over Tony Delroy’s retirement and rarely tune in to Night Life. I don’t know whether I’ll get over Richard’s retirement and loss of Simon’s Weekends. I notice “It’s just not cricket” was axed too. I only listen to Sport when HG and Roy “Bludging on the Blindside” is on. I think all this change could go very badly for the change agents.
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I am so so disappointed , I have always enjoyed listening to Simon Marnie. If they are trying to engage the younger audience , good luck
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Good bye Sarah, Good bye Richard, Good bye Simon. Good bye ABC. I want my tax contribution refunded.
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NOT HAPPY, JAN! Don’t sack Simon Marnie and Sarah McDonald. Explanations from Kim Williams and other ABC big wigs are goobeldegook. Sack them instead. These presenters are vital to my sense of belonging and mental health; they are like family. Don’t dare tinker with “Evenings” with Renee Croch – that will be the last straw, the end of me.
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The ABC belongs to the people. Paid for by the people. Simon Marnie is a very important part of people’s lives. He helps assists in times of severe floods and fires. What ridiculous overpaid desk management person made this decision. To treat the listeners with such contempt proves where the ABC IS heading. It will be the last time I will ever switch it on. What a disgrace you are ABC supposed Management.
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So unbelievably shocking that wonderful Sarah MacDonald will not be presenting Mornings in 2025.
She is a major talent … interesting .. totally knowledgeable.. interactive & personable & truly loved by her listeners.
Please reverse this ridiculous decision.
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Do we need article after article every time a radio host is moved on? It’s absurd. The ABC needs a reset (a line the media love), yet they pile on outrage when contracts aren’t renewed. This isn’t news—it’s Sydney-centric fluff.
Yes, fans are upset—fine. But their ratings reflected a dwindling audience share. The ABC is taxpayer-funded and should aim for broader appeal, not cling to past glory.
You know who we’re not hearing from? The people who aren’t tuning in now but might after the refresh. Thank god it’s not these hosts or their rusted-on fans making the tough calls. Let leadership do their job.
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Trying to interest young people in the ABC is pointless. I didn’t start following until I was in my forties. And these days they have so many more ways to be entertained. Why is it so unacceptable to cater for older, dare I say, more intelligent listeners.
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So my weekend mornings radio listening is to be changed! I have listened to Sydney Radio 702 weekend mornings with Simon Marnie for many years and to learn that ‘just like that’ a loyal broadcaster can learn on a Thursday that the coming Saturday and Sunday are their last broadcasting days. Well this long time ABC 702 morning radio listener will by midday Sunday be an ex listener! I read that Mr Latimer wants to increase 702’s listenership – it would have been a good idea to first find out what your listeners wanted – interesting, intelligent, wide-ranging diverse discussions, varied developing topic discussions all conducted by an educated well rounded broadcaster – before pushing the broom through your business. You now need yet another listener to take my place. Shame on the ABC’s current management’s obvious lack of skill and workplace integrity.
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Trying to encourage “New audiences”, huh? You mean young people? Under 28s DO NOT AND WILL NOT LISTEN TO LIVE RADIO so good luck with that one!! 🤪
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Please ABC don’t replace these beautiful informative people with silly, giggling fast talking youngsters with NO life experiences. In our house we are tuning out more and more.
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Loved Simon Marnie & it was our Saturday tradition to listen. Gee we’ll miss that familiar voice & style. Left a lasting legacy & memory. Thanks Simon.
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Incompetent management!!
” IF IT’S NOT BROKEN DON’T
FIX IT”
I find your actions an abomination. You have taken my enjoyment on a daily basis.
Sarah, Richard and Simon deserve better for all the joy they have given to so many. You will all be missed.
I will not be listening to ABC Radio Australia.
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Big mistake. Big. Huge! #ihatecricket
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Somehow ABC standards have fallen since Andrew Ollie … Richard Glover ‘ dumbed down ‘ the Drive Show … and managed to survive … In an effort to get’ bums on seats’ without any knowledge, of what new listeners want a brave attempt is to ‘ sail in the dark ‘ … Why not keep ABC as a reputable standard bearer … and disregard audience share … I would get rid of some other presenters who have been there past their ‘use by date’ …
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Ridiculous decisions. I look forward to Simon every weekend and Sarah is a perfect fit for the weekday mornings.
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I can’t believe the stupidity of getting rid of Simon’s wonderful weekend program. It’s bad enough that cricket rules all the platforms and now this! What is going on at the ABC?? What kind of new audience are you looking for?
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Folk in the media seem to reach a point where they think the job is somehow owed to them and theirs for life even though, if they paid attention over their time working in it, the media is one of the most ‘here today, gone tomorrow’ professions going around. Marnie’s had a good run, but surely he didn’t expect it to last forever? Let’s see who the ABC rolls on next before we decide this is the worst thing to happen, this side of WW2.
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Like so many, I am so very disappointed with the ABC management’s decisions re Simon Marnie and Sarah McDonald. Both these presenters are so talented, likable, and trusted. The formats of their shows are what so many of us enjoy and trust.
With so much uncertainty in the world these days the ABC has been one of the anchors that we have relied on but we cannot understand this decision to not continue with Simon and Sarah and feel betrayed by that ABC management who made it.
It’s our ABC.
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Not happy. Simon is one of the reasons I have hung on with ABC. I will listen somewhere else. See ya!
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I quit abc. Simon Marnie was the only reason I listened on the weekends. Ang great locally. The world needs “the good stuff” with fun intelligence escapism empathy reality humour warmth music integrity. GH
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I’ll be going from no advertising to no radio.
I feel like I’m being denied and told I’m no longer relevant.
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Am very disappointed to learn of the impending departure of Simon and Sarah! I’ve been a glued on 702 listener forever! It just won’t be the same any more. SO DISAPPOINTING!@
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Simon Marnie is the Bert Newton of 702. How do you not have a role for someone as versatile and professional as Bert Newton. ABC you are making a mistake. Please reverse your decision because you will regret it.
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Ed and Tom aka The Chemical Brothers said it all began in Africa; actually I believe it began with Josh Zepps realising he could not work with the Kafkaesque style of Aunties so called management.
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Outrageous behaviour from ABC, two excellent broadcasters rubbished by a blow in that has no idea what the listeners want. I like many will not be tuning in to Mornings.
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Really really wrong and stupid decisions. Bye ABC
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As a glued on 702 listener forever, there are no words sufficient to express my disappointment at the changes occurring at present!😫 Not happy Jan!!
Jan Nichols.
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I reckon these axed folk should start their own online station, or find a nearby community radio station to join.
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Such a very poor decision has been made Very disappointed
Will not be listening to the ABC on weekends for sure
no consideration to what you the listeners what
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Extremely disappointed and quite angry.Why not listen to public opinion? Admitting to error and a willingness to make amends are not signs of weakness.
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I too will be looking elsewhere. Namby pamby excuses for thoroughly poor inept decisions font cut it. Supporting of monumentally dumb decisions only shows how low the abc has fallen.
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Simply I am not going to listen ABC anymore. That is disappointing what management is doing to the best presenters and government should stop financing ABC.
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This is just disgusting I won’t listen to ABC anymore and I hope other people won’t.
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I turned off 2BL years ago same old format for years and years except for Simon… really? Simon was the only presenter I listen to he’s great! Some other station will pick him up for sure… ABC your a dumb dumd…
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Kim Williams is clearing the decks to get Joe Rogan on!
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Simon has a considerable following all around NSW. Why sack this popular, professional communicator of wide experience with a vast network of friends in the arts, food and culture?
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The managers making these decisions about Sarah MacDonald and Simon Marnie should be sacked!!!!
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Simon and all the lovely people he had on was part of what made Saturday Saturday.
I join in feeling for everybody that is upset.
Simon and Sara should get their own radio or podcast.
I find Macca in the morning revolting with his ego and self promotion.
You should have dumped him years ago.
And while I’m at it, why is there sport on 702?
It’s like trying to pack two different audiences into one.
Surely the ABC should have a dedicated sport radio show just like the UK and other more progressive countries.
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While they are at it get rid of Macca.
Please!
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It has been a long-held desire of the Murdoch-right to abolish the public broadcaster and now that Murdoch’s right-hand man in Australia is at the helm, their dream is about to come true.
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You move Geraldine, Hamish, Ferguson,Marney, Richard, to achieve what?
You are losing quality presenters and replacing them with also rans who could not cope, but are now reinvented to achieve the same old political policy which is saturating our ABC , as you dictate must be changed.
I pay , I listen to you less, and I am almost at the point that my ABC is not relevant in my life.
Good luck from middle class in Australia our treasured ABC now in the control of political cultured producers and presenters irrelevant to me.
I note that you found PK FINALLY WORKED HER WAY OUT RN . Thank you.
BEAKAFAST INTO A POLITICAL SHOW.I AWAIT HER RATINGG AND
TANURE AT THE ABC
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I too am very disappointed and upset about Simon and Sarah. I cannot understand why they have been sacked while Macca continues. Who are the ABC management trying to appeal to?
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.. these lay offs are disgraceful. Do you managers really know your audience??? No Simon on Sunday?? I will be tuning out. He has a very interesting, informative and entertaining show. He will be sorely missed if he goes. Please, ABC, rethink before axing your excellent presenters.
You’d be better off focusing on the foul-mouthed presenters on ABC TV, and giving them the heave ho.
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NOT HAPPY, JAN! Don’t sack Simon Marnie and Sarah McDonald. Explanations from Kim Williams and other ABC big wigs are goobeldegook. Sack them instead. These presenters are vital to my sense of belonging and mental health; they are like family. Don’t dare tinker with “Evenings” with Renee Croch – that will be the last straw, the end of me.
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He has no idea of the 702 audience and who understands what he is saying – plagiarised from something he has read that suits his agenda to make a change even though it’s not warranted
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You forget Kim Williams,its Our ABC not Yours. Shame on you.
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I enjoyed Simon weekend shows what invaluable resource to give up. Just what you would expect from managers that have lost touch with ABCloyal audiences.
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I enjoyed Simon weekend shows what invaluable resource to give up. Just what you would expect from managers that have lost touch with ABCloyal audiences.
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Quite frankly, I don’t give a damn about your lame excuses Ben and Kim! I’ve watched ABC News Breakfast, as well as listened to ABC RN and Classic for years. And you call your current Budget inadequate?!
What a joke! Who pays for your high almighty salaries, whilst you and the other Managers and media executives decide who is best to present your programs. I do, but no more! See ya later!
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Simon was the ABC radio presenter worth listening to
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Poor decision, and making the situation even worst is the way the presenters & the public were informed!
ABC radio will lose a large portion of their current audience as they optimistically try to attract new listeners – BAD DECISION – based on what? advice from who? With what agenda?
I for one, will follow these axed presenters and am tuning out tomorrow after Simon Marney finishes.
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Absolutely devastated by the removal of Simon Marnie from Sat morning radio .
Loosing faith in what the ABC stands for and turning off a lot more frequently than I used to!!
Who is going to replace management ???
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F*S ABC “Do yourself a Favour” …. reinstate Sarah and Simon before it’s too late.
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Disappointed with the A B C not renewing the contracts of some of their presenters without these great presenters there would be no A B C. & remember if there is no A.B.C the people who made this decision will not have a job.because they work for the A.B.C or do they Your decision
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I always switch off when Sally and Simon come on so while I’m not sad to have new presenters for these time slots, I am concerned about the way these decisions have been communicated. There seems to be a lack of respect for their loyal listeners and for the presenters themselves.
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I have been a staunch listener to the ABC for many years & can’t understand what is happening with the management. I have the radio on from early morning & finish up with the ” Mighty Quiz ” . Sarah & Simon are two of the most popular presenters on 702 & are both very community minded as well as entertaining. Wasn’t the management heard of the saying ” if it ain’t broke don’t fix it it” . I think they will regret trying to entice young listeners ( if that’s what they are trying to accomplish ) . I would like to wish both Saraha & Simon all the best for the future. I am sure they will both pop up somewhere else where they will both be appreciated for their loyalty & talent.
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Times, they are a changing.
702 listener for 40+ yrs.
Myself, never a fan of Sarah MacDonald.
I tolerated her.
Disappointed that she chose to take her last week ‘OFF’.
Simone, sorry Simon rode the wave all the way into shore.
jmb
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I am sick of the abc and it’s about time we stop spending tax payers money on garbage that comes from them
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Who listens to the ABC , just check the ratings . As a taxpayer I want my money back !
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Another one bites the dust .
What’s the ABC up too. A good rating local program that rates high , gone . Glover, Sarah and now Simon .
And yet they keep the rude and arrogant overnight presenter going .
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Simon too much of a kindergarten teacher, all rolly polly puddin n pie.
Glad he is moving on.
Michael
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Feels like the ABC is going down the same road as Jaguar. You obviously want a different audience. So be it. The sooner the ABC becomes a subscription service the better.
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