Nine Radio has announced some big changes to the programming of Perth’s 6PR, including some key departures. Mumbrella reports: In a note sent to staff on Wednesday, seen by Mumbrella, Nine Radio managing director Tom Malone announced the movements.

“The advertising market in Perth has been tough – down 16% in the past 5 years, and rising costs have added extra pressure on our financial performance,” Malone wrote.

“To ensure the station’s sustainability, we’re making adjustments that will help us return to profitability over the next 12 months, while still delivering the quality content our listeners love.”

The changes include the departures of afternoons host, Julie-ann Sprague and The Nightshift’s Tod Johnston. Meanwhile, the Wide World of Sports programme has been extended to two hours (6pm-8pm) – though Nine has told Mumbrella the show will remain local – and Tony McManus’ 9pm show will now be broadcast to both Perth and Melbourne.

Oli Peterson will take over the drive shift from 2pm-6pm and Money News will run from 8pm-9pm prior to McManus hitting the airwaves.

Malone’s note continued: “Unfortunately this means that we’ll no longer get to hear Julie-anne Sprague or Tod Johnston on our airwaves. This is a sad and tough day for the Afternoon and Nights teams along with our listeners, and we deeply appreciate their contributions to 6PR.”

“We’re also reinvesting in our Direct Sales capability to boost revenue, combining cost reductions with efforts to strengthen our future. This combined approach of maximising content, reducing cost, and investing in sales will provide for a more certain future for 6PR.”

The changes are expected to come in effect from this coming Monday (21 October).

Story courtesy of Mumbrella