In a significant move for Perth's media landscape, popular talkback presenter Oliver 'Oly' Peterson has announced his departure from 6PR to take over the coveted Drive program at ABC Radio Perth.
A Homecoming to the ABC
The journalist-presenter, who was the youngest full-time talkback broadcaster in Australia when he started at 6PR nine years ago, is making a return to his professional roots. Peterson's career began as a cadet in the very same ABC Perth newsroom he will now rejoin.
Breaking the news to his loyal listeners on Monday, Peterson expressed gratitude for their support but confirmed it was time for a new challenge.
Proven Experience and Local Passion
ABC Radio Perth manager Danielle Benda welcomed the appointment, highlighting Peterson's extensive background. "Oly has great energy and a deep knowledge of Perth and our concerns and issues," she said. "He also has a deep affection for this city and what makes it such a great place to live."
Benda emphasised that Peterson would bring great depth of radio experience and a reputation for hard work to the Drive program, which airs on weekday afternoons.
Peterson's appointment follows the October announcement by current ABC Drive host, and former 6PR presenter, Gary Adshead, that he would step down at the end of the year.
A Career Covering Major Stories
Peterson's journalistic pedigree spans nearly two decades in news and current affairs. His career has seen him cover some of the most significant stories affecting Western Australia and beyond, including:
- The execution of the Bali Nine ringleaders.
- Broadcasting from Carnarvon on the day Cleo Smith was found.
- Extensive rounds in State politics, police, crime, and sport.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Peterson said he was "pumped" about moving back to the ABC. "Radio is the best medium and I can't wait to re-connect with the passionate and informed ABC audience," he stated.
He outlined his vision for the new show, pledging to build it around the listeners with a strong emphasis on talkback, which he described as "the original social media." He promised the phone lines would always be open to discuss what matters to Perth.
Shifting Radio Ratings
The high-profile defection comes amidst shifting listener numbers for both stations. The latest GFK radio ratings for July to September revealed 6PR lost 0.9 per cent of its Monday to Friday audience, with Peterson's own program seeing a 1 per cent dip.
Conversely, Gary Adshead's ratings on ABC dropped by 0.5 per cent following his resignation announcement, less than a year after he took over the Drive program.
