The latest radio ratings for Adelaide have delivered a clear message: the strong are getting stronger. Mix 102.3 has extended its commanding lead in the competitive market, while the industry collectively mourns the sudden loss of a beloved ABC personality.
Mix 102.3 Solidifies Market Dominance
The Survey 7 results, covering the period from September 29 to December 7, show Mix 102.3 increased its overall audience share to 14.9%, up from 14.2% in the previous survey. This significant gap places the station well ahead of its closest competitors, demonstrating its powerful hold on Adelaide listeners.
FiveAA secured second position with a 12.1% share, showing steady performance in the talkback segment. Meanwhile, Nova 91.9 captured third place with 10.2%, maintaining its strong appeal among younger demographics. Cruise 1323 achieved a respectable 9.7% share, indicating consistent listener loyalty.
A Industry in Mourning
These business-as-usual results arrived amidst somber news for the South Australian radio community. Spence Denny, the highly respected ABC Radio Adelaide presenter, passed away suddenly, sending shockwaves through the industry and his loyal audience.
Denny was known for his deep connection with regional communities through his afternoon program. His unexpected death has highlighted the personal relationships that form between listeners and broadcasters, reminding the industry that beyond the numbers are real human connections.
ABC Radio Adelaide, while not leading the commercial ratings race, plays a crucial role in the media landscape. The station provides a vital service that transcends traditional audience measurements, particularly through its commitment to regional coverage and community engagement.
The Competitive Landscape
Other stations in the Adelaide market showed varied performances. SAFM recorded an 8.7% share, while Triple M reached 6.9%. These figures illustrate the ongoing battle for listener attention in a crowded media environment.
The consistent performance of established stations like Mix 102.3 demonstrates the value of strong brand identity and consistent programming. Meanwhile, the emotional response to Spence Denny's passing underscores that success in radio isn't solely measured in percentage points, but also in community impact and personal connection.
As Adelaide's radio stations analyze these results and plan their future strategies, they do so with the recognition that their work touches lives beyond mere entertainment. The ratings tell one story of success, while the outpouring of grief for a respected colleague tells another about the deeper value of their profession.
