ABC Radio’s Sarah Macdonald Shocked as Contract Not Renewed for 2025
Popular ABC Radio presenter Sarah Macdonald has been unexpectedly shown the door, announcing live on air that her contract won’t be renewed for 2025. Fans and colleagues alike are stunned by the sudden decision, especially given her success in boosting the show’s ratings.
Sarah Breaks the News On-Air
On Thursday, listeners tuning into Mornings in Sydney were taken aback when Macdonald, 58, dropped the bombshell about her departure. With a mix of disappointment and pride, she shared the news directly with her audience.
“Well, here’s the news from me in terms of disappointment,” she began. “Listen, I’m not going to be on the radio with you next year. The ABC has decided not to renew my contract here at Mornings.”
A Legacy of Achievements
Despite the surprising news, Macdonald reflected on her accomplishments during her tenure. “I am proud of what I’ve done,” she said. “The ratings are up. I’ve broken lots of stories, had the first interview with the new governor-general, got the Premier of New South Wales to regularly take your calls, led the election coverage, and spearheaded the move to our Parramatta studios.”
Her dedication and contributions have not gone unnoticed by her listeners and peers. Many are questioning the reasoning behind the ABC’s choice to let go of such a prominent and effective broadcaster.
Outpouring of Support from Colleagues
The shockwaves of Macdonald’s announcement reached far and wide within the ABC community. Media Watch host Paul Barry couldn’t conceal his disbelief, taking to social media to express his thoughts. “I can’t believe this. I’m hearing that ABC has dumped Sarah Macdonald from ABC Sydney. In my humble opinion, she’s brilliant, one of the best things on radio. What on earth?” he wrote.
Lisa McGregor, producer for Australian Story, also voiced her concerns. “In shock that ABC hasn’t renewed Sarah Macdonald’s contract on ABC Radio Sydney,” she tweeted. “She’s lively, warm, informed, an excellent interviewer. She can do hard and soft news, pop culture, and human stories. What on earth is the reason ABC? Bad decision.”
Fans Rally Behind Sarah
Listeners weren’t shy about sharing their disappointment either. Author Nikki Gemmell criticized the decision, saying, “An appalling decision by ABC Radio to not renew the contract of Sarah Macdonald. Why do so many of the old men of radio at the ABC seem to stay and stay, but its blazingly capable, whip-smart women are sidelined?”
Others echoed similar sentiments:
- “ABC have got this very wrong. Sarah Macdonald is so good.”
- “Seems a crazy decision given how much Sarah has done to increase audience for ABC Sydney and how loved she is by that audience.”
- “Whoever made the decision not to renew Sarah Macdonald’s contract should reconsider. Many of us have followed her from Triple J days due to her excellence. Going to lose listeners.”
A Storied Career with the ABC
Macdonald’s relationship with the ABC spans decades. She began her journey with a cadetship at ABC Radio News in her twenties. Her career blossomed as she took on the role of political correspondent for Triple J in Canberra and featured on television programs like Recovery, Race Around the World, and Two Shot.
After spending time in India with her husband, ABC’s foreign correspondent Jonathan Harley, Macdonald returned to Australia and rejoined ABC Radio. Before taking the helm of Mornings in January 2023, she hosted the station’s Evenings program for three years.
Changes Ahead for ABC Radio
Macdonald’s departure comes amid reports that ABC Radio is gearing up for significant changes in the new year. There’s buzz that veteran broadcaster Fran Kelly is set to return to daily news after stepping away from RN Breakfast in 2021.
What’s Next for Sarah?
While it’s unclear what the future holds for Macdonald, her impressive track record and the outpouring of support suggest that her voice won’t be silenced for long. Fans and colleagues alike will undoubtedly be watching closely to see her next move.
Final Thoughts
The decision to not renew Sarah Macdonald’s contract has left many scratching their heads. With her proven ability to connect with audiences and deliver compelling content, it’s a move that seems counterintuitive. One thing is certain: her impact on Australian radio is significant, and her absence will be felt deeply by listeners across Sydney.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.