Sales and Uhlmann front five day 7.30
The ABC has revealed its plans for the revamped 7.30 Report after the departure of Kerry O’Brien.
The flagship current affairs show will have Leigh Sales as the regular anchor in Sydney with political editor Chris Uhlmann presenting it from Canberra on big political days.
Launching in March, 7.30 will also be extended to Fridays with Stateline folded under the 7.30 banner. The Friday show will be state based. However, on big days for local news, the format will also allow for breakouts from the national programme for state-based reports.
The ABC’s Director of News, Kate Torney said: “By combining the resources of all the existing program teams, there will be increased opportunities for each state to provide its own local edition of 7.30 on other nights when the news agenda demands it. We can and will break out of national programming to cover major state-based stories, using national resources.”
Sale s, who currently presents Lateline, added: “I’m really excited by this opportunity and I can’t wait for us to bring our audience the best interviews and the most important stories.”
Uhlmann said: “The producers, editors and reporters at the 7.30 Report set the gold standard in television current affairs and I’m optimistic that the changes planned for 2011 will maintain their proud tradition and continue the epic work of Kerry O’Brien.”
Heather Ewart, who will be national affairs correspondent on the new program. The ABC’s online chief political writer Annabel Crabb will also contribute.
ABC MD Mark Scott said: “Chris and Leigh are journalists of great experience, credibility and integrity. I am delighted they will be able to lead an outstanding team, to continue the great traditions of news leadership at 7.30 every week night.”
Tim Burrowes founded Mumbrella in 2008. He worked on Mumbrella until 2021. At various points he was editor, content director and editor-at-large.
Linkedin
Should have gone with TJ
User ID not verified.
TJ doesn’t want a 5 day commitment. He wants flexibility.
User ID not verified.
Great choice. Both will be excellent.
User ID not verified.
Gutted…. I wanted TJ too! Couldn’t Leigh & Tony have shared?
User ID not verified.