Another popular ABC presenter won’t be returning in 2025: ‘It’s a sad moment, I’ve got to say’
Yet another popular ABC radio presenter has confirmed they will not be returning to the airwaves in 2025.
Per The Daily Telegraph, Robbie Buck told listeners on air that he will not return next year, after nearly 30 years with the broadcaster.
“I’m stepping back from the ABC somewhat, which is a big move for me. I have been here over 28 years as a constant employee, and it’s been such a privilege to have been a part of this organisation,” Buck said.
“I am hoping to still have a toe in the water here on the airwaves, and so I’m hoping to pop up from time to time, but it just seems like it’s the right time for me to step back.”
ABC’s director of audio, Ben Latimer, wrote in a statement: “Robbie Buck is an incredible broadcaster who has had a hand in creating some of the ABC’s most loved content across 702 ABC Radio Sydney, Radio National and triple over the last 28 years. We wish Robbie all the best and we hope to hear more of him on ABC Radio in the future.”
Buck spent over a decade on triple j after joining the youth station in 2003, before taking over ABC 702 in 2013.
In 2017, the presenter teamed with Wendy Harmer for ABC Sydney’s breakfast show, before splitting at the end of 2021.
Buck is the latest ABC host to confirm he will not return in 2025, following the shock axings of ABC Radio Sydney weekend host, Simon Marnie, and Mornings presenter, Sarah Macdonald.
Latimer defended the changes to its broadcasting lineup, writing in an all-staff email last month that “the roster of presenters across our networks have been carefully thought through and discussed with relevant managers”.
Sarah Macdonald
“It’s clear that we are navigating a period of significant transition, driven by rapidly evolving audience expectations. Every radio market, both here and globally, operates in a hyper-competitive environment, and we have a responsibility to adapt – embracing creative renewal to ensure our programming remains relevant and resonant,” the note read.
“Our decisions reflect the need to revitalise our programming and bring a renewed mix of voices and perspectives. By striking a thoughtful balance between well-known and refreshed talent, we aim to build deeper connections with our loyal listeners while extending our reach to engage new audiences.
Mumbrella has contacted ABC for comment.
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Neil Griffiths is the Managing Editor of Mumbrella. He joined the company in October 2023.
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Since acing Simon Marnie and Sarah Mac, my friends and I are boycotting 702
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Simon Marnie brought me to the ABC a long long time ago. What a wonderful speaker he is…and he is the reason I changed all those years ago. I’m not sure what I’ll do now.
Nothing lasts forever I guess. So sad.
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You’d have to go a long way to find a nicer person or someone to know mountains about music than Robbie.
Robbie, you have earned a break … but let’s get the Vinyl out and have a night of music!!
Cheers.
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