Garry Bailey: I’m quitting radio because I’m a writer not a broadcaster

The former editor of Tasmania’s The Mercury Garry Bailey has dropped out of his new career in radio after just a few months, saying he was not up to the task.

Bailey has resigned his role as ABC Drive presenter in Northern Tasmania. In a blunt statement he said:

“I don’t believe I can reach the standards required of me. I am at heart a writer, not a broadcaster. The ABC has been incredibly supportive and encouraging throughout, particularly my colleagues in Launceston.”

Hillary Burden will present Drive on ABC Northern Tasmania for the next few months.

Bailey has had a distinguished print career, which bergan with The Mercury in 1969 culminating in a decade as editor.

Bailey is not the first print journalist to struggle to make the transition to ABC local radio. Former Sydney Morning Herald journalist Deborah Cameron was dropped by ABC 702 in Sydney late last year.

Tim Burrowes

Tim Burrowes founded Mumbrella in 2008. He worked on Mumbrella until 2021. At various points he was editor, content director and editor-at-large.

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topics ABC newspapers radio

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