Sennheiser Spectera sits at center of NEP Australia’s audio overhaul
The 35th Australian Commercial Radio & Audio Awards took place on Saturday, Oct. 12, at The Star, Sydney, recognizing the best in radio and podcasting across Australia. This year’s winners showcase the range and talent that continue to shape the audio industry.
In the radio category, Brendan Jones and Amanda Keller of WSFM won Best On-Air Team (Metro) for the fifth time, adding to previous wins in 2012, 2014, 2019 and 2023. Ben Fordham of 2GB Sydney was honored as Individual Talent of the Year (Metro) and won Best Talk Presenter (Metro) for the second consecutive year. The Kyle & Jackie O Hour of Power (ARN) continued its reign, securing Best Networked Show.
CRAÂ Chief Executive Officer Lizzie Young praised the winners, stating, “These awards recognize the talent, passion and creativity that drive the audio industry forward. From impactful local news to engaging entertainment, the ACRA winners are setting the bar for excellence in Australian radio and audio.”
Rewriting the rules of modern media
The podcasting world also celebrated key wins, with Hannah’s Story (9Podcasts, Nine Radio) named Podcast of the Year. Produced by Jess Lodge, Melissa Downes and Adam Buncher, the true crime series has captivated audiences nationwide. Brittany Hockley and Laura Byrne, hosts of Life Uncut (ARN/iHeart), were awarded Podcast Host(s) of the Year for their candid discussions on real-life topics. Joey Watson of LiSTNR was recognized as Best New Talent — Podcast, highlighting his rising presence in the comedy space.
Young also highlighted the impact of podcasts: “Podcasting is rewriting the rules of modern media. The intimacy, depth and creativity allow listeners to feel connected. Whether it’s an investigative series like Hannah’s Story or the unfiltered, relatable stories of Life Uncut, these podcasts are shaping conversations in Australia.”
Recent data from the Australian Podcast Bi-Annual Report shows a nearly 9% rise in monthly podcast listeners, with genres like true crime, society and culture and comedy leading the way.
“The 2024 ACRA Awards aren’t just about honoring great work; they’re about celebrating the future of audio,” Young concluded. “Podcasts are shaping how we consume content, and these creators are leading the way.”
You can see a complete breakdown of winners here.
Pictures of all the winners at the 2024 ACRA Awards are here.
These stories might interest you
Beasley radio stations raise Helene relief
RedTech Magazine Sept/Oct 2024 epitomizes radio’s celebration of change
Innovative funding empowers South Africa’s community radio
