Channel Nine's Brisbane headquarters is reportedly in turmoil following the abrupt departure of a senior staffer. The resignation occurred after a number of network employees attended the Brisbane Lord Mayor's gala on October 17.
Kristy Nitz, who served as the news boss's top assistant, exited the company under unclear circumstances, with reports suggesting the departure followed an after-party for the event. The sudden resignation has sent shockwaves through the Brisbane newsroom.
Meanwhile, whispers of internal friction are emerging from KIIS FM's new Sydney breakfast show. Sources indicate tensions may be brewing between the newly appointed executive producer, Annalise Ball, and newsreader Natalie Penfold. Penfold, the former EP of Kyle and Jackie O, was reportedly expected to take charge of the new program but is now reading the news.
The new KIIS FM breakfast show, hosted by Dr Chris Brown, Amy Gerard, and Jack Charles, is set to launch on Monday. Jackie 'O' Henderson, who previously co-hosted with Kyle Sandilands, is reportedly seeking a move to a different time slot while maintaining her current salary. Industry observers suggest Henderson's role was to complement Sandilands, challenging and supporting him.
Elsewhere, independent Member for Oatley, Mark Coure, has announced his retirement after four terms in Parliament. This decision, along with other recent shock retirements from the Liberal party, presents a challenge for Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane. Jacqui Lambie has also spoken out against the use of AI deepfakes in political advertising.