720 ABC Perth has appointed Bernadette Young to the role of Afternoon presenter, filling the vacancy left by the retirement of Verity James earlier this year.

Bernadette Young, who comes originally from Queensland, will move to Perth next month from the ABC’s Alice Springs station, where she is presenting the Morning Program.

Local Radio Acting Manager, James O’Brien, has told radioinfo:

“I’m very excited to be able to announce this
appointment. Bernadette has a passion for people and likes to get out of the studio to discover what’s happening in the community, and bring those stories to her listeners.”

After completing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism, Bernadette Young undertook work experience with ABC Local Radio in Brisbane and Cairns, prior to securing a cadetship with WIN Television in its Townsville newsroom. This was followed by further television work in various
parts of Queensland.

She joined the ABC in May 2000 and, prior to taking up her present position in Alice Springs, she worked in radio and television news, and local radio production.

Young is very excited about taking up the position. “I’m thrilled on so many different levels about the job. One, I get to live in Perth, a city I adore. And a show on afternoon radio means I finally get to sleep in again after years on the breakfast and morning shifts.

“Now at six am, you’ll find me at Freo pool because I’m already in training for the Rottnest Island swim.”

James O’Brien also thanked Tod Johnston for taking over the Afternoon presenter’s role when Verity James took long service leave this year.

“Verity was a hard act to follow, and it was a pleasure
having Tod’s enthusiasm and energy in the office and on the airways. We wish him all the best for the future.”

Bernadette Young is expected to take up her position on 720 ABC Perth in late November.