SCA has scheduled a name change for 4TOFM Townsville and KOFM Newcastle.
Both will become Triple M stations – Townsville on Monday, September 3 followed by Newcastle on Friday, November 9.
These additions will bring the Triple M network across Australia to 36 stations, plus four digital Triple M stations.
SCA management assures us that both markets will continue to produce local shows and content for their listeners, that’s Pricey for Breakfast in Townsville and Tanya & Steve in Newcastle, plus provide the widest variety of music, sport and comedy.
In addition, Kennedy Molloy with Mick Molloy and Jane Kennedy will be heard each weekday afternoon from 4pm-6pm, as well as the Triple M NRL call from Thursday – Sunday during footy season.
With one Triple M, listeners will have access to more contests and bigger prizes.
SCA’s Head of Content for Regional Radio, Mickey Maher said, “We are proud and passionate about the communities we are part of and the local content we deliver. We’re excited to bring one of the country’s most iconic media brands, Triple M to Newcastle and Townsville.”
Below: KOFM’s Tanya & Steve – “Triple M bound.”
Another ill considered decision from SCA. By their own making, erasing decades of brand value and goodwill from two large, competitive markets.
The Triple M brand we know began in the 80's, based on male skewed rock format stations in four eastern major metro markets.
KO and TO both began in 1931, dominant stations in both markets and with huge brand recognition.
Being smaller markets, neither station runs a metro Triple M format. There is the failure of erasing decades of brand value for a name that doesn't match the format, audience or type of station in Newcastle or Townsville.
SCA have their head in the sand, they have no choice but to back their silly decision. Locals and clients in markets that have already lost their local brand look at it with mirth and scepticism. As a shareholder, I'm disgusted.
It may be attractive to beancounters in Sydney and Melbourne and agencies who employ incompetent staff who don't understand what regional station fits their sell; this doesn't mean local brands should be erased.
One thing's for certain, Pricey has seen many an owner and management come and go with many a hare brained idea. Can only hope his career outlives SCA's poor custodianship of 4TO.