Don Burke is back doing what he was doing 25 years ago where it all began, behind the mic at 2UE. Burke’s Backyard is back, but it’s a very different show to what it was in 1983.

Back then it was pretty much about gardening – when to plant azalias, is chicken poo best for lawn food, that sort of stuff. In 2008, Burke has become much more the political animal and is more into opinions about the environment and genetics. His opinions often swim against the mainstream. Plastic bags aren’t nearly as bad as they’re trumped up to be, he says – and don’t get him started on dog breeders and designer pups.

Although his highest profile was on television, Burke has always been a consummate radio performer with a professional gift of the gab that few can match.

Despite his high profile 2UE has been cautious about Burke’s “triumphant” return giving him just two early hours between 6 am and 8 am Saturday and Sunday. Nonetheless, they’ve taken out some pretty big ads in the Fairfax press – presumable at mate’s rates now that they’re in the family.