Vega is changing direction, as foreshadowed by station bosses recently after poor launch ratings. The Vega stations will focus more closely on their local markets and will increase and update their music content from today.
Sydney and Melbourne Vegas have announced format, lineup and position changes after extensive analysis by new PD Jeff O’Brien, who says the changes are “an evolution of the brand.”
The new format was launched this morning with the Melbourne team on air as usual, but with weekend presenter Jen Oldershaw filling in on the Sydney breakfast show as the newly combined breakfast team make preparations to work together.
Songs played in the 6 o’clock hour on both stations included: Kylie – Can’t get you out of my head, Bryan Ferry – This is tomorrow, James Blunt – Wiseman, U2 – Pride, Deborah Harry – I want that Man. In Sydney, talk topics included the lack of interesting programming on tv, with callers saying they are now using the internet more, and also an interview on the situation in East Timor. In Melbourne it was, of course, football and the Melbourne team interviewed James Valentine about a new tv show.
As anticipated, the changes came after further extensive research of listeners in both cities and include:
Vega 95.3fm Sydney will combine its breakfast and drive shows to have a team on breakfast, and will introduce new daytime music presenters.
Vega 91.5fm will now be “a pure Melbourne radio station,” with all programs now emanating from Melbourne for Melbourne.
Both Vegas will launch a new music position from next Monday and will play “the widest range of music and the most music in Melbourne with a new ‘blend’ in the playlist to be revealed Monday.”
Melbourne personality, Wilbur Wilde, will present vega 91.5fm Drive and two new daytime presenters, Jason Staveley and Nathan Hardy will join Vega 95.3 Sydney.
Melbourne General Manager Sam Thompson has told radioinfo: “Vega 91.5fm will be a music station with absolute focus on Melbourne, playing more music than any other commercial station.”
And commenting on the Sydney changes, PD Jeff O’Brien has told radioinfo: ”The combination of Angela’s experience, warmth and loyal following, along with the raw fun and energy of Tony and Bec will make for a wonderful new breakfast show for adult listeners in Sydney.”
vega 91.5fm’s on-air line-up is now:
Breakfast with Shaun Micallef, Beverley O’Connor and Denise Scott;
Mornings with Francis Leach;
Afternoons with Mike Perso;
Drive with Wilbur Wilde and
Nights with Sally Rope.
Vega’s Sydney lineup will be:
Breakfast with Angela Catterns, Tony Squires and Rebecca Wilson;
Mornings with Jason Staveley;
Afternoons with Nathan Hardy and
Evenings with Sally Rope