After an extended period of long-service leave, long-time ABC 720 Perth presenter Verity James, has come to the realisation that there is a life on the other side of the microphone, and has decided it’s time to pursue other opportunities.

Acting Local Radio Manager James O’Brien, says: “We are very sorry to be losing Verity, a valued colleague who has been such an integral part of the Perth broadcasting fabric for the past 17 years.

“Her decision will come as a huge disappointment to our listeners, many of whom have indicated they were eagerly awaiting her return. We’re therefore delighted that she’s agreed to return to the station from time to time in a temporary capacity when our other presenters take a break.”

Verity James started her career with the ABC in Bega, NSW, on 4 June 1984 and came to Perth in April 1987. “I’m extremely grateful to have been part of the Perth community, and for the fantastic opportunities that have come my way during my time at the ABC,” she says.

James O’Brien wished Verity “much luck and good fortune in her new life, shared with husband, Leigh, and her precious cats and dogs.”

She told her listeners she would pursue freelance voicework after six months off.

She said, while she had loved her years at the ABC she wants to “see if I can do other things after so long at the ABC… I have not been pushed out.”

She said she has loved so much of her work at the ABC, but that one ‘low-light’ was her embarrasing interview with the Prime Minister several years ago.

Verity retires just as ABC Perth (or 6WF as it used to be knows) turns 80 this week.