VETERAN radio host Neil Mitchell is to step down from hosting his 3AW show after 34 years in the job.
The 71-year-old has been a mainstay of 3AW for almost four decades but feels now is the time to move on.
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And Mitchell announced the news today in an emotional statement to listeners whilst broadcasting from Southern Cross station in the Melbourne CBD.
He said: “Apart from my family, radio has been my life and my love. I will miss enormously the energy, excitement, and occasional whack that the audience dishes out to me daily.
“But it is time, after 34 years of 4am starts, peddling flat out is getting a little hard.”
However, Mitchell went on to confirm that he will remain in his role until December, before taking on a new venture with 3AW and Nine.
He added: “I will still appear on 3AW as an analyst, will do a weekly podcast, and hope to continue writing and TV work as well.
“And, don’t celebrate yet Daniel Andrews, I am here until December. Thanks to all for the superb support over the years.”
The radio veteran has worked across a variety of timeslots and programmes during his tenure at 3AW.
His most recent gig aired weekdays from 8.30am to 12pm.
But it all began back in 1987 when working part-time on weekends and as a fill-in host on mornings for former broadcaster Derryn Hinch.
He got his big break that same year, when he became the host of the Drive programme.
But in 1990, he made the move to Mornings, where he has been ever since.
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Known as one of Melbourne’s most influential radio personalities, Mitchell has used his platform to help those who are less fortunate.
The Walkley, Quill and ACRA award winner has championed a number of causes in his time, raising more than $10 million for the organisations close to his heart.
And he insists that his good work will not stop just because he is switching to a new role.
In a follow-up statement, he said:
“I have been acutely conscious of that privilege of the microphone every day I have been on air for over 36 years.
“It is a tough decision to step away from the daily program. It is the best job I have ever had.
“But I promise I will continue my philosophy and attitude through this new role.
“It is one I have crafted carefully with the approval of 3AW and Nine management because I want to continue to have an impact and continue to work for the audience as the media landscape changes.”
Tom Malone, Managing Director of Nine Radio, thanked Mitchell for his service in his career.
In his own statement, he wrote: “Thirty four years hosting Mornings on 3AW is a record that’s likely never to be beaten.
“Neil has been at the top of his game and the top of ratings for nearly all of that time. It’s an incredible run.
“We’d have loved him to stay on, but Neil is adamant it’s time.”
His replacement will be announced in the coming days.
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