Ten dumps newsreaders in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane

Network Ten has today confirmed that the start of the official television ratings period will see the network make changes to it’s presentation line-up in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.

In a shock move the network has axed 3 high profile presenters, Hugh Riminton, Candice Wyatt and Lachlan Kennedy

The move means TEN will now have solo news presenters in each capital city market, Sandra Sully in Sydney, Stephen Quartermain in Melbourne, Georgina Lewis in Brisbane, Narelda Jacobs in Perth and Rebecca Morse in Adelaide.

The changes will take place from Monday 13th February.

TEN has today stated Riminton, Wyatt and Kennedy will remain with the network as ‘Senior Reporters’, with Riminton to specialise in political and foreign coverage, plus special investigations.

TEN is also promising that there will be no change to sport and weather presenters in each capital city.

Ten’s 5pm news bulletins have been under intense ratings pressure, particularly since Seven introduced the one-hour gameshow The Chase. Nine has also recently extended Hot Seat to a one-hour format. 

Network Ten Executive Director, News, John Choueifate, attempted to put a positive spin on the decision stating that it was a logical move that would be welcomed by viewers.

“TEN Eyewitness News First At Five is regarded by viewers as a trusted, quality source of the latest news, plus sport and weather,” he said.

“Our viewers know that we always bring them the stories that are most important to them. We have had single presenters of our 5pm News in Adelaide and Perth for years. It makes sense to move to that model in the other cities and, at the same time, strengthen our reporting teams.”

“Hugh, Candice and Lachlan are quality journalists who add years of experience to our reporting line-up. I’m thrilled to have them back on the road.”

The changes announced today cover the Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane News Bulletins only.

The Perth and Adelaide bulletins have had single presenters – Narelda Jacobs and Rebecca Morse respectively – for several years. The TEN Eyewitness News Weekend News bulletin will continue to be presented by Natarsha Belling.