Andrew Probyn, previously the political editor for ABC, is set to find a new home at 9News, taking on the title of national affairs editor within the heart of the Canberra press gallery.
In a stunning turn of events a few months ago, ABC opted to make Probyn’s position, along with nearly 120 other roles at the public broadcaster, redundant. The cost-saving measure shifted David Speers, the familiar face of Insiders, into the limelight in Canberra.
Commenting on the redundancy at the time, the highly popular Probyn expressed his astonishment at the axing, “I was gobsmacked”, showing his perplexity at ABC’s future trajectory.
The journalistic accomplishments of Probyn are vast. Not only is he a finalist for the Walkley Awards on three separate occasions, but he’s also been honoured twice as press gallery journalist of the year.
His impressive accolades don’t end there; he claimed the esteemed Golden Quill from the Melbourne Press Club and was distinguished as the West Australian journalist of the year in 2016.
In a statement regarding his move, Andrew Probyn told SMH,
“I’m delighted to be joining Nine’s powerhouse Parliament House bureau.
At a time when the need for reliable, trusted and agenda-free news has never been greater, I look forward to working alongside Charles Croucher and some of Australian journalism’s best.”
Emphasising the importance of Probyn’s appointment, Darren Wick, Nine’s national director of news and current affairs across broadcast, remarked on the valuable perspective Probyn would bring, especially in uncovering exclusive stories. Notably, Nine holds ownership over renowned publications such as The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald.
The role of political editor at 9News was previously held by Chris Uhlmann, another ABC alumni, until his retirement in 2022. Subsequently, Charles Croucher filled the position in October of the same year.
Away from the journalistic arena, Probyn has recently been on a personal journey, focusing on his health. After dedicating four decades to sports like soccer and cricket, he underwent a knee operation.
SOURCE: SMH
It does seem like a good fit for Probyn.
After he got the boot from the ABC, he was mention about going to 9, way back in July.
I still can’t believe the ABC’s decision, stupid