2024 heralds a significant shift in the broadcasting landscape for 9News Melbourne, as they announce a revamped presenting team.
Alicia Loxley and Tom Steinfort are poised to co-host the Monday to Friday editions of 9News Melbourne, both bringing a deep connection to the city.
Their joint venture commences with a special Sunday edition on January 14, coinciding with the Australian Open’s opening night.
Alicia Loxley, a familiar face for the past 12 years during weekends, expressed her enthusiasm for the new role:
“It’s a huge honour and privilege to be appointed to this role and to do it alongside Tom, who I started with at Bendigo Street, makes it extra special.
Our newsroom is filled with exceptional people and we’re looking forward to bringing you the news in 2024 and beyond.”
Tom Steinfort, who returns to 9News Melbourne after various national and international assignments, shared his excitement:
“After so many years living out of a suitcase chasing the biggest stories around the world, I’m beyond excited to return home to Melbourne and partner with my old friend Alicia.
It’s also such a privilege to follow in the footsteps of an icon like Hitch, and I’m so glad he’ll continue to be part of the team. It will be great to live and breathe this magnificent city again, and thankfully get my kids to the MCG for Richmond games more regularly!”
The revered Peter Hitchener will transition to anchoring the weekend edition starting January 27, continuing his over 50-year legacy with 9News Melbourne.
Hugh Nailon, Director of 9News Melbourne, highlighted the significance of this new pairing:
“We are thrilled to welcome Alicia and Tom to the forefront of our news team. In what will be just the fourth hosting line-up for the bulletin, this really does signify the onset of a new age. Alicia and Tom will bring a fresh dynamism to Melbourne viewers as they follow in the footsteps of Sir Eric Pearce, Brian Naylor and Peter Hitchener.
We have big plans for 2024 and look forward to bringing viewers the accurate and informative news that they have come to rely on from 9News.”
Getting thrashed by 7 so revamp hoping to bring viewers back.?
Michael Butters changes were necessary.
Not a fan bring back Hitch
Looking like a bad idea for channel 9
Bring back Peter hitchiner
Steve Williams ratings were declining under Hitch – that’s why they moved him to the weekend.
TV Blackbox should have put more thought into it
I think you’re ratings will FALL more with those 2 in the 💺
Steve Williams he’s on weekends
Steve Williams prefer Alicia over Tom though
Lachie Belfield both boring 😴
Steve Williams Hitch needs a few days off