Ali Moore to Depart 774 ABC Melbourne Drive Program; Charlie Pickering Named Replacement
Ali Moore will depart 774 ABC Melbourne's Drive program at the end of May, with Charlie Pickering taking over from June 1. Moore's final broadcast is scheduled for May 29. She has hosted the Drive program since late 2023.
Personnel Changes
Moore has worked in media for 40 years, beginning her career as an ABC graduate cadet in 1987. Her roles have included host of Lateline, Lateline Business, and ABC China correspondent, as well as positions with the Nine Network and BBC.
Pickering, host of ABC TV's The Weekly, will continue hosting that program and the radio panel show Thank God It's Friday (TGIF), pending management approval. He previously filled in on 774 Breakfast in 2023.
Reasons for Departure
Moore stated she is moving to Italy for a personal adventure, a long-held dream. She and her husband are purchasing a farmhouse in Umbria, Italy, and she plans to split her time between Italy and Australia.
Moore said she informed ABC management in December that she was unlikely to complete the year, and expressed a desire to learn Italian, learn to cook, and have a different life after 40 years in journalism.
Statements from Involved Parties
Shelley Hadfield, local manager of 774 ABC Melbourne, stated that Moore's contribution was significant and praised her integrity. Hadfield expressed excitement about Pickering's wit and insight.
Pickering stated that he regretted not being able to listen to Moore's show but was grateful for the opportunity. He described the Drive shift as "the best on the best radio station in the best city" and said he has a lot to learn but looks forward to the challenge.
Moore described Pickering as "one of the brightest people" she knows and predicted the show will be "really different and really good."