4BC scrambling for new Drive host after Peter Gleeson’s resignation

Broadcaster Peter Gleeson has stunned listeners with his sudden departure from the 4BC airwaves, leaving his Drive show to become CEO of a major greyhound racing facility.

4BC Drive host Peter Gleeson has confirmed he has resigned from his position. Photo: Supplied.

Broadcaster Peter Gleeson has announced his resignation as host of 4BC’s Drive program to take up a new role as CEO of the Greater Brisbane Greyhound Club (GBGC).

Gleeson revealed the news on Wednesday while on-air with 4BC mornings host Bill McDonald, explaining that his final show would be this Friday.

Gleeson, who joined 4BC in 2023 told listeners he was leaving with a “heavy heart.”

“I will be leaving 4BC, with much heartache and regret. I’ve taken on a role that is right in my wheelhouse. I’ve been appointed CEO of the new greyhound facility at Yamanto,” Gleeson said.

“It was a tough decision – but in the end, I went to my first Greyhound meeting when I was five and I’ve been involved in the industry ever since.”

Gleeson will oversee operations at the new $85m three-track greyhound complex at Purga.

4BC Drive host Peter Gleeson has resigned from his position. Photo: Supplied.

Gleeson’s sudden departure comes amid growing concerns of a talent exodus at Nine Radio, with newsreader Steve Barker also announcing his resignation this week. Barker, known for his award-winning coverage of Queen Elizabeth II’s death, is expected to leave in early October.

Gleeson said the past 15 months had been a wonderful ride and thanked the listeners for “welcoming him with open arms”.

His departure leaves 4BC’s management with the challenge of finding a permanent replacement.

“I’ll leave on Friday – The bosses will make a decision, you know, soon on who will ultimately take over permanently in that spot,” he said.

Newsreader Steve Barker is understood to be leaving 4BC in October 2024. Photo: Supplied.

In an internal note to staff, Nine Radio executives acknowledged Gleeson’s longstanding passion for greyhound racing.

“Greyhound racing has run through Gleeso’s blood for decades, so when an opportunity like this presents, it’s simply too good to pass by,” the note read.

Gary Hardgrave will temporarily take over 4BC Drive during the upcoming survey break, with a permanent replacement to be announced later this year.