Corey Oates opens up on his life after the Broncos

From rugby league legend to breakfast radio newcomer, Corey Oates opens up about his bold leap into the media world.

KIIS 97.3's radio presenter Corey Oates. Picture: Liam Kidston

Having officially left the roar of Suncorp Stadium behind, Corey Oates has stepped into the spotlight of Brisbane’s breakfast radio scene as the newest co-host on KIIS 97.3FM’s Robin, Kip, and Corey, and, just a week into his new gig, is already finding his footing while embracing the challenges of life on air.

“This was always something I wanted to do,” Oates shared.

“A few years ago, my manager and I talked about what I’d like to do long-term, and radio was at the top of the list.”

KIIS 97.3's radio presenter Corey Oates, Milton. Picture: Liam Kidston

He revealed that a chance meeting with co-host Kip Wightman at the Las Vegas rugby league event last year fast-tracked his transition to radio.

“The opportunity arose for KIIS when I ran into Kip, actually at Vegas last year,” he said.

“Two weeks later, they [KIIS] were on the phone saying ‘we’d love to have you on the show’ and that’s where it sort of started,” he said.

KIIS 97.3's new breakfast trio Kip Wightman, Robin Bailey, and Corey Oates, Milton. Picture: Liam Kidston

While he’s excited about the new challenge, Oates admitted “retirement blues” occasionally sneak in.

“The one thing I loved was running out in Suncorp every game, and hear the roar, that’s what I loved so much,” he said.

So, what does his wife Tegan make of her husband sharing family stories on live radio? According to Oates, she has just one golden rule: don’t embarrass her.

“She’s been good about it so far, but she just says, ‘Don’t embarrass me!’ She doesn’t usually listen to the show, though, which probably makes it easier for both of us,” he said.

Though retired, Oates remains invested in the Broncos’ future.

Reflecting on the club’s struggles last year, he expressed his optimism about 2025.

“I think Benny Hunt’s a really good inclusion, he’s been one of the best players in our game for a long time and those lessons he’s learned over his career, he can hand down to the some of the young kids now,” Oates said.

Michael Maguire head coach, after training at the Broncos NRL, Red Hill, Brisbane, on Friday 24th January 2025 – Photo Steve Pohlner

Reflecting on new coach Michael Maguire, Oates praised his fresh approach and the impact it’s having on the team.

“Different coaches have different processes, and from what I’ve heard and from what they’ve all been telling me, and even seeing them, they all look physically fit and that’s good.

“I believe we’re going to have a really good chance this year.”

With his family’s support and a drive to succeed, Oates is ready to tackle this new chapter head-on. “I want this to be a long-term career,” he said.

“It’s a challenge, but I’m ready for it.”