Erin Edwards abandons 10 News for dramatic return to rival 7News QLD

The executive editor of 10 News First has quit after just 15 months announced to make a dramatic return to the turbulent Channel Seven as its Brisbane news director.

Erin Edwards has rejoined Seven after a 15-month stint at rivals 10 News First. Picture: Nicki Connolly

In a surprise twist, Erin Edwards, the executive editor of 10 News First Queensland, is set to leave the station and make her return to Seven, just 15 months after her high-profile departure. The news was confirmed in an internal email sent by Seven West Media’s Director of News and Current Affairs, Anthony De Ceglie, on Wednesday.

“We’re really excited to announce Erin Edwards is returning home to Seven as the Brisbane News Director. Erin is a proven leader whose heart never really left Seven,” De Ceglie’s email to staff read.

“She’s an amazing listener and decision-maker with impeccable news judgement and a real will to teach and develop all staff.”

Erin Edwards has been reappointed by Seven as the Brisbane news director.

Edwards had spent 23 years at Seven before making the jump to 10 News First in mid-2023. During her brief tenure at 10, she played a pivotal role in revitalising the Queensland bulletin, which had been broadcast from Sydney since 2020.

One of her standout achievements was bringing back local news to Brisbane audiences and luring former 7News anchor Sharyn Ghidella to the station after her shock axing earlier this year.

Shortly after De Ceglie’s email, Network 10 confirmed Edwards’ resignation in a statement.

“Network 10 can confirm that Erin Edwards, Executive Editor, 10 News First Queensland, has resigned,” a spokesperson said.

“Erin has led the 10 News First Queensland team for the last 18 months, and we would like to sincerely thank Erin for her unwavering enthusiasm, professionalism, and committed leadership. She has our warmest thanks for everything she has achieved, and we wish her every success for the future. A replacement will be announced soon.”

Edwards’ return to Seven comes on the heels of speculation surrounding the sudden departure of 7News Queensland Director Michael Coombes.

Coombes confirmed his exit in an email to staff on September 20, revealing he wouldn’t be returning to the Mt Coot-tha newsroom.

Channel 7 Brisbane news director Michael Coombes.

“I’ve known for some time that I wouldn’t be renewing my contract. My official end date is October 31, but I’ll be on leave until then due to my accumulated leave balance,” Coombes wrote.

His unexpected exit created a significant vacancy at the network, with insiders speculating that Edwards was approached for the role well before Coombes’ official announcement.

However, it wasn’t clear whether she had accepted the position until now.

Edwards’ move back to Seven also coincides with a turbulent period for the network, following an explosive episode of ABC’s Four Corners in August that uncovered allegations of a toxic workplace culture.

The episode revealed staff had filed formal legal complaints citing bullying and harassment, with one female reporter claiming verbal abuse had driven her to self-harm outside Seven’s Brisbane office.

In a staff meeting held in September, Seven management sought to reassure employees, stating they were committed to supporting them and encouraged anyone with workplace concerns to come forward.