Sunrise to launch ‘game-changing’ Queensland news bulletins to combat daylight saving

The return of daylight saving means six months of delayed news on breakfast television for Queenslanders - but Sunrise is set to launch a “game-changing” solution for viewers this week

Sunrise will broadcast live Queensland news bulletins for the first time in a bid to overcome the delays caused by daylight saving.

In a breakfast television first, Queensland correspondent Bianca Stone will present local bulletins live from Channel 7’s Brisbane studio every half-hour from 6am, while rival national programs remain on delay – with daylight saving coming into effect in the southern states from Friday.

Bianca Stone will present Sunrise’s new live Queensland news bulletins. Picture: Paul A. Broben

The local bulletins, launching this week, will come in addition to the national news with Sunrise hosts Nat Barr and David Koch.

“Viewers in the Sunshine State have been loyal to the show for decades, but for six months of the year, the concept of running hour-old, networked news to five million residents, has bothered us,” Sunrise executive producer Michael Pell said.

“This is our solution … viewers will still see the main show and the national headlines, but every half-hour, and whenever news is breaking, Queensland will get its own tailor-made coverage.”

Natalie Barr with Sunrise co-host David "Kochie" Koch (right). Picture: Sam Ruttyn

As part of her expanded role, Stone will present and produce the bulletin and cross to reporters live across the state.

“Right now, it’s never been more important to know what’s happening in your own backyard, your suburb, your city, your state,” she said.

“With information changing by the minute, the only way that news can be delivered is live. I’m thrilled to be part of the Sunrise team that will bring that to Queensland.”

Barr described the additional local bulletin as a “game-changer” for breakfast television.

Sunrise airs from 5.30am weekdays On Channel 7 and 7 plus.