Beloved radio star’s shock on-air announcement

One of the most popular Melbourne radio presenters has announced his decision to depart Triple M after more than 16 years on air.

Veteran Australian broadcaster Gus Worland has announced his decision to leave Triple M radio in a shock move.

The beloved media personality has spent more than 16 years on the station and will wrap co-hosting The Rush Hour on 104.9 Sydney at the end of the year.

He shared the news live on-air on Monday afternoon, following in the footsteps of comedian Marty Sheargold who quit the station’s Melbourne breakfast show in July.

Gus Worland has announced his decision to quit Triple M. Picture. Phil Hillyard

“I want to thank everyone I have worked with over the past 16 years,” Worland said. “From my early days with Matty Johns, Mark Geyer, and Chris Page, to my current team with Jude Bolton and Aaron Woods, I have been fortunate to collaborate with some truly remarkable people. I am also grateful to all the incredible behind-the-scenes staff who have helped keep our shows running smoothly.”

Worland revealed that he plans to focus more attention on his Gotcha4Life Foundation mental health charity as he steps away from radio.

Following the announcement, Head of Triple M Metro Content, Matthew OReilly, said in a statement: “Gus has been an outstanding voice on Triple M for 16 years and we are sad to see him go.”

“However, we know how much his charity Gotcha4Life means to him, and the incredible impact that it is having on the community, so we understand why he wants to go all-in on this important work. Gus will remain a loved member of the Triple M family, and we wish him all the very best with Gotcha4Life.”

Worland has worked with Triple M for more than 16 years. Picture: Supplied.

Worland’s announcement comes at a time of much change at Triple M.

In September, Melbourne’s Rush Hour drive hosts Andrew Jarman, Bernie Vince and Greg Blewett were notified their show would finish at the end of 2024.

It was later revealed that they would be replaced by James Brayshaw and Billy Brownless.

“It doesn’t make sense to any of us,” Blewett told the Adelaide Advertiser following the announcement.

“Obviously our show was going great and we were rating really well but it’s a management decision in regards to the business. Unfortunately we’re the ones that have to pay the price.”

The same fate has befallen Perth’s The Rush Hour with Embers & Katie, with hosts Andrew Embley and Katie Lamb also being told their services were no longer needed in the new year.

Originally published as Beloved radio star’s shock on-air announcement