Channel 7 Queensland news director Michael Coombes confirms departure

Two weeks after social media posts sparked wild speculation over his future amid major upheaval at the network, Channel 7’s Queensland news director has issued a bombshell email addressing the rumours.

Channel 7 Queensland studios at Mount Coot-Tha. Photo: Supplied.

After weeks of speculation, Channel 7 news director Michael Coombes has made a shock announcement after he resurfaced on social media enjoying some time on the Whitsundays.

Michael Coombes, who has run the Brisbane and Gold Coast newsrooms since June 2023, had been absent for two weeks.

In an email viewed by the Courier-Mail, Mr Coombes addressed the speculation and said he will not be renewing his contract with the network.

He also dismissed rumours about the “abrupt” family holiday to the Whitsundays.

“I would like to share with you all some personal news and set the record straight on a couple of things,” Mr Coombes said.

“My family trip to the Whitsundays was neither abrupt, nor unexplained. It had been planned for a long time. We’ve actually twice delayed that holiday for various reasons. It’s also my first break in nine months.”

Director of News at Seven News Brisbane & Gold Coast Michael Coombes. Photo: X/Twitter.

Mr Coombes went on to share with the team he would not be making a return to the Mt Coot-Tha office.

“I have known for sometime that I won’t be renewing my contract. Officially, I finish up on October 31. But, thankfully, I have a staggering leave balance and will remain on leave until then,” Mr Coombes said.

“I am sure there will be speculation, but I want you all to know that, despite what you may read, my decision is in no way connected with any negative inferences which may be thrown about. Quite simply, it’s time.”

Mr Coombes took over as Queensland news director from Neil Warren when he assumed a similar role at 7News Sydney.

Since then, 7News Queensland has been plagued by upheaval, including the brutal axing of key staff in a cost-cutting measure.

The cuts, announced just before the end of the financial year, were part of a national restructuring plan aimed at saving $100m annually.

The bloodletting claimed the jobs of more than 150 employees across the network, including several high-profile Queenslanders.

Among the casualties was beloved weatherman Paul Burt and veteran presenter Sharyn Ghidella, who was unceremoniously dumped after 17 years at the network.

Ghidella has since been snapped up by rival station 10 News First, where she now anchors the 5pm bulletin.

Originally published as Channel 7 Queensland news director Michael Coombes confirms departure