Robin Bailey says she was “blindsided” by ARN’s decision, reported earlier, not to renew her contract at 97.3FM Brisbane.
She has told radioinfo in a statement:
After minimal feedback during a protracted negotiation period at no stage did ARN make me any offer for 2017. I was ambushed this morning and told of the decision to cease my employment with the station. This was not a joint decision and I certainly saw my future with 97.3, a place that has been my home and my solace for so many years.
I love radio and I have loved my ten years on air at 97.3FM. It was not only a job for me, it has been my home, my family and you the listeners have been my friends and supporters in the good times and the bad.
After such a long and positive relationship at 97.3 I would have anticipated a more respectful approach to my departure.
To the loyal Brisbane listeners and public, thank you for allowing me into your lives and thank you for being such an important part of mine. I will be back on radio, it’s who I am, it’s what I do and it is what I love – I can promise you that Brisbane.
“ARN tried very hard to keep Robin at 97.3. While we won’t comment on specific elements of contract negotiations for privacy reasons, what we can say is this negotiation was ongoing for a long period of time with Robin’s management. We are very disappointed we weren’t able to agree to terms, but unfortunately, based on the information ARN was consistently given throughout the negotiation process, we were led into a position where we were unable to proceed with contract renewal.”