4BC breakfast co-host Peter Dick is leaving the station for health reasons. He has presented the breakfast show with Mary Collier since 2010.
Peter Dick has had a high profile career in the Brisbane radio market for many years, with stints at ABC612 and 4BC. He first joined 4BC in 2004 to present the afternoon shift, as we reported back then.
Announcing the news today, General Manager Anthony Frangi thanked Peter for his dedication and service to 4BC:
“Peter Dick has been an integral part of 4BC for many years and is loved by his listeners, fellow presenters and producers. He leaves us with our sincere appreciation and gratitude for all that he has achieved.”
Peter has been on sick-leave since May 2013 and has confirmed that after 9 years with 4BC he is leaving due to health reasons. He has not publicly discussed his health problems.
“Broadcasting has been a big part of my life and I want to thank everyone who has sent me cards and letters wishing me well on my road to recovery.”
Kim Mothershaw will remain as co-host of breakfast until a new presenter is announced.
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Replacing Peter Dick will be the most important decision made at 4BC in years. They not only have to choose well, they have to be prepared to put a lot of faith, money and marketing behind that person. Commercial talk radio is a major force elsewhere in Australia, but not in Brisbane -- and there's no reason why that is the case other than not having the right person behind the mic. While 4BC doesn't necessarily have to find "Brisbane's Alan Jones" -- in fact, right-wing shock jock tactics haven't been a huge success in the Brisbane market -- it does need somebody old enough to connect with the audience, but young enough to be able to hold down the job for many years to come. They must also be in touch with everyday issues in Brisbane -- i.e. if they don't actually live the listeners' life, they must understand it. They have to be fearless, funny and not afraid to step outside of the box. They must also have the support of a highly competent producing staff with lots of contacts, commonsense and social media skills. If I were making the decisions at Cannon Hill, I'd be having a look at who's hot at South Bank and who's got the goods on Mt Coot-tha.