Channel Seven delivers final verdict on fate of veteran newsreader Mark Ferguson with shakeup at 7News amid ongoing bloodbath at the network

Channel Seven delivers final verdict on fate of veteran newsreader Mark Ferguson with shakeup at 7News amid ongoing bloodbath at the network

As a devoted fan, I can hardly contain my excitement about Mark Ferguson’s new role at Channel Seven! After years of watching him grace our screens with his impeccable professionalism and charm, it’s a dream come true to see him co- anchoring alongside a fresh face.


Mark Ferguson’s future at Channel Seven has been decided after months of speculation. 

In a recent report by news.com.au on Sunday, it was announced that the seasoned news anchor will team up with Angela Cox to co-host the 7News in Sydney for Channel Seven.

As a devoted follower, I had been hearing rumors about potential changes within the network, with Ferguson’s position being one of the speculated ones in this staffing upheaval. However, it seems that he has managed to weather the storm and remains part of the team.

As a lifestyle expert, I’m thrilled about this upcoming venture! Ange’s contributions to our nightly bulletin are going to elevate the whole experience – adding more zest, more dynamism, and granting us the flexibility to adapt swiftly when major stories unfold.

Previously, there had been talks suggesting that Mark might get replaced as the weeknight news anchor on Channel Seven due to a series of prominent departures at the struggling broadcasting company.

Previously, it was speculated that the 58-year-old news anchor could potentially be succeeded by the network’s weekend team, namely Michael Usher and Cox.

According to reports from The Daily Telegraph, Seven’s news management is showing increased interest in switching the current newsreader position with a two-person team.

Reports indicate that the weekend news crew has been preparing since 2021 to assume responsibility for the evening news broadcasts.

Channel Seven delivers final verdict on fate of veteran newsreader Mark Ferguson with shakeup at 7News amid ongoing bloodbath at the network

According to reports from TV insiders, it was proposed towards the end of last year that a change be made, but the former news director, Craig McPherson, ultimately vetoed the suggestion.

Following the announcement of another staff member leaving the Brisbane newsroom amid the network’s current wave of layoffs, this event occurred.

According to the Courier Mail, Senior Reporter Steve Hart from Seven News is the latest to leave the highly-rated network.

On Tuesday, an internal memo to employees revealed that ‘personal family matters’ were the cause for the television veteran’s resignation, according to a report from the news outlet.

Hart will be moving to WIN News in Wollongong.

It’s clear that the reason for the reporter’s departure from the network was significantly influenced by his weekly commute between his home in Sydney and work, as well as the fact that his wife resides there.

Channel Seven delivers final verdict on fate of veteran newsreader Mark Ferguson with shakeup at 7News amid ongoing bloodbath at the network

Hart spent the last two years at the Seven Network, but prior to that he was associated with 10 News and FOX Sports.

Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Seven for comment. 

He has now joined the list of Channel Seven Brisbane personalities who have decided to leave, coming after Shane Webcke’s unexpected exit from the sports news desk last week.

As an over-the-moon fan, I can’t contain my excitement when I share that come January, the Brisbane presenter has chosen to move on from his current role. Yet, the thrill doesn’t stop there! This dedicated professional will still be gracing us with their NRL insights as part of Seven’s team.

As reported by The Courier Mail, Webcke was engaged in talks with Seven’s executives regarding decreasing his working hours to devote additional time towards his family enterprise.

Channel Seven delivers final verdict on fate of veteran newsreader Mark Ferguson with shakeup at 7News amid ongoing bloodbath at the network

After spending 18 years as a sports presenter for 7NEWS Brisbane, he has chosen to explore a different path starting from January. He will be relinquishing his position at the news desk.

For some time now, I’ve been considering this decision as it offers me increased freedom and the chance to devote more time to my farming ventures within my family.

However, I’m not venturing too far away. You’ll still be seeing me frequently on 7NEWS, joined by my trusty friend Gilly as we continue to share valuable rugby league perspectives with our audience.

Over the past 18 years, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to receive such warm treatment. I’m deeply appreciative of Seven for standing by my side during this new stage in my life.

The former rugby league player spent his footy career with the Brisbane Broncos, representing Queensland at the State of Origin 21 times. 

Channel Seven delivers final verdict on fate of veteran newsreader Mark Ferguson with shakeup at 7News amid ongoing bloodbath at the network
Channel Seven delivers final verdict on fate of veteran newsreader Mark Ferguson with shakeup at 7News amid ongoing bloodbath at the network

After retiring from his sport in 2006, he took up the role of weekday sports presenter at Seven News in Brisbane, which he will continue to do until January.

Among several Seven employees, Webcke is one who has either scaled back their responsibilities or been let go as part of the company’s ongoing cost reduction measures over the past few months.

7West Media made significant layoffs, affecting 150 editorial team members, resulting in the departure of well-known personalities such as newsreader Sharyn Ghidella from Queensland and longtime weatherman Paul Burt.

Recently, Anthony De Ceglie, the new head of news and current affairs at Seven Network, is swapping out section leaders nationwide for younger management personnel.

He has also introduced a Friday night comedy spot and astrology to the news.

In all three cities – Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide – there are new news directors, and the management of Sunrise, Weekend Sunrise, and Spotlight has been revamped with fresh executive producers.

Additionally, the network has let go experienced individuals such as Robert Ovadia, Andrew Frampton, and Melbourne crime reporter Cameron Baud, affectionately referred to as “The Harvester of Sorrow” by peers, due to the somber nature of his news assignment.

In Sydney, Ovadia (one of the highest-profile individuals dismissed prior to Ghidella), has declared his intention to file an unfair dismissal complaint with the Fair Work Commission against Seven West Media.

Channel Seven delivers final verdict on fate of veteran newsreader Mark Ferguson with shakeup at 7News amid ongoing bloodbath at the network

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2024-09-01 11:49

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