2GB and Chris Smith have ended their relationship as protestors gathered outside the station’s office to show support for the conservative host.
Rumours had been circulating that Macquarie Media was considering letting go of the long-time 2GB host Chris Smith.
However, in a statement Adam Lang, Macquarie Media CEO, confirmed the two had ended their relationship.
“2GB and Chris Smith today announce that they have agreed to end their working relationship,” Lang says.
“Smith will attend a pre-planned overseas trip for three weeks commencing tomorrow and following the trip, Chris will leave 2GB on 31 July 2019.
“Neither 2GB nor Chris Smith will be making any further comment on the matter. We wish Chris well in his future endeavours. Chris would like to thank 2GB listeners for their ongoing support.”
The rumours of his departure earlier this week spurred on a small but passionate group of protestors.
Led by Anita Donlon, a former Liberal party candidate and long-time campaigner who has also protested against a mosque and the “carbon tax”, says she will never listen to 2GB again.
“They have disregard for Chris Smith and disregard for their listeners,” Donlon says.
“They obviously thought we were a threat because we were told they had locked the gates and doors and an email was circulated to say not to let anyone in.
“I find that very offensive on behalf of the listeners because at the end of the day, we’re everyday people who listen to a bloke who resonates with us. To be treated like that is absolutely disrespectful.”’
Donlon was there to submit a petition with more than 1,100 signatures in support of Smith who had been with the station for 15 years. She says she spoke to one advertiser, and heard of four others, who said they would never advertise on 2GB again as a result of Smith’s departure.
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