Breakfast host Ben Murphy to depart ABC Mildura Swan Hill

Ben Murphy. Image: ABC

Ben Murphy has revealed he is leaving his role as ABC Mildura Swan Hill Breakfast host and hopes to land work in capital city radio.

Today, Ben quietly celebrated six years sober, a milestone he never planned to share publicly. But during his time on the local breakfast show, Ben made the decision to talk about it on air, not because it felt comfortable, but because it felt honest.

“At first it felt too personal, too real,” Ben says. “But I realised there might be someone listening who’s at the very beginning, or someone who’s already a few years in and doesn’t even realise how far they’ve come. If sharing helped even one person see that future version of themselves, then it was worth it.”

Ben’s openness struck a chord with audiences across the Mallee, with listeners reaching out to share their own stories, thank Ben for saying the quiet things out loud, and reflect on milestones they never thought they’d reach themselves.

Since stepping into the Breakfast chair in March, Ben has become known for his energetic interviews and quick-witted on-air style. But it has been the vulnerable moments, talking candidly about his father’s cancer diagnosis, surviving an assault during a magic show in what had always been his safe space, and choosing sobriety, that have created the strongest connection with audiences.

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“Regional radio has a way of cutting through,” Ben says. “People can tell when you’re being real. And when you are, they trust you.”

Ben says his time at ABC Mildura Swan Hill has been one of the most meaningful chapters of his career.

“I’ve loved every second of it. This community welcomed me instantly, and the connection with listeners has been extraordinary.”

Ben says he’s incredibly proud of the work he’s done in local radio, and feels gratitude and excitement for what’s next.

“If the last six years of sobriety have taught me anything, it’s that showing up as yourself opens doors you never saw coming. I’m excited to see where the next one leads.”