Krystal joins Alex to serve up Breakfast in Ballarat

It’s radio’s version of musical chairs.

2026 has heralded significant changes for some of ARN’s regional radio teams, with Power FM Muswellbrook Breakfast host Krystal Roker taking on a new gig down south.

Krystal has teamed up with Alex Newman to co-host Breakfast on Power FM in Ballarat, whilst regular brekky presenter Lara Jean ‘L.J’ Marshall is on maternity leave.

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Together, Alex and Krystal bring strong regional radio experience with a shared interest in community, listener connection and authentic storytelling.

Alex began his radio career at Adelaide’s Fresh 92.7 before moving to ARN’s Magic 105.9 in Port Augusta. In 2024, he made the move to Power FM Ballarat, co-hosting breakfast alongside L.J.

Krystal started in radio in 2019 and has quickly become one to watch, known for her infectious energy and ability to turn everyday moments into on-air gold.

After her first day on air, one listener even dubbed her Krystal the Pistol.

Content Director Amy Hegedus said the on-air chemistry between Krystal and Alex was obvious right from the get-go.

“Alex and Krystal hit it off from day one. Their energy is contagious and they are 100% unapologetically themselves – there is nothing off the table.”

“They bring honesty, humour and heart to every show, if you need a laugh in the morning, they are the ultimate pick-me-up.”

With Krystal having headed to Victoria, Katie Jayne has jumped into the Power FM Breakfast chair in Muswellbrook.

“I’ll be honest, taking on Breakfast wasn’t something I ever imagined,” Katie tells Radio Today.

“As a full-time country music artist, I worried about whether I could give both careers the attention they deserve.”

“But after talking it through with my team at Radio Hunter Valley and our Head of Regional Content, Ryan Rathbone, I realised this role could actually strengthen what I’m already building. Their confidence in me made the decision a lot less scary.”

“The idea of juggling a music career with a Breakfast radio show felt like a time-management nightmare at first. But once I understood how both worlds can complement each other, the apprehension shifted to excitement. It’s a chance to grow creatively, challenge myself, and connect with listeners in a whole new way.”

With a new album, lots of touring gigs and her ongoing role doing Country Music News for iHeart Country Australia, it’s fair to say Katie has a bit on her plate!

But she’s taking it all in her stride.

“My music career is at a really positive, busy moment: album launch, touring, everything happening at once, so I didn’t want to make a choice I couldn’t commit to fully.”

“But now that I’ve said yes, I’m all in. I’m excited about what this role can add to my career, not take away from it.”

The Alex & Krystal Breakfast Show airs weekdays from 6am on Power FM 103.1. The Power Brekky Show with Katie airs weekdays from 6am on 98.1 Power FM in the Hunter Valley.