Maz Compton permanently replaces Ash Pollard on Hit NSW Breakfast show

Ash Pollard will not return to the Hit Network’s syndicated NSW Breakfast show at the end of her parental leave.

Pollard’s decision to focus on her family means the Gawndy & Ash show will transform into Gawndy & Maz.

Maz Compton has been filling in for Pollard while she has been away and takes on the permanent role from today.

Southern Cross Austereo (SCA) said Pollard will remain a part of the Hit Network family, filling in as a casual announcer across the state-wide Breakfast shows across the country.

Pollard thanked the show’s listeners and callers for their unwavering support.

“The Central Coast was good to me, the people were kind, warm and forever welcoming,” she added.

She also paid tribute to her co-host, Daniel ‘Gawndy’ Gawned.

“It’s not always you get partnered with someone that brings out the best in you on air,” she said. “I will always appreciate Gawndy for allowing me to be me. Our chemistry was quite unique. We worked. I’ll miss that.

The Gawndy & Ash Pollard show is no more

Gawned echoed Pollard’s sentiment and wished her well.

“I’ve been lucky enough to work with some amazing co-hosts over my time and Ash is right up there with the best of them,” he said. “I wish Ash and Pete all the best with parenthood and can’t wait to hear Ash pop up on air again at some point soon.”

Pollard first joined Gawned on air at what was then 101.3 SEA FM in 2018.

The duo then became the Hit Network’s NSW regional Breakfast show of choice when it axed a number of regional shows in favour of state-based offerings.

In September last year, she began her maternity leave, paving the way for Compton to make her return to commercial radio.

Compton, a former 2DayFM Breakfast host, said hosting a Breakfast show in her home state was the dream.

“I grew up in this state listening to the radio every morning – secretly hoping Wendy Harmer and I would be friends one day – and now I’m married, raising my own family, and forcing them to listen to me on the radio every morning,” she said.

She also said she’s pleased Pollard is remaining with the Hit Network.

“I love seeing strong and fierce women in this industry rise to the top and she’s certainly one of them,” she added.

SCA’s group content director, Jase Allen, meanwhile, noted Pollard’s achievements and officially welcomed Compton to the team.

“Ash has achieved incredible things during her time on the Coast, including number one Breakfast show results, which is a testament to her likeability and relatability to our listeners across the region,” he said.

“We’re thrilled to have Maz join Hit NSW Breakfast alongside Gawndy, she’s extremely passionate and has fit in so effortlessly. We look forward to welcoming Maz to the team full time and finishing 2021 off strong.”