‘Our listeners need us right now’: Nova stars on-air over Easter

Shows across the Nova Network will forego a two-week scheduled break over Easter.

NOVA Entertainment announced that its city-based Breakfast shows, national Drive show and local workday lineup, as well as Smallzy’s Surgery, will remain on-air from Monday, April 6.

In a statement, the network said its announcers recognised the important role radio can play during times of hardship.

As a result, NOVA Entertainment talent jumped at the chance to keep the on-air light on, to support businesses, clients, the community, delivering updates, plus some much-needed laughs.

“Listeners turn to us during significant events for companionship and to hear familiar voices,” said NOVA Entertainment chief programming & marketing officer, Paul Jackson.

“Our listeners need us right now, to help them feel ‘normal’, whatever that now means. There is a strong desire as humans to feel like we’re a part of something and we’re hearing from so many of our listeners (most in isolation) how much it means to them to still be able to wake up and continue to listen to their favourite shows throughout the day.

“Our role is not only to keep them informed but also to be their escape and distraction from all of the anxiety currently filling our news feeds.

“Our environment is changing so rapidly that it is important to our announcers to continue this role during the break.”

The news follows Southern Cross Austereo’s announcement that its metro on-air teams will also broadcast right the way through their scheduled two-week break.