Australian Radio Network

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The Australian Radio Network (ARN) is a network of commercial radio stations. It is a joint venture between Australasian media company APN News & Media and U.S.-based broadcaster Clear Channel Communications.

1 Programming streams
2 Controversy and criticism
3 Australian Radio Network stations
4 See also
5 External links

[edit] Programming streams

ARN run two main network streams: the Classic Hits network, which plays a range of songs from the 1960s to the 1980s, with limited newer music; and the MIX network, which is an adult contemporary format. All programming is locally produced.

Other ARN formats exist, such as a Hip Hop, Urban and R&B format on Katoomba-licenced The Edge 96.ONE, which serves most of western Sydney; and an easy listening format on Cruise 1323, formerly Classic Hits network member 5DN. Their joint venture stations in Canberra and Perth are part of content networks run by their joint venture partners.

In August 2006, ARN launched their first internet-only radio station. PureCountry plays a contemporary country format aimed at country music fans Australia-wide.

[edit] Controversy and criticism

On Monday 12 March 2007, traffic reporter Vic Larusso allegedly outed Australian singer Anthony Callea on the Edge 96.One FM's breakfast show. Alisson Longhurst, known as 'Ali The Intern' on the Breakfast with Christo show, and the show's host, Christo, were suspended for two days over the incident. Longhurst was not involved in the on-air discussion about Callea which occured during a live traffic bulletin, however was dismissed during a meeting with Australian Radio Network executives after serving her suspension. Christo has since returned to his job on air, while no action was taken against Larusso.

Former program director Rob Logan was caught in a public toilet cubicle with a female staffer in 2006, causing much embarrassment for the radio network, however he is still employed by them as a web developer.