Saint Peter named NSW restaurant of the year as new app and 40th edition of The Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide 2025 launched

As the annual Good Food Guide marks its 40th edition, Australia’s most respected food and drinks title ushers in a new era with the launch of the Good Food app available from tomorrow. 

The premium subscription-based app – available as part of Nine’s premium digital packages for subscribers of The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, or as a standalone subscription – will house the digital offering of the Good Food Guide.  

Featuring more than 900 reviews from the SMH and Age guides, the app will be an interactive digital home for food and drink lovers containing recipes, Critics’ Picks and lists of the best restaurants, cafes, bars and pubs.  

The annual Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide has been recognising the best chefs and restaurants since 1984, and this year’s Guide is a compilation of 500 independent reviews visited by our team of critics over the past eight months. Good Food is considered Australia’s most respected food and beverage title, and its coveted hats – from one to the pinnacle of three hats – are recognised as the industry gold standard.

The glamorous awards ceremony – supported by long-term co-presenting partner Vittoria Coffee and co-presenting partner Oceania Cruises – was held at the Sydney Opera House. Five hundred chefs, restaurateurs and industry legends from NSW and Canberra’s dining and drink scenes gathered as 15 awards, along with the hats, were announced. 

Paul Farag from Alalia took out the coveted Oceania Cruises Chef of the Year award for his innovative and next-level approach to Middle Eastern food

This year’s Guide includes 152 restaurants awarded one or more hats: four restaurants received three hats, 36 restaurants received two hats and 113 restaurants received one hat. The three hat winners were Oncore by Clare Smyth, Sixpenny, Quay and, for the first time, Saint Peter

With the industry undergoing a cultural change, a new award was introduced this year for Cultural Change Champion. Awarded to Women and Revolution, the inaugural award recognises the movement for fostering a positive, safe and empowering work environment for women in hospitality. 

Iconic Australian chef Bill Granger was posthumously awarded the Vittoria Coffee Legend Award. The globally-renowned chef passed away nearly 12 months ago but his legacy on the food industry will last forever. 

Named in Granger’s honour is a new award recognising a person, team or business approaching things from their own perspective and pushing Australian food forward. The Bill Granger Trailblazer Award was handed to Baba’s Place in Marrickville. 

“Baba’s Place is a celebration of the suburban Sydney experience, grounded in the stories of immigrant families and their shared experiences of food and cooking. Like Bill Granger’s cafes embodied a particular sense of Australia, Baba’s Place does the same, proudly drawing on the Lebanese, Macedonian and Greek heritages of its co-owners,” said Callan Boys, The Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide editor. “Plus they do a great taramasalata on toast, which looks a bit like an Iced VoVo.”

Firepop in Enmore took out New Restaurant of the Year, presented by Aurum Poultry Co, while You Beauty in Bangalow was named Regional Restaurant of the Year. 

The Critics’ Pick Of The Year was awarded to Blacktown restaurant Gursha Ethiopian. The restaurant is a regular meeting place for East African families with an atmosphere described by critics: ‘There is laughter, there is music, and the air is heavy with incense and potent coffee’.     

Luke Bourke, who works as sous chef at Rockpool Bar & Grill, was awarded Young Chef of the Year, presented by Smeg.  

The Oceania Cruises Service Excellence Award was given to Maureen Er from The White Horse, in Surry Hills, while Stonefruit restaurant and wine bar in Tenterfield, in the NSW New England region, was awarded Oceania Cruises Drinks List of the Year.

Cafe of the Year went to Ona Coffee in Marrickville; Double Deuce Lounge took out Best Bar; Sommelier of the Year was awarded to Caitlin Baker from Such and Such in Canberra; and the Food for Good award was handed to Rice Fund, Soul of Chinatown.

Edited by Callan Boys and David Matthews, The Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide 2025 reviews have been undertaken by a team of esteemed critics including Boys, Terry Durack, Jill Dupleix and Sarah Norris, all of whom review independently and anonymously. 

“While the Good Food Guide is the home of the hats, it continues to evolve across various price points, cuisines, styles and suburbs, offering an annual snapshot of the most exciting, outstanding venues you need to know about,” said Sarah Norris, Head of Food for The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, Brisbane Times and WAToday.

“With money tighter than ever for most diners, people want to know where they should spend their money, and be able to trust those recommendations. The guide, and the new Good Food app, takes the guesswork out of finding the perfect spot for you to eat, no matter what the occasion.”

The Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide 2025 magazine is available from newsagents, supermarkets and thestore.com.au for $14.95 from Tuesday, November 12 and tonight via the Good Food app. The app is available as part of Nine’s premium digital packages for subscribers of The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, or as a standalone subscription. 

The Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide 2025 award winners: 

Vittoria Coffee Restaurant of the Year: Saint Peter
Oceania Cruises Chef of the Year: Paul Farag (Alalia) 
New Restaurant of the Year, presented by Aurum Poultry Co.: Firepop 
Vittoria Coffee Regional Restaurant of the Year: You Beauty, Bangalow 
Oceania Cruises Service Excellence Award: Maureen Er (White Horse) 
Young Chef of the Year, presented by Smeg: Luke Bourke (Rockpool Bar & Grill) 
Sommelier of the Year: Caitlin Baker (Such and Such, Canberra) 
Drinks List of the Year: Stonefruit in Tenterfield
Vittoria Coffee Legend Award: Bill Granger 
Cafe of the Year: Ona Coffee, Marrickville
Bar of the Year: Double Deuce Lounge 
Cultural Change Champion: Women and Revolution 
Critic’s Pick Award: Gursha Ethiopian, Blacktown
Bill Granger Trailblazer Award: Baba’s Place
Food for Good, presented by Lightspeed: Rice Fund, Soul of Chinatown

For further information, please contact:
Adrian Motte
Senior Communications Manager – Trade & Publishing
amotte@nine.com.au

Monday, November 11, 2024

AFL legend James Hird joins Nine’s all-star footy lineup for 2025

Hird, one of the game’s most celebrated figures, will bring his wealth of experience and unique insights to viewers as a presenter on two marquee programs – Footy Furnace and Footy Classified.

With a storied AFL career that includes a Brownlow Medal in 1996 and a Norm Smith Medal for his heroics in Essendon’s 2000 premiership, Hird’s deep knowledge and passion for the game make him a natural fit for Nine’s AFL line-up. His presence will further solidify Nine as the premier destination for fans who want expert analysis, in-depth commentary and exclusive insights.

Hird will bring his expertise to Footy Classified, Nine’s flagship Aussie Rules program and the trusted voice for AFL fans, delivering in-depth analysis, the latest headlines and heated debates twice weekly. He’ll also join Footy Furnace, a hard-hitting show that takes an uncompromising look at all things AFL, quickly becoming must-watch Sunday night television for footy fans.

Nine is committed to delivering comprehensive AFL coverage every week, with two episodes of Footy ClassifiedThe Sunday Footy Show and Footy Furnace ensuring fans stay connected to every moment of the game.

In addition to Hird’s arrival, the network will be making a series of other major announcements regarding our 2025 AFL coverage, elevating our commitment to Australian Rules football and bringing fans closer to the game than ever before.

Brent Williams, Director of Sport for the 9Network, said of the new appointment:
“As a player, James Hird’s achievements on the field comfortably put him in the upper echelon of AFL greats. Off the field he has always proven to be a polished media performer with a strong opinion and unique insights. James played a huge part in the success of The Footy Show over many years and we’re thrilled to be welcoming him back into the Wide World of Sport and Nine family.”

James Hird said:
“I’m incredibly excited to rejoin the 9Network and be part of such a passionate team covering the AFL. I am thrilled to bring my perspective to the table on Footy Classified. With Footy Furnace entering its second year, we’re set to deliver even more hard-hitting insights and conversations that fans won’t want to miss. I can’t wait to get started and dive into what promises to be an unforgettable season.”

James Hird’s arrival signals the start of an exciting new chapter for AFL on Nine, promising unmatched access, compelling analysis and a line-up of experts that fans won’t find anywhere else.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to redefine AFL coverage in 2025.  

For further information, please contact:
Terry Stuart
Senior Communications Manager
tstuart@nine.com.au

Tuesday, November 12, 2024

Ben Avery recognised at SA Press Club Awards for gripping podcast investigation

In Just Married, Avery dives deep into the haunting 1994 murder of Anthea Bradshaw, an Adelaide woman who, after marrying her high school sweetheart, was found dead in a Brunei apartment just 96 days later. 

The podcast, told through the eyes of her grieving family, has struck a chord with listeners around the world, reaching over a million downloads and climbing into Apple Podcasts’ top ten charts in the US and Canada.

The story doesn’t end here, with new episodes on the way, as Avery continues to follow fresh leads and unravel new details. 

To join the investigation, search Just Married in your favourite podcast app.

For further information, please contact:
Caitlin Lynch
Senior Communications Manager, Nine
clynch@nine.com.au 

Monday, November 11, 2024

9News dominates at SA Press Club Awards

9News Adelaide was also awarded the Best Long Form TV Report or Extended Coverage for the special bulletin reporting of the Marion Lockdown, As well as Highly Commended for Officer Down.

Veteran sports reporter Vicki Schwarz won the Best Sport Story in any medium for Mum’s Crusade, the inspiring story of a parent of a young footballer who died on the field, working to prevent other senseless deaths. Gus MacDonald was Commended for Olympic Selection Fight

Kelly Hughes, Diana Hayward, Piper Denholm, Jason Abbott and Matthew Pilling-Milne were awarded the Best Investigative Coverage of an Issue or Event, in any medium for their exceptional work on 9News Presents: Behind Closed Doors, an investigation into violence against women, exposing the struggles of survivors and calling for change from leaders. Ben Avery was also Commended for his work on Anthea Bradshaw Murder

In the Best Graphics (including interactive), Illustration or Cartoon category, the winner – as well as all commendations and high commendations – was scooped by the 9News Adelaide team. Iris Canda-van de Kreeke won for her work on 101, So much more. For their respective bodies of work, colleagues Deanna Keogh was Highly Commended and Zach Hamilton was Commended. 

In addition to being named Best Broadcaster, 9News Journalist Ben Avery was also awarded Best TV News Report for his work on Charlie Stevens Tragedy a story that rocked the state. Avery also won the Best Podcast Series or Episode award for his investigation into the death of South Australian woman Anthea Bradshaw, in Just Married: The Anthea Bradshaw Mystery.

The 9News Adelaide team’s other commendations and high commendations included: Ollie Haig, Commended (Best Broadcaster); Kelly Hughes, Commended (Best TV News Report for Susan) and Highly Commended (Best Community Report in any medium for Bodycam and Best Scoop of the Year for Susan); and 9News Adelaide, Highly Commended (Best TV News Report for Steven Marshall’s Second Job). 

Jeremy Pudney, Director of 9News Adelaide, said: “Everyone in the 9News Adelaide team strives every day to deliver quality news reporting to the people of South Australia. 

“It’s pleasing to see the excellent work our people have done, and the commitment to news they have shown, be recognised in this way.” 

For further information, please contact:
Sean Salter
9Network Publicity
ssalter@nine.com.au

Monday, November 11, 2024

Block history made with record winnings and just one buyer – Maddy and Charlotte win $1.65 million

The auctions kicked off with House 2, renovated by Courtney and Grant, and purchased by property investor and well-known figure on The Block, Adrian Portelli for $3.3 million. Their reserve was set at $1.95 million, earning the couple a $1.35 million profit. Next in line was House 4, renovated by Kylie and Brad, which sold to Adrian for $2.6 million. 

House 5, finished by Kristian and Mimi, had a $50,000 advantage for winning the final Clubhouse challenge, reducing their reserve to $1.9 million. They sold their house for $2.93 million to a buyer’s agent, later revealed as bidding for Adrian, resulting in a $1.03 million profit. House 3, by Ricky and Haydn, went for $2.7 million, once again to Adrian. 

Finally, House 1, renovated by Maddy and Charlotte, achieved the highest price of the day at $3.5 million, with a single knock-out bid from Adrian. With their reserve set at $1.95 million, Maddy and Charlotte walk away with an incredible $1.55 million profit, plus the $100,000 grand prize.

“We are just so grateful, and it’s a very surreal feeling,” said Maddy. “You can’t anticipate how something like The Block will end, but it is the perfect ending for us. I think there is such a special relationship with sisters, and I’m so proud of both of us and how hard we worked.”

Charlotte added, “To end The Block on such a high note is so special. We never thought it would go like this. I could not have had this experience with anyone else but Maddy. We have been in this from the beginning, so it’s an incredible feeling for both of us now.”

Maddy and Charlotte concluded: “This has been the experience of a lifetime. Winning this much money is life-changing for us. We can’t believe Adrian loved our house as much as we do!”

“It’s a fantastic result,” said host Scott Cam. “I’m so pleased for the girls to win it, and they deserve it. All of the houses have sold, and it’s a fantastic way to finish the 20th season of the show, with all five couples making some decent coin.”

Julian CressThe Block’s Executive Producer, added: “I’m so excited for all of our contestants who have worked so hard and I’m incredibly proud of Maddy and Charlotte, our youngest team ever to appear on the show. They didn’t arrive until week 5 and they’ve taken out the win. It’s a great Block story, a fairytale ending and they are an inspiration to all young women.”

In a first for The Block, Adrian Portelli secured all five properties. Portelli stunned the crowd when he revealed, post-auction, that he had bought every home on the show, directly or through his buyer’s agent. Following the extraordinary reveal, Portelli then confirmed that he would not be returning next season, making this his grand finale on the show and added that he wanted to go out with a bang. 

With a combined total of $5.43 million in winnings, this year’s contestants secured the highest amount in the history ofThe Block. Over its 20 seasons, the show has now awarded an incredible $39,627,139.63 in total winnings.

THE BLOCK 2024 – AUCTION RESULTS

PREVIOUS BLOCK WINNERS
2003 – BONDI – Adam & Fiona, $256,000
2004 – MANLY – Jamie & Andrew, $178,000
2010 – VAUCLUSE – John & Neisha, $305,000
2011 – RICHMOND – Polly & Waz, $115,000
2012 – SOUTH MELBOURNE – Brad & Lara, $606,000
2013 – ALL STARS (BONDI) – Phil & Amity, $395,000
2013 – SKY HIGH (SOUTH MELBOURNE) – Alisa & Lysandra, $395,000
2014 – FANS v FAVES (ALBERT PARK) – Steve & Chantelle, $736,000
2014 – GLASSHOUSE (PRAHRAN) – Shannon & Simon, $435,000
2015 – TRIPLE THREAT (SOUTH YARRA) – Darren & Deanne, $935,000
2015 – THE BLOCKTAGON (SOUTH YARRA) – Dean & Shay, $755,000
2016 – PORT MELBOURNE – Will & Karlie, $815,000
2017 – ELSTERNWICK – Josh & Elyse, $547,000
2018 – GATWICK (ST KILDA) – Hayden & Sara, $645,000
2019 – OSLO (ST KILDA) – Tess & Luke, $730,000
2020 – BRIGHTON – Jimmy & Tam, $1,066,000 
2021 – FANS v FAVES (HAMPTON) – Mitch & Mark, $744,444
2022 – TREE CHANGE (GISBORNE) – Omar & Oz, $1,686,666.66
2023 – HAMPTON EAST – Steph & Gian, $1,750,000

For further information, please contact:
Christabel Huynh
9Network Publicity 
christabel.huynh@nine.com.au

Monday, November 11, 2024

The road to ruin stops here – all new RBT

Narrated by Andrew Daddo, the new series will once again capture the drama and danger of daily police work – from major roadside drink-driving operations and mobile breath testing to high-speed pursuits and dealing with drivers under the influence of drugs.

RBT balances the seriousness of offences with the humour of characters and situations as it follows the thin blue line and drivers through Victoria and New South Wales.

In the season premiere, Mohammed claims he is part of an unbelievable medical research program using methamphetamine to cure Covid. If you don’t believe him, he says you can ask the prime minister. Troy,44, is a man who knows his limits and claims he routinely drinks just the right amount of mid-strength beer to stay under the limit, but will Troy’s technique save him from losing his licence? And 27-year-old Karma, a good guy, has a habit of making bad decisions. The latest one was deciding to drive after downing three cold beers while he spent the afternoon fishing. Will the roadside testing prove to be bad karma?

RBT is produced by Endemol Shine Australia (A Banijay company) for the 9Network.

RBT
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11, AT 7.30PM ON CHANNEL 9 AND 9NOW

For further information, please contact:
Sean Salter
9Network Publicity
ssalter@nine.com.au

Friday, November 8, 2024

A zoo-perb season awaits! Taronga: Who’s Who in the Zoo returns for season five

This observational documentary series opens the doors to two of Australia’s most renowned zoos – Taronga Zoo in Sydney and Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo – showcasing the inspiring work of keepers, vets, scientists and conservationists as they toil around the clock to care for wildlife.

Narrated by Australian actress Virginia Gay, each episode presents an intimate look at Taronga’s furry, scaly and feathered residents, as well as the passionate people who dedicate their lives to caring for them.

This season, embark on an exciting journey as we follow the koala monitoring program in stunning New South Wales bushland, witness the unveiling of a revolutionary platypus rescue facility at Western Plains Zoo and get up close with the extraordinary animals that call Taronga home.

The team goes to incredible lengths to ensure the health and happiness of every animal, from Gracie, the adorable koala joey, to Maya, the feisty lioness. Viewers will also get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at life-saving veterinary procedures, from health checks on playful chimpanzees to surgeries on hippos and even the tiniest of penguins.

Follow the wonder of wildlife as never before – join us for an unforgettable season that highlights the heartwarming and captivating efforts of Australia’s zoos.

Taronga: Who’s Who In The Zoo is produced by McAvoy Media for the 9Network. 

TARONGA: WHO’S WHO IN THE ZOO SEASON 5
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13, AT 7.30PM ON CHANNEL 9 AND 9NOW

For further information, please contact:
Aimee Ball
9Network Publicity 
aimee.ball@nine.com.au

Thursday, November 7, 2024

Ray Hadley announces retirement

From his beginnings in 1981 as a traffic reporter alongside the iconic Gary O’Callaghan on 2UE, Ray’s journey in radio has been defined by passion, dedication, and an unwavering connection with his audience. By 1982, Hadley was calling Rugby League matches and various racing meets, marking the start of a legendary sports broadcasting career. By 1983, he was a full-time fixture at 2UE, remaining there for 19 years before transitioning to 2GB in 2001, where he continued to break new ground.

On March 4, 2002, The Ray Hadley Morning Show first went to air. Over the next 21 years, Hadley amassed 160 consecutive ratings wins – a record that is unlikely to ever be broken. 

Ray’s voice has become synonymous with some of the most memorable moments in Australian sports history. As a founding member of The Continuous Call Team in 1987, Ray has called 99 State of Origin games, 35 Rugby League Grand Finals, and thousands of club games. His international accomplishments include commentating at three Rugby World Cups and seven Olympic Games, including this year in Paris. Earlier in 2024, the Sydney Football Stadium honoured Hadley’s contribution to sports with the unveiling of The Ray Hadley Commentary Box.

Hadley remains the most decorated radio host in Australian Commercial Radio Award (ACRA) history, with 35 awards and a 2017 induction into the ACRA Hall of Fame. In 2003, his contributions were further recognised with a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM), celebrating his commitment to rugby league and extensive fundraising efforts for charities.

Beyond sport and talkback, Hadley’s influence has extended into the world of music. The Ray Hadley Country Music Countdown has spotlighted emerging talent in Australian country music, running for an impressive 573 episodes over 16 years. This year, Hadley received the Country Music Capital Award at the Golden Guitar Awards, honouring his steadfast support for the genre.

Hadley added, “I’ve had the ride of my life at 2GB for more than 23 years, firstly under the ownership of John Singleton and more recently with Nine Entertainment and Nine Radio. I leave the network with me owing 2GB everything for my success and longevity. I wish all my colleagues continued success.” 

Nine Radio’s Managing Director, Tom Malone said, “We’ll likely never see another broadcaster of Ray’s versatility, longevity and ratings success. While the 2GB listeners will miss that familiar jingle and voice at 9am every day, I’m sure they wish Ray all the best in retirement with Sophie and the family.” 

Hadley’s final day on air will be Friday, 13 December, 2024.

For further information, please contact:
Caitlin Lynch
Senior Communications Manager, Nine
clynch@nine.com.au 

Thursday, November 7, 2024

Huge year-on-year growth for Nine’s broadcast of the Melbourne Cup

Following the race, the MELBOURNE CUP – PRESENTATION held strong with a National Total TV Average Audience of 1.586 million, up 23% year-on-year.

Additionally, the MELBOURNE CUP – MOUNTING YARD segment recorded a National Total TV Average Audience of 1.347 million, a remarkable 21.5% rise from last year’s figures.

Across the entire day, Nine’s broadcast of the Melbourne Cup achieved a National Total TV Reach of 3.7 million – an impressive 30.4% increase on last year’s broadcast.

The highlight of the day was the thrilling upset by Knight’s Choice, the 100-to-1 outsider, whose victory stunned the racing world. Ridden by Queensland-based, Irish-born jockey Robbie Dolan, Knight’s Choice delivered a stunning performance. Dolan, known not only for his skill on the track but also for his vocal talent as a contestant on The Voice, showcased his resilience and expertise in the saddle, making this a Melbourne Cup to remember.

Brent Williams, Director of Sport for the 9Network, reflected on the success of the broadcast and the excitement of the event:

“This year’s Lexus Melbourne Cup brought viewers a truly unforgettable story with Knight’s Choice and Robbie Dolan’s extraordinary win. The incredible ratings highlight Australia’s love for the Melbourne Cup and Nine’s commitment to bringing the best live sports experience to fans across the country. We’re proud to have shared all the excitement and drama of Cup Day with our audience.”

Nine’s broadcast of the Melbourne Cup is  a highlight of the Australian sporting calendar, connecting viewers with the thrill of the race and the celebration of one of the nation’s most cherished events.

For further information, please contact:
Terry Stuart
Senior Communications Manager
tstuart@nine.com.au

Wednesday, November 6, 2024

Pacific Championships Final live and free on the 9Network

Nine’s Wide World of Sports will include expert commentary, in-depth analysis, ensuring that viewers don’t miss a moment of the action.

Hosted by Danika Mason, former Australian captains Andrew Johns, Brad Fittler, plus Kangaroos legends Billy Slater, Paul Gallen international rugby league representative Ruan Sims, commentators Mat Thompson, Brenton Speed and Marlee Silva.

BROADCAST SCHEDULE

Australia Jillaroos v New Zealand Kiwi Ferns
Sydney            1.45pm LIVE and FREE, Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now
Brisbane          12.45pm LIVE and FREE, Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now
Melbourne       1.45pm LIVE and FREE, Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now
Adelaide          1.15pm LIVE and FREE, 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now
Perth               10.45pm LIVE and FREE, 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now

Australia Kangaroos v Tonga 
Sydney            3.50pm LIVE and FREE, Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now
Brisbane          2.50pm LIVE and FREE, Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now
Melbourne       3.50pm LIVE and FREE,Channel 9HD, stream free on 9Now
Adelaide          3.20pm LIVE and FREE, 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now
Perth               12.50pm LIVE and FREE, 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now

New Zealand Kiwis v PNG Kumuls
Sydney            6.00pm LIVE and FREE, 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now
Brisbane          5.00pm LIVE and FREE, 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now
Melbourne       6.00pm LIVE and FREE, 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now
Adelaide          5.30pm LIVE and FREE, 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now
Perth               3.00pm LIVE and FREE, 9GemHD, stream free on 9Now

Wednesday, November 6, 2024