It seemed like the first few years of Gather Round all media sent all their teams to Adelaide but while I haven’t seen a full list I know SEN had a lot of locals. 3AW are calling some games from Melbourne.
Flights and accomodation costs for the weekend are to expensive to send too many over now a days.
3AW will broadcast seven matches during Easter long weekend. On top of its weekly quota, it will also cover Western Bulldogs v St Kilda on Sunday night, and Geelong v Hawthorn on Easter Monday.
Collingwood’s Tom Mitchell will be on the expert’s chair for 3AW’s coverage of Richmond v Melbourne this Thursday (Anzac Eve), while injured Carlton defender Nic Newman will provide expert comments for Port Adelaide v North Melbourne this Saturday.
3AW pays tribute to legendary footy commentator Robert Walls
The 3AW family is deeply saddened by the passing of Robert Walls, an iconic voice and valued member of our football commentary team for over 15 years. Robert’s unique, no-nonsense style wasn’t just commentary; it was a force that reshaped how the game was discussed on air and played a pivotal role in cementing 3AW’s enduring legacy as the leading voice of AFL.
Robert’s arrival at 3AW was almost fate. A chance encounter orchestrated by a determined Anthony Hudson, who bravely approached him during his final days as Richmond coach, led to an insightful interview that was so compelling, it seamlessly transitioned into a permanent role in the 3AW Football box.
For over a decade, Robert became an indispensable part of our broadcasts, his sharp analysis and unwavering opinions shared alongside legendary figures like Rex Hunt, Clinton Grybas, Tony Shaw, Sam Newman, Graeme Bond, Dennis Cometti, Tony Leonard, Gerard Healy, Mike Sheahan, and Caroline Wilson. His direct approach wasn’t always conventional, but it was always authentic and undeniably Robert. He brought a new dimension to the special commentator role, challenging norms and enriching the listener experience.
The energy and chemistry of Robert’s broadcasts with Rex, the passion he shared with Clinton, the banter with Shawry, and the camaraderie with Bondy created truly unforgettable radio moments – broadcasts that have become legendary within the 3AW archives and live on in the memories of our listeners.
Robert Walls was more than just a commentator; he was a character, a presence, and a friend to so many within the 3AW family, both on and off-air. His impact on our football coverage is immeasurable, and his legacy as a true great of football broadcasting will endure. We will forever cherish his contributions and the unique flavour he brought to every Saturday afternoon.
We extend our deepest sympathies to Robert’s family and friends during this sad time.
How long has 666 ABC Canberra been taking AFL on Saturday afternoons (and missing the first half of the 3pm NRL kickoff)?
Stumbled upon this by accident while driving through the Snowy Mountains last Saturday, I’d always thought 666 took NRL as a priority unless either the Giants were playing at Manuka or the Brumbies were playing.
666 Canberra has been taking Saturday afternoon AFL for a decade now.
Today is more convenient because the first NRL match of the day does not start until 5.30pm. Being the weekend before the State of Origin means a few teams are having a bye.
Think MMM were trying to pull a swifty on us for the game in Alice Springs which was studio call. As if we’d believe “Pauly Tresize” is actually a Centralian Advocate journalist (sounded like Daisy Thomas was impersonating Jonathan Brown)…
This Saturday (July 5) 3AW will broadcast the Marvel Stadium doubleheader: Essendon v Gold Coast at 12.35pm AEST, then St Kilda v Hawthorn at 7.40pm AEST. I think it’s only the second time this season that the station is covering a Saturday night match.