I think it’s individual event contracts. There are other major events City of Melbourne is involved in (e.g. Food and Wine Festival, Melbourne Fashion Week) that Nine doesn’t have exclusive media rights.
But I dont think any network would broadcast the Food and Wine festival etc.
1 Like
Is it just a coincidence Hitch is crowned a Moomba monarch the same year Nine take over the rights? Deserving appointment nonetheless.
Yes it is surprising that it didn’t occur earlier.
I would’ve loved Hitch with Jo Hall as monarchs.
Peter Hitchener was never going to be Moomba Monarch whilst Channel 7 was the sponsor!!
7 Likes
Monday 14 February to Friday 18 February-
Dougal Beatty is presenting Afternoon News in Melbourne.
4 Likes
his profile in Melbourne pre-dates any arrangement that 7 may have had. However I am reminded that the Moomba Monarch titles were abandoned for about 10 years.
2 Likes
Hitch was at the desk with his crown 
on talking about his role with Dougal on the Afternoon News today.
8 Likes
I think sharing it with a non Nine personality was the right move, Moomba probably didn’t want to appear to be too “Channel Nine”.
Headline
“And what a special honour. FiFi Box and yours truly crowned monarchs of marvellous Moomba.”
Update:
8 Likes
A nice long closer in Melbourne tonight with Hitch putting the crown on. Nicest guy in Melbourne. Totally deserves it.
15 Likes
Video
13 Likes
Hitch is so cute. What a legend.
1 Like
I’ve never heard of a 75 year old male being referred to as “cute” before, so yes, that’s a new one for me.
But Hitch has done really well… He’s up there with Naylor and Hendo as TV news legends in my books.
7 Likes
I think cute is the perfect definition. His little giggle he does. Cute.
7 Likes
Peter everywhere!
What a cutie pie 
Well deserved Go Hitch!!
1 Like