ABC Radio Melbourne’s Drive program records a ratings improvement in its first survey period with new host Charlie Pickering, according to multiple outlets. The rise comes despite public controversy involving Pickering related to comments that have been associated with Grace Tame. All reports say the performance lifts ABC Melbourne “off the mat,” indicating a recovery from weaker results prior to Pickering’s appointment.
The coverage characterises the change primarily as a ratings boost linked to Pickering’s start as host of Drive. While the Grace Tame-related controversy is mentioned, the outlets do not present additional new details in these excerpts about the dispute’s substance or broader organisational impact. Instead, the focus remains on audience measurement results showing increased traction for the program during the survey period following the hosting transition.
Overall, the sources agree that Pickering’s debut tenure coincides with higher audience figures for ABC Radio Melbourne’s Drive, and that the improvement occurs alongside heightened attention due to the controversy.
