Tom Elliott has been named as Neil Mitchell’s replacement, with Jacqui Felgate appointed 3AW’s new Drive host, and Tony Moclair stepping into Afternoons, headlining the changes announced for 3AW’s new line-up.
Elliott, who began his radio career on 3RR in 1993, has been a force in the Drive slot over the past 10 years, building a loyal audience and dominating the ratings.
Station manager Stephen Beers said, “Tom is the perfect choice to receive the baton from Neil Mitchell and build on his legacy of championing our listeners, holding politicians and business to account, and celebrating our great city of Melbourne.”
Elliott said, “It’s a huge honour to succeed Neil Mitchell in hosting 3AW Mornings. Ever since I started at the station in 2002, Neil has been the gold standard for how to host this iconic talkback show. I have always looked up to Neil, and cannot wait to talk with the Mornings audience in January 2024.”
Replacing Elliott in Drive will be Jacqui Felgate. Felgate is a multi-award-winning journalist with 20 years’ experience in broadcast, radio and print, who built a huge following by guiding Melbournians through the Covid lockdowns with the latest news and information.
Stephen Beers said, “The 3AW listeners have embraced Jacqui over the past 18 months during her stints on Breakfast, Afternoons and hosting our Friday night AFL coverage. She’s an outstanding appointment and will continue the great tradition of breaking news on 3AW Drive.”
Felgate said, “It’s an absolute privilege to be in the 3AW Drive chair and I look forward to chatting to Melbourne every afternoon. One of the most remarkable things about 3AW is the role the station plays in the lives of our listeners and I’m so humbled to be able to hear their stories every day.”
Completing the new line up is Tony Moclair, who moves from his Australia Overnight slot to take on Afternoons, replacing Dee Dee Dunleavy. A comedy actor, writer and performer across radio and TV, Moclair has held numerous roles across multiple stations.
“Tony epitomises what 3AW is all about – information and entertainment – great companionship. The listeners love Tony, and he loves them right back,” said Beers.
Of his new role, Tony Moclair said, “I’m looking forward to broadcasting from midday, instead of midnight, and I’m delighted to be wedged between Tom and Jacqui on the new looking and sounding 3AW.”
Elloitt, Moclair, and Felgate will begin their new roles in January 2024.