Brendan ‘Jonesy’ Jones and Amanda Keller have officially confirmed the news that had been swirling through media circles for weeks: they’re leaving their long-held breakfast slot and moving to the drive shift on Gold 101.7.
The beloved radio pair announced the change live on-air, revealing the move to their surprised listeners after details began leaking to trade outlets ahead of schedule.
“You and I have some big news,” Keller, 63, told Jones during their show. “We have re-signed here at Gold. Re-signed. But there are going to be some changes. Brendan and I are going to go to the drive shift.”
Jonesy, 57, added that the duo weren’t planning to announce the change just yet, but a podcast episode of “Game Changers”, scheduled to drop this Saturday, and industry reports had forced their hand.
“We weren’t going to announce this for some time,” Jonesy said. Keller chimed in: “We thought, ‘Let’s own the news.'”
Despite the surprise, the mood was upbeat. “We’re thrilled,” Keller said. Jonesy echoed the sentiment, saying the shift is about staying “authentic and real”. Keller added, “We could have stayed doing the breakfast hours for longer. But as long as you guys come with us and listen to us in drive, all is right with the world.”
Their move clears the path for another strategic shift by the Australian Radio Network (ARN), with Melbourne’s The Christian O’Connell Show set to take over the Sydney breakfast slot from 2026.
O’Connell’s program is currently second in the Melbourne FM radio ratings, behind Jase and Lauren on Nova. ARN is banking on the UK import’s show performing better in Sydney than the Kyle & Jackie O simulcast has performed in Melbourne.
Jonesy and Amanda have hosted breakfast together for more than 20 years, earning a devoted fan base and consistent ratings success. In the latest FM ratings, they held the number two spot in Sydney behind Kyle & Jackie O.
On social media, celebrity friends and fans flooded the pair with congratulations.
“Congratulations on 20 years of morning breakfast and I’m sure your loyal followers will listen to you guys on the Drive shift. You won’t know yourselves having a sleep in,” wrote Big Brother star Reggie Bird.
ABC’s Leigh Sales posted: “Yay!!!! Youse are awesome any time, anywhere xx.”
TV host Ash London added: “You two are the absolute best. Here’s to many more years!!!!”
Media identity Melissa Hoyer said the move was well earned: “Huge congratulations JAM!!!!! What an extraordinary innings for two of the best! Salut.”
The shift is set to take effect in 2026, marking the end of an era – and the start of a new one – for one of Australia’s most iconic radio duos.
Images: Instagram
