Sarah Macdonald Returns to 702 ABC Sydney to Host Afternoons
Presenter Sarah Macdonald is returning to 702 ABC Sydney to host the Afternoons program beginning in March, following her contract non-renewal in November 2024. ABC director of audio Ben Latimer announced the decision on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, noting that the broadcaster heard how much listeners missed her voice on the local schedule.
Return to 702 ABC Sydney Afternoons
Macdonald takes over the shift previously held by the late James Valentine, who hosted Afternoons for more than two decades before stepping away and passing away from oesophageal cancer in April. Macdonald confirmed she received a text message from ABC managing director Hugh Marks on April Fools’ Day asking for a meeting to discuss a potential return.
Before accepting the position, Macdonald consulted with Valentine’s widow, clinical psychologist Joanne Corrigan. She stated that she needed her blessing before stepping into the microphone role. James O’Loghlin and Kathryn Robinson managed the program throughout 2026 following Valentine’s retirement and passing, and the ABC confirmed both will remain regular voices on the station.
Public Criticism Follows Macdonald Departure
When Macdonald announced her departure in November 2024 during her tenure as Mornings presenter, the decision drew swift public criticism. Colleague Richard Glover described the newsroom as shell-shocked, while former Media Watch host Paul Barry posted a critical reaction on X questioning the broadcaster’s move.
During the nearly two-year hiatus from the ABC, Macdonald launched the caregiving podcast Club Sandwich, which focused on Australians supporting aging parents and adult children. The project later expanded into an episode of ABC TV’s Compass. She also made weekly appearances on Mark Levy’s program on 2GB and worked on a book.
Sarah Macdonald Joins 702 ABC Sydney Weekday Lineup
The appointment of Macdonald brings a woman back to the station’s weekday line-up from Breakfast through Drive. The 2027 weekday schedule for 702 ABC Sydney features Craig Reucassel on Breakfast, Hamish Macdonald continuing on Mornings, Sarah Macdonald on Afternoons starting in March, and Thomas Oriti on Drive.
Further details regarding the complete 2027 programming schedule are expected to be released at the ABC showcase event scheduled for October 21, 2026.
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