The Shebang - Changes

Changes

Throughout 2006, there were rumours that The Shebang would be moved to the breakfast shift, replacing struggling breakfast show The Cage in the Sydney and Melbourne markets. This was all but confirmed in a report in The Daily Telegraph on 3 November 2006, which suggested the move would be announced shortly for 2007, and would make Box one of the highest-earning women in radio.

It was reported on 29 November 2006 in the Melbourne Herald Sun, that Fifi and Marty had recently filmed a pilot of The Shebang chat show concept called The Late Night Little Big Show with comedians Glenn Robbins and Tony Martin. The article makes reference also that Nine Network has given it the thumbs-down, but Seven Network is considering it. Also the article mentions that the negotiations between The Shebang and The Cage shows and time slots are still in progress and nothing is confirmed at this stage.

In an article, Fifi Box is understood to have signed a new contract worth $500,000 a year, making her one of the highest paid women on the air.

Austereo had announced on 14 December that The Shebang would move to the morning shift for Triple M Sydney in 2007. Wil Anderson has taken over the drive-time shift as of 2 April 2007 with the show Wil & Lehmo airing from 4pm to 6pm Monday to Friday. (After 2 years and poor ratings Wil and Lehmo were replaced by Roy and H.G. of Triple J fame at the start of 2009) At the end of 2007, it was announced that Paul Murray would be joining The Shebang in 2008 in a bid to lift soft ratings. The addition of Paul Murray came with a more "newsy" approach. Ironically, The Shebang's ratings plummeted with the addition of Paul Murray.

In 2008, Triple M's Anthony Maroon replaced Drew (who was then put on the morning shift) as anchor. The reason for this is unknown.

Unfortunately, without any promotion or in any way letting the listeners to The Shebang know, Friday 31 October 2008 brought about the final edition of The Shebang. It was sprung without warning, with Fifi Box and Paul Murray left to say goodbye without the presence of Marty Sheargold.

The Shebang Podcast was removed from iTunes on 1 November, with the last 7 shows not being available for download.

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