News Corp Australia has announced it will combine its network of rural newspapers and websites to create a new media powerhouse – to be known as News Corp Rural – in 2018.
The venture will see The Weekly Times – Australia’s oldest and largest circulating rural newspaper – join Tasmanian Country and Rural Weekly to form a new business arm.
News Corp Rural will aim to deliver a comprehensive rural news service across both print and digital platforms for readers and clients alike.
In addition to the three united newspaper brands, News Corp Australia and Sky News will this week launch the nation’s first, and only live agribusiness TV program, with The Ag Show debuting on Sky News Business this Thursday at 6.30pm (AEDT).
Throughout 2018, the live half-hour weekly show will explore the issues that matter to the farming community across the country.
Drawing inspiration and information from News Corp Rural’s network of rural newspapers and websites, The Ag Show’s will provide insights and analysis into the $60 billion industry.
Presented by The Weekly Times’ Ed Gannon and Nicola Bell (pictured above), and featuring a panel of experts each week, The Ag Show will inform viewers about what is happening in agriculture, why it is happening and what it means.
“The Ag Show marks a special coming of age for agriculture,” Gannon, who is also the show’s editorial director, said.
“It will be the first time agribusiness issues and events can be covered live.”
Bell added: “We will have all the movers and shakers in agriculture, plus the best analysts to explain the important issues. From beef to blueberries, wool to walnuts, The Ag Show has agribusiness covered.”
Angelos Frangopoulos, CEO of Australian News Channel, said: “Whether it be Paul Murray LIVE in regional Queensland or our comprehensive coverage on Sky News Weather, Sky News has a strong commitment to regional Australia.
“We’re proud to be joining forces with our sister brands to bring agribusiness news and analysis to Australians.”
Gannon said the creation of News Corp Rural would improve cross-platform sales by enabling clients to tap into the company’s full suite of print and digital resources.
Under the News Corp Rural umbrella, Tasmanian Country will continue as free posted edition, and the footprint of Rural Weekly will increase with the introduction of an expanded Northern NSW edition available south to Tamworth.
Insertion of Rural Weekly into the Friday edition of NT News has already commenced.
