3AW Afternoons host Dee Dee Dunleavy to leave the station

3AW has agreed to an early conclusion for Dee Dee Dunleavy's on air role, after informing the broadcaster her contract would not be renewed at the end of the year.

3AW station manager Stephen Beers said "I want to thank Dee Dee for her three and a half years on Afternoons and before that her stint on Weekend Break with Grubby. She's been a great part of the 3AW line up."

In a statement, Dee Dee Dunleavy said "I’m happy to leave on a high, and with a record that I feel very proud of. I took over the Afternoons program just as the pandemic plunged us into lockdown, and so I faced the dual challenge of navigating a new show - remotely - while keeping the audience informed and entertained.

“I am forever grateful to all the callers who shared with me on air their grief at losing loved ones, and their anguish at losing their jobs and businesses. For those who were isolated, I hope I was part of the comfort and connection that radio brought to them during that time.

“Every day, I have thoroughly enjoyed hearing diverse opinions and discussing the stories that matter to Melbourne.

“I am grateful to 3AW for giving me the opportunity to grow my skills as a talkback presenter for the last 11 years."

On Twitter, Dunleavy went on to say that she was "devastated" by the decision, as she was "having the time of my life."

I was having the time of my life in my job. I'm devastated that it has come to an end. I am extremely happy to be leaving with ratings that I am proud of.

I will miss my team and my dedicated audience. I have always been grateful that they have shared their lives with me.

— Dee Dee Dunleavy (@DeeDeeDunleavy) June 5, 2023

Elise Elliott will fill in this week on 3AW Afternoons from Monday, and a decision will be made about a permanent replacement in due course.

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