Thursday night saw a historic moment within WA’s media industry with the new Channel Nine Perth building officially opened by WA Premier Colin Barnett.
Alongside the Minister for Foreign Affairs Julie Bishop and Nine News Perth’s Tim McMillan and Emmy Kubainski, the blue ribbon was cut amidst fanfare and confetti, officially opening the building at 253 St Georges Terrace in the city.
“After 51 years in Dianella, congratulations on your move to this magnificent site with an incredible studio right in the heart of the CBD,” Mr Barnett said.
“It’s an amazing addition to this city.
“I’m delighted to declare open Channel Nine’s new Perth studio.”
Nine Perth’s managing director Ray Wardrop and Nine Network chief financial officer Greg Barnes welcomed more than 250 guests including local media, advertising agencies and clients to the party which was held at Nine Plaza.
“This is by far the most modern broadcast facility in the country and it significantly enhances our capabilities, particularly in the way we bring you the news,” Mr Wardrop said.
“Thank you for joining us for this truly historic occasion.”
State Opposition Leader Mark McGowan and the Lord Mayor of Perth, Lisa Scaffidi, were also in attendance, along with Nine Network personalities including Lucy Durack (Doctor Doctor) and Claire Lovering (Hyde & Seek).
Canapes and cocktails were served as guests walked the blue carpet and posed for photos.
They also watched Nine News Perth broadcast live via the large public viewing windows outside the station’s new CBD studio.
Nine News Perth’s Jerrie Demasi performed Feeling Good for the guests – the signature tune adapted as the theme of the station’s new on-air promo.
“Nine has been part of the fabric of Western Australia for over five decades,” Mr Wardrop said.
“Generations have welcomed us into their homes, and this is a real privilege.
“Our move into the city marks an exciting new era for the company and for television in Perth.”
Nine’s new HQ occupies approximately 2500 sqm of office space across three buildings interconnected in a campus-style layout and is fitted with state-of-the-art technology for its 130-plus staff.
The focal point is the fully digitised and automated studio which is the most modern in Australia, containing the Nine Network’s first new-look news set.
