Veteran ABC Radio Sydney Presenter James Valentine Announces Retirement
Veteran ABC Radio Sydney presenter James Valentine has announced his retirement from broadcasting, citing health reasons following recent cancer treatment. Valentine, 64, who hosted the "Afternoons" program for over two decades, had been off-air since June.
Health and Retirement Announcement
James Valentine announced his retirement on Monday, stating that he would not return to broadcasting. He attributed this decision to health considerations, indicating that an extended recovery period would be required. Valentine expressed a need to focus on his health, family, and friends.
In June, Valentine was diagnosed with omentum cancer, which affects tissue over the stomach and intestines. This diagnosis followed an initial diagnosis of oesophageal cancer in March 2024. At that time, he took a leave of absence for treatment, opting for minor surgery over a major oesophagus removal.
He subsequently returned to host "Afternoons" until new tumors were discovered in June.
Valentine stated he was not focused on "the how, the why, the might have been" regarding his initial treatment decision.
In addition to his role at ABC Radio Sydney, Valentine is also stepping away from his ABC Jazz program "Upbeat."
A Distinguished Career at ABC
Valentine joined the ABC in 1987 as a presenter for children's television before transitioning to local radio. He became a prominent presenter on ABC Radio Sydney, primarily hosting the "Afternoons" program for over two decades. He was known for often presenting his three-hour show without extensive notes.
Unique Program Style and Acclaim
Valentine's "Afternoons" program was characterized by an experimental approach that diverged from typical news-oriented agendas, frequently focusing on social observations and minor grievances rather than political discourse. He engaged listeners through segments exploring social dilemmas, pet peeves, and storytelling.
- Popular segments included 'Rant' and 'This is What I Live With,' which saw callers such as Anna Minns, wife of NSW Premier Chris Minns, and allowed listeners to discuss partner quirks.
- A 'Soundtrack of Your Life' segment once featured a call from Iva Davies of Icehouse.
- The program received international recognition, including a Bronze Award for Best Two-Way Telephone Talk/Interview Show at the 2020 New York Festival's Radio Awards.
- Valentine also addressed serious events, such as the Christchurch mosque shootings in 2019.
Tributes from Colleagues and Listeners
Colleagues and listeners have acknowledged Valentine's contributions to the station and community. Richard Glover, a former colleague, noted Valentine's ability to engage Sydneysiders daily and encourage creativity. Peter Wall, who hired Valentine in the early 1990s, recognized his broadcasting talent.
ABC managing director Hugh Marks described Valentine as a significant creative figure in Australian broadcasting, recognized for transforming everyday moments into radio and building an audience connection.
Listeners have expressed gratitude for his work.
Background and What's Next
Prior to joining ABC Radio Sydney, Valentine was involved with the rock band Models and continued performing saxophone with jazz bands until 2023.
A two-hour retrospective on Valentine's career on 702 ABC Radio Sydney Afternoons is scheduled for Friday. James O'Loghlin has been presenting "Afternoons" since June, with a permanent replacement yet to be announced.
Valentine offered advice to his successor, emphasizing the "no restrictions" nature of the shift.