A popular Tasmanian newsreader has been axed from her position at 7 Tasmania News, just days before the station changes ownership in a major media shake-up.
Louise Houbaer, who has spent eight and a half years with 7 Tasmania, announced her departure today.
She revealed her Hobart-based role had been eliminated due to a “restructure” and technical changes.
“It’s no secret how much I’ve adored this job – I’ve poured my heart, soul, passion, and pride into bringing the news to Tasmanians every weekend,” she wrote.
“As is often the case in media, ‘restructure’ has become part of the conversation. News operations in Tassie are evolving, and due to technical changes, my Hobart-based role is no longer tenable for the company.”
The staffing change comes as 7West prepares to take over 7 Tasmania from Southern Cross Austereo on July 1, having acquired the station and SCA’s remaining regional Australian TV assets for $3.75 million.
A significant factor in the restructure involves Southern Cross Austereo’s recent sale of its Hobart TV studio to Paramount, the owners of Channel 10.
This change in studio ownership has created logistical challenges for 7 Tasmania’s news presentation from Hobart, with the station now planning to centralise all news presentation at its brand new Charles St studio in Launceston rather than splitting presentation across both cities.
The newsreader explained that relocating was not an option for her.
“As much as I love Launnie and the rest of this beautiful state, unfortunately I can’t uproot my young family to continue in the role,” she said.
“To the reporters, producers, news directors, camera operators, editors, pilots, and studio legends – you are the best in the business and working alongside you has been a privilege.”
Houbaer said she is now seeking new opportunities in media, communications or similar fields.
