Regional Radio Executive Suspended After On-Stage Groping
A prominent regional radio executive has been suspended from his position following an incident of alleged groping that occurred in front of a live audience at the Australian Audio Awards. Guy Ashford, identified as the head of Newcastle-based radio station 2HD, was on stage at Carriageworks in Sydney on Thursday evening.
Witnesses report that during an embrace with award recipient Cheralyn Darcey, Ashford’s hand reportedly made contact with her backside. The moment was met with gasps from the assembled crowd.
Award Winner Groped by Her Superior
Darcey, a radio host employed by Ashford at 2HD, was accepting an award for best newcomer at the time of the incident. Following the event, other attendees expressed their dismay. One individual described the act as “grubby” and conveyed sympathy for Darcey.
2HD is owned by the Super Radio Network, which also operates Sydney station 2SM. In response to the allegations, Graham Mott, the Super Radio Network’s managing director, stated that an apology had been extended to Ms. Darcey and her husband. He confirmed that Mr. Ashford has been suspended pending further discussions regarding the matter.
Industry Recognition Amidst Controversy
Cheralyn Darcey was honored for her work on “The Nightline” on 2HD, a program that originates from Newcastle and is syndicated to various stations, including 2SM in Sydney. She later shared a video on social media celebrating her award win, though the footage did not include the alleged groping incident.
In her social media post, Darcey expressed her surprise and gratitude for receiving the “Best Newcomer On-Air Medium Market” award. She highlighted the opportunity to connect with colleagues and mentors within the radio industry and acknowledged the listeners who support Australian radio, particularly those who tune into “The Nightline.”
