Lee & Jess to depart Tassie’s Sea FM Breakfast

Regional Tasmania is set to farewell a long-standing Breakfast show, with Jess Bennett and Lee Dixon announcing their Lee & Jess For Breakfast show will wrap up this Friday.

Dixon has been in the slot for 12 years, and Bennett joined as his on-air partner seven years ago.

Bennett said on air this week that they had not been forced into the decision, but it was still hugely emotional.

With Bennett set to go on maternity leave, the duo said neither wanted to do the show without the other, and it was time to give some newcomers a go.

Dixon will move across to Grant Broadcasters’ sister stations 7AD and 7BU to host a Drive show from 2pm, while Bennett will remain with Sea FM, moving into a daytime role from 12pm weekdays.

The duo said the alluring prospect of a sleep-in was a large factor in their decision.

“We are both so proud of the show we have built over our time together and will miss working alongside each other immensely, but it’s time for a new challenge and it’s time for a sleep in,” they said.

“We’re excited to enter the world of hosting our own shows individually, working hours that will really suit our lifestyles moving forward,” they added. “The time feels right to pass the baton to some fresh new radio talent.”

The final show will air this Friday, which is also the duo’s 2,000th show together.

You can listen to the farewell announcement here.