Saturday Magazine

MACCA’s Back! Macca and Nevena are back in the hosting seats together this week. Macca and Nevena take you through the week that was, views, reviews and news plus a very special message from Macca. The post Sat, 7th, Feb, 2026: Weekly Wrap Up with Nevena and Macca, “Special Message from Macca” appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

For the last segment of the week, Nevena and Kenny were joined live in the studio by Glen Charlie Dunks, Film Critics as they discuss the 2026 Oscar Nominations. Glenn Charlie Dunks is an award-winning film critic from Melbourne, Australia. He is the founder and writ\er behind the reDocumented website, launched in May 2025. For ten years, Glenn has been an active part of the Australian film scene as a critic and journalist. Getting his start with the Geelong/Surf Coast-based street press Forte Magazine, he progressed to writing regularly for Trespass and Onya Magazine as well as his personal blog. In 2010, Glenn began writing film reviews and features for Australian print institution The Big Issue. In the following decade, he has contributed to world-renowned publications such as The Guardian, Vanity Fair and The Film Experience where he covers documentary film on a weekly basis. In Australia, his work has been published across outlets including Metro Magazine, ScreenHub, Flicks Australia, Junkee, SBS Film, SBS Sexuality, Broadsheet, Quickflix, Concrete Playground and the online edition of Overland Journal. He is also the regular film critic for Air Nuigini’s Paradise Magazine. His work has been republished by IndieWire’s Women and Hollywood blog and the Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance union’s quarterly print publication The Equity Magazine. He has also been spotlighted by The Age. In 2013 he sat on the FIPRESCI Jury for the 56th San Francisco International Film Festival alongside Vincent Musetto and Mario Abbade, awarding their top prize to Sébastien Betbeder’s Nights with Théodore. In 2014, he joined the FIPRESCI Jury of the 25th Stockholm International Film Festival alongside Quirijn Foeken and Dieter Wieczorek, with the award going to Savario Costanzo’s Hungry Hearts starring Adam Driver. In 2020, Glenn joined the ‘virtual’ DOK Leipzig festival with Yun-hua Chen and Hrvoje Puksek, awarding Dario Doria’s Vincenta. Later in 2016, he was on the competition jury for the 2nd Czech & Slovak Film Festival of Australia alongside Hayley Inch and Tom Clift, awarding Marko Skop’s Eva Nova. Additionally, he has worked as a programming consultant for the San Francisco International Film Festival and the Sydney Underground Film Festival. In 2019, he moderated an industry panel Q&A at the Environmental Film Festival of Australia for the film Grit. Glenn has also been a judge on the ATOM Awards documentary selection panels across four separate years. In 2022, he became a voter for the Golden Globe Awards. In 2023, he was once again accepted as an international voter for the awards. Glenn has attended and/or covered a further variety of other festivals including Sundance, New York, Tribeca, DOC NYC, NewFest, BAMcinemaFest, Dances with Films, Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne Queer, Mardi Gras Film Festival, and a variety of local cultural film events including the Russian, French and Spanish film festivals and AFI/AACTA Awards. In 2013 he also attended and covered the Twin Peaks Festival in North Bend, Washington State. As an interviewer, Glenn has spoken to some of the most accomplished and respected names in film in Australia and the world. Filmmakers and artists including Tim Burton, Amy Adams, John Waters, Margaret Cho, Guy Maddin, Isaac Julien, Neil Armfield, Rachel Perkins, Sam Neill, Jamie Babbit, Grímur Hákonarson, Stephen Dunn, Andrew Ahn, Grant Scicluna, Matt Sobel, Christoph Waltz, Krysten Ritter, Sophie Hyde, Bentley Dean, Sara Jordenö, Max Gogarty, William Fairman, Nickolas Bird, Poppy Stockell, Charlie Hill-Smith, Nick Eynaud, Lucy Fry and John Jarratt. The post Sat, 31st Jan, 2026: Glen Charlie Dunks, Film Critic, Oscar Nominations: Sunrises? Shuns? and Duds? appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Nevena and Kenny are joined live in the studio by Alex Makin, Lord Mayor, City of Port Phillip, Latest in City of Port Phillip; Alex also took part in the Plunge for Pride abseiling from the top of the Pride Centre. Alex Makin, has lived in Port Phillip for over a decade, residing in Port Melbourne and the Montague Ward, drawn to its vibrant community and central location to beaches, markets, arts and culture. Alex brings extensive experience from both the private and not-for-profit sectors. He founded and ran a consulting business for nearly a decade before transitioning into strategic management roles within the not-for-profit sector. Alex is also a lecturer in postgraduate studies teaching Business Strategy, Marketing and Data Analytics. His leadership journey began as one of Victoria’s youngest politically independent Mayors. He previously served on Maroondah City Council (2005 to 2012) and as Mayor in 2010, where he helped transform Ringwood into a dynamic urban centre. He will be drawing on this experience to help Fishermans Bend fulfil its potential as Australia’s largest urban renewal. The post Sat, 31st Jan, 2026: Alex Makin, Lord Mayor, City of Port Phillip, Latest in City of Port Phillip including the forthcoming St Kilda Festival appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Nevena and Kenny are joined live in the studio by Lucio Ribeiro – Chief Innovation Officer, TBWA Australia; RMIT Lecturer & Forbes Columnist, Will AI Democratise or Terrorise? Lucio has held senior executive roles at Optus, Nine, and Seven, founder of three tech businesses, a former lecturer at RMIT and Deakin. His consultancy work includes partnerships with Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Goldman Sachs, NVidia, Mondelez, and SpaceX. Lucio is also a regular global speaker on innovation and emerging technology. He’s worked across major media and tech companies, writes on AI for Forbes, and recently helped launch Australia’s first AI Film Festival, Disrupt, to showcase how Australians are already using this technology in creative ways The post Sat, 31st Jan, 2026: Lucio Ribeiro – Chief Innovation Officer, TBWA Australia; Will AI Democratise or Terrorise? appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Vicki Ward, MP Eltham, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Natural Disaster Recovery, Minister for Equality; Affirming Your Identity Is Now Free In Victoria. Vicki Ward, as the Victorian Minister for Equality, was involved in the passing of an updated anti-vilification law in 2025. Key aspects of the update include making it easier for police to charge those who make hateful speech, lowering the threshold for criminal charges, and providing greater protection for the LGBTQIA+ community and people with a disability. The legislation removed a contentious defence for genuine political purposes after community concerns that it could be misused. The Affirmation Station is Australia’s first dedicated, trans-led community and peer support hub, created in partnership with Transgender Victoria (TGV). It offers a space to explore gender identity, access peer navigation, shop for gender-affirming items, and engage in social activities. Affirmation Station is Australia’s first trans-led community and peer support hub run by Transgender Victoria. This dedicated trans-centric space offers a range of gender-affirming services in a friendly and safer environment. Connect with community, explore your gender and purchase gender-affirming items, all under one roof. https://www.tgv.org.au/affirmation-station   The post Sat, 31st Jan, 2026: Vicki Ward – MP Eltham & Min for Equality, New Transgender Vic Affirmation Stations appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Nevena, Misha and Kenny are joined live on air by Ged Kearney – MP Cooper – Asst Min for Prevention of Family Violence & Asst Min Social Service, Ged Kearney is the Australian Labor Party MP for Cooper (since 2018) and serves as the Federal Assistant Minister for Social Services and Assistant Minister for Prevention of Family Violence. In this appearance JOY Media, she discussed new more new Medicare Urgent Care Clinics opening + Fed/State hospital funding deal struck yesterday by National Cabinet The post Sat, 31st Jan, 2026: Ged Kearney – MP Cooper – Asst Min for Prevention of Family Violence & Asst Min Social Service, new Medicare Urgent Care Clinics Opening appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Nevena and Kenny and Misha are joined live on air by Nicholas Reece – Lord Mayor of Melbourne, as they discuss The LOVING exhibition at City Gallery, Midsumma, AO26 The post Sat, 31st Jan, 2026: Nicholas Reece – Lord Mayor of Melbourne, The LOVING exhibition at City Gallery, Midsumma, AO26 appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Nevena and Kenny are joined live in the studio by Misha Ketchell – Editor, The Conversation, Demise of VIcHealth; Coalition chaos; Australia Day bomb in Perth; Herzog visit; Trump’s Board of Peace,   The post Sat, 31st Jan, 2026: Misha Ketchell – Editor, The Conversation, Demise of VIcHealth; Coalition chaos; Australia Day bomb in Perth; Herzog visit; Trump’s Board of Peace appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Nevena and Kenny are driving seat this week, with Jon Wintle on the panel. As they discuss what’s coming up on this week’s show. The news, views, reviews of the week that was and a special on air guest appearance by Paul Horwell, President of the Victoria Pride Centre as he discusses Plunge for Pride, Midsumma, Pride March and so much more… The post Sat, 31st Jan, 2026: Weekly Wrap Up with Nevena, Kenny and Special Guest Paul Horwell appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Nevena and Macca are joined live on air by Josh Moyes – Writer & Actor, Finding Glitter in the Storm, Midsumma Premier From a Unique Queer Voice Josh Moyes, a queer kid growing up in Byron, just wanted a doll for Christmas, but ‘Santa’ left a bong. Finding Glitter in the Storm is a darkly comic queer coming-of-age story. After moving from Geelong (Djilang) to the outskirts of Byron Bay (Bundjalung Nation), where the family bought a pirate ship, they were quickly crowned the town pirates – a perfect analogy for their beautiful dysfunction. Josh – queer, tender, and a rainbow rebel from a crew of renegade castaways – discovered how to find the sparkle looking from the shore at a sea of stoners and wave-chasers. Josh playfully and respectfully unpacks contradictions in the Byron Bay laid-back lifestyle. The show offers a unique voice about the unexpected beauty in growing up different. Through heart, humour, and unfiltered honesty, this skilful storytelling will leave you grinning and a little braver.   Josh Moyes (writer, actor). A neurodivergent artist, Josh began studying performance at WAAPA before completing a Bachelor of Creative Writing at Curtin University. He trained in Los Angeles with acclaimed acting coach Eric Morris, performed playback theatre at festivals around Australia, and his storytelling was praised at The Moth by comedian the late Cal Wilson as “superb – great story.” With years in the community and humanities sectors, Josh brings lived experience and lyrical wit to the stage. Finding Glitter in the Storm marks the emergence of a distinctive new voice in Australian theatre – funny, fierce, and deeply human. Accompanied by an atmospheric musical instrument guest, this Midsumma premiere celebrates the courage it takes to keep dancing in the downpour – a love letter to the misfits and late bloomers, and a call to and from the inner artist in us all who never quite fit the script. A spectacle, it proves that glitter can always be found in the storm. The post Sat, 24th, Jan, 2026: Josh Moyes – Writer & Actor, Finding Glitter in the Storm, Midsumma Premier From a Unique Queer Voice appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Nevena and Macca talk to Oscar Revelins, live in the studio to talk to about the process of going about being published in Australia if you’re a new author. Oscar Revelins studied theatre, film, and television at the University of California, Los Angeles, before pivoting to English Literature and graduating with a Bachelor of Arts at the University of Western Australia. He was born in Melbourne, spent nine years in Los Angeles, and then two in Perth, before settling back in Melbourne, where he currently resides. In 2025, he published his debut novel Delicate Friends, won the Varnish Prize for Fiction with The Light Declines, received third prize at the My Brother Jack Literary Awards with Bishops, and was selected for the Perth Queer Film Festival with After The Funeral. In 2024, he was published on the Grattan Street Press blog with his article What I Wish I’d Known Trying to Publish a Book at 23 with No Connections. As a teenager in high school, his two novellas Smoke Tricks and Deserted received gold and silver keys respectively from the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards in 2017. https://www.oscarrevelins.com/delicatefriends   Perth, Western Australia. Spring bleeds into a sweltering summer as twenty-year-old Austin finds himself in unfamiliar territory. After abandoning his grief-stained life in Melbourne, reinvention could be his salvation – if only he knew where to find it. As Austin navigates class dynamics, social isolation, and a taut relationship with his estranged cousin, he meets Ezra: handsome, older, and romantically jaded. Where Austin is reckless and petulant, Ezra is measured and guarded, though despite their polarity, they find themselves entangled in an unorthodox friendship that teeters between desire and disaster. When wounds from both their pasts reopen, they must face the uncertainty of vulnerability or risk losing themselves – and each other – in the process. ‘Delicate Friends’ explores the thrilling yet painful grey area between friends and lovers, and charts the masochistic games we play in the pursuit of belonging. The post Sat, 24th, Jan, 2026: Oscar Revelins, Author of Delicate Friends appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Macca and Nevena are joined live on air by Dr. Chris Pepin-Neff, Asso. Professor of Public Policy, Uni of Sydney, ‘The Emotion of Shark Attacks’. Dr. Chris Pepin-Neff is an Associate Professor of Public Policy at the University of Sydney in the Discipline of Government and International Relations, specializing in emotional public policymaking, LGBTQ politics, and the “politics of shark attacks”. They authored Flaws: Shark Bites and Emotional Public Policymaking and are known for research on reducing public fear of sharks. https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-030-10976-9 This book examines the policymaking process following highly emotional events. It focuses on the politics of shark “attacks” by looking at policy responses to tragic shark bites in Florida, Australia, and South Africa. The book reviews these cases by identifying the flaws in the human-shark relationship, including the way sharks are portrayed as the enemy, the way shark bites are seen as intentional, and how policy responses appear to be based on public safety. Flaws identifies politicians as the true sharks of this story for their manipulation of tragic circumstances to protect their own interests. It argues that shark bites are ungovernable accidents of nature, and that we are “in the way, not on the menu.” https://www.abc.net.au/religion/chris-pepin-neff-sharkscaping-jaws-moral-panic-sharks/105471390     https://www.facebook.com/Sunrise/videos/1005377682658008/ The post Sat, 24th, Jan, 2026: Dr. Chris Pepin-Neff, Asso. Professor of Public Policy, Uni of Sydney, ‘The Emotion of Shark Attacks’. appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Nevena and Macca are joined live on air by Melissa Coade, Editor – The Mandarin (Sister Publication Crikey); Latest Machinations in Canberra, The Coalition split and so much more. Melissa Coade is The Mandarin’s news editor based in Canberra’s parliamentary press gallery. She has had various government, communications and legal roles, and has written for the Law Society of NSW journal (LSJ) and Lawyers Weekly. The post Sat, 24th, Jan, 2026: Melissa Coade, Editor – The Mandarin (Sister Publication Crikey); Latest Machinations in Canberra appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Nevena and Macca are joined live in the studio by Rachel Westaway, Lib Prahran, Shadow Asst Min Small, Business + Hosp. Reinvigorating destination Melbourne, Midsumma Carnival, Federal Coalition Situation Before representing Prahran in State Parliament, Rachel Westaway, had a distinguished career within corporate, industry and public service roles. This included as a senior Commonwealth Tribunal member in migration, child support and social security matters and as Victorian Assistant Commissioner for Freedom of Information. Rachel has run her own business and is also a qualified teacher. A previous head of marketing at The Age Newspaper, New Idea magazine and SBS, an early career highlight was her creating the giant Caramello Koala working at Cadbury. Rachel has raised three children with all attending local schools and has lived in the local area for over 20 years. Her family has long been engaged in our great community, including with the Prahran Junior Football Club and Toorak Prahran Cricket Club along with our dynamic local arts sector. Rachel is a strident supporter of our diverse community, from our local businesses, to our dynamic fashion, health and medical science, hospitality and creative sectors. Rachel was born in Melbourne and comes from Thai Chinese heritage and is the former President of the Thai Australian Chamber, which encouraged trade and positive relationships between Australia and Thailand. The post Sat, 24th, Jan, 2026: Rachel Westaway, Lib Prahran, Shadow Asst Min Small, Business + Hosp. Reinvigorating destination Melbourne, Midsumma Carnival, Federal Coalition Situation appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

First guest this week is show regular and Joy supporter, Aiv Puglielli, Member, Victorian Legislative Council (Victorian Greens), who was live in the studio with Macca and Nevena. Aiv Puglielli is a member of the Victorian Legislative Council representing North-East Metropolitan Region for the Victorian Greens. With a background in the arts as a composer and producer, Aiv brings a creative lens to politics and is an advocate for climate action, housing justice and community-led solutions. Aiv has worked across grassroots campaigns and in parliament since 2022, focusing on progressive policies that protect the environment while supporting workers and local communities. Aiv discussed New addition to his family (adopted Great Dane Hildegard) and Midsumma The post Sat, 24th, Jan, 2026: Aiv Puglielli, MP Greens, Nth Eastern Metro, Midsumma, Politics Update appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Macca and Nevena are in the hosting seats this week as they discuss the news, views and reviews of the week that was and what’s coming up on this week’s programme. The post Saturday, 24th, January, 2026: Weekly Wrap Up with Nevena and Macca appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Paul and Macca are joined live on air, by Matthew Mitcham OAM OLY is a retired, highly decorated Australian diver, and now a thriving as an author, speaker, MC, and cabaret performer, advocating for mental health and LGBTQIA+ inclusion. Matt’s famous for winning Olympic gold in the 10m platform at Beijing 2008 with the highest-ever dive score and for being the first openly gay Olympic champion. Beyond diving, he’s a successful cabaret performer, author, speaker, and advocate for mental health and LGBTQIA+ issues, having transitioned from a trampolinist background to achieve diving’s “golden trifecta” (Olympics, World Cup, Commonwealth Games). Matt is starring in an exciting new production of Afterglow, for the Midsumma festival. S. Asher Gelman international hit play AFTERGLOW is heading to Melbourne for its highly anticipated Australian premiere! When Josh and Alex, a married couple in an open relationship, invite Darius to share their bed for a night, a new and intimate connection is ignited. As all three men come to terms with their individual definitions of love, loyalty, and trust, relationships are challenged and futures are shaken. A raw, funny, and sensual exploration of polyamory, commitment, and modern love. The stellar cast of three comprises Julian Curtis (Gaslight, Cock, Dance Academy), gold medal winning Olympic diver Matthew Mitcham (Strangers in Between, Jock Night, The Pool) and Matthew Predny (Titanique, Avenue Q, Kinky Boots). After its critical success Off-Broadway and productions around the globe, Afterglow now brings its modern, intimate exploration of desire, honesty, and connection to Melbourne audiences! The post Sat, 17th Jan 2026: Matthew Mitcham, OAM OLY, Retired Australian Diver, Afterglow, Chapel off Chapel, Midsumma appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Macca and Paul are joined live on air by Frances Atkinson, freelance writer, former journalist/deputy editor The Age newspaper (GreenGuide, Arts), columnist (Under Age, The Sunday Age) avid reader, freelance book reviewer who lives in Melbourne, Australia. Frances has a special interest in Children’s Literature (post-grad-cert Child.Lit Deakin University); her reviews/interviews have been published in The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, UpperCase Magazine, The Courier Mail, The Brisbane Times, The Canberra Times and Illawarra Mercury.   Frances discusses her latest reviews and what’s she been reading over the summer. The post Sat, 17th Jan 2026: Frances Atkinson – Freelance Writer, Book Reviewer, Critic & Cultural Commentator; ‘Summer Reads’ appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

.Paul and Macca talk to Dean Narramore, Senior Meteorologist, Bureau of Meteorology as they discuss the extreme weather across Australia at the moment, including floods and rains in Queensland and bushfires in regional Victoria. The post Sat, 17th, Jan, 2026: Dean Narramore, Senior Meteorologist BOM, Extreme Weather Across Australia appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Macca and Paul are joined live on air by Thorne Harbour Health, interim CEO, Kent Burgess, as they discuss THH Midsumma events; Long acting injectable PrEP; support for Equality Australia’s call for our inclusion in anti-vilification reform.   The post Sat, 17th, Jan, 2026: Kent Burgess – Interim CEO, Thorne Harbour Health, Midsumma Events appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Macca and Paul talk to Dr Sarah Mansfield, Dep Leader Vic Greens, MLC Western VIC, about major planning reform to fundamentally change affordable housing in VIC + how VIC dealt with anti-vilification laws. Prior to entering Parliament, Sarah worked as a general practitioner. She has experience working with people experiencing homelessness and in aged care, and she served as a councillor at the City of Greater Geelong from 2017 until she was elected to state parliament. As a GP, she could see that the things that have the biggest impact on people’s health and wellbeing are our social and physical environment. They aren’t things that can be addressed in a clinic, they require systemic change by government. She sought to do this through her role as a councillor, but over the years she became increasingly frustrated, seeing her region being left behind by state governments. There was only so much that could be achieved at local government level on issues critical for our health and wellbeing, like improved public transport, affordable housing, access to healthcare and essential services, and action on the climate crisis. These issues are what prompted her to run for Parliament. The post Sat, 17th, Jan, 2026: Dr Sarah Mansfield, Dep Leader Vic Greens, MLC Western VIC, How Vic has dealt with Anti-Vilification Laws appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Paul and Macca talk to Heather Corkhill – Legal Dir, Equality Aust: Shortcomings of New Hate Speech Laws Heather Corkhill is a dedicated human rights and anti-discrimination law and policy specialist. With combined qualifications and experience in law, mediation and film production, Heather is committed to promoting equity, diversity, and human rights for LGBTIQ+ Australians, addressing systemic issues through practical and innovative solutions. The post Sat, 17th, Jan 2026: Heather Corkhill – Legal Dir, Equality Aust: Shortcomings of New Hate Speech Laws appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Paul and Macca are joined live on air by Charlie Lewis, Reporter at Large, Crikey , as they discuss the cancellation of Adelaide Writers Festival, New Hate Speech Laws and Kevin Rudd stepping down from US Ambassadorship. Charlie Lewis is Crikey’s reporter-at-large, focusing on politics, culture, history and the US. Got a tip? Contact him securely on Signal @clewis.25. He was Crikey’s Tips and Murmurs editor between 2020 and 2025. He has previously worked across government and unions and was a researcher on RN’s Daily Planet. He currently co-hosts Spin Cycle on Triple R radio. The post Sat, 17th Jan, 2026: Charlie Lewis, Reporter at Large, Crikey, Cancellation Adelaide Writers’ Festival, Kevin Rudd, Hate Speech appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

The week that was and what’s coming up in this week’s programme with Macca and Paul Horwell. Executive Producer Kenny Hill drops by to talk about getting involved with Saturday Magazine The post Sat, 17th Jan 2026: Weekly Wrap Up with Macca and Paul appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Nevena and Macca are joined in the studio by Karen Bryant, CEO of Midsumma @midsumma as she updates us on the festival, Pride March in Melbourne, festival highlights, as well as what else happening for the festival in 2026. The post Sat, 10th, Jan, 2026: Karen Bryant, CEO of Midsumma, What’s Happening in 2026? appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Nevena and Macca are joined live on air by Bruce Wolpe-Snr Fellow US Study Centre, Donald Trump takes Venezuela – is Colombia next? Why does he want Greenland so much and what is this doing to world order? https://www.ussc.edu.au/trump-takes-out-maduro-but-can-the-democrats-take-out-trump “Deposing Maduro is one thing. But Trump’s assertion throughout his press conference on the attack that the United States would be running Venezuela, and that the United States would take over Venezuela’s oil industry to benefit the United States, was another. Was Trump going back to Bush-Obama nation-building and the forever wars he decried? While there are Trump MAGA isolationists not happy with this adventure, the clear military success of the mission has subdued their voices – for now. Bruce Wolpe is a Senior Fellow (non-resident) at the United States Studies Centre. Bruce is a regular contributor on US politics across media platforms in Australia. In recent years, Bruce has worked with the Democrats in Congress during President Barack Obama’s first term, and on the staff of Prime Minister Julia Gillard. He has also served as the former PM’s chief of staff. Bruce is author of Trump’s Australia, an examination of Donald Trump’s possible return to the presidency and the issues presented to Australia (Allen & Unwin, 2023), The Committee, a study of President Obama’s legislative agenda in Congress (University of Michigan Press, 2018, 2d Edition September 2021) and Lobbying Congress: How The System Works (Congressional Quarterly Books, 1990, 1996).   Trump’s framing opened another front: between the president and the Democrats in Congress. But just like so many other times over the last year, the Democrats have less impact when they fire in multiple directions” The post Sat, 10th, Jan, 2026: Bruce Wolpe-Snr Fellow US Study Centre, Donald Trump takes Venezuela – is Colombia next? appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Luke Dennehy, Public relations, Tennis Australia, joins Nevena, Macca and as they discuss the Pride Slam, Australian Open and so much more. Luke Dennehy is an Australian freelance journalist, media, and PR professional known for his work in entertainment and media, including contributions to Melbourne’s JOY 94.9 radio station and their “Saturday Magazine” show, often discussing media, public relations, and events like the Australian Open, demonstrating strong connections in Australian media, sports, and entertainment.   The post Sat, 10th, Jan, 2026: Luke Dennehy, Public relations, Tennis Australia, Australian Open, Pride Slam appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Macca and Nevena are joined live in the studio as he discusses; his new role as Mayor of the City of Port Phillip; what’s on the agenda for 2026, Pride March, Jet Ski Advocacy and so much more. Alex brings extensive experience from both the private and not-for-profit sectors. He founded and ran a consulting business for nearly a decade before transitioning into strategic management roles within the not-for-profit sector. Alex is also a lecturer in postgraduate studies teaching Business Strategy, Marketing and Data Analytics. His leadership journey began as one of Victoria’s youngest politically independent Mayors. He previously served on Maroondah City Council (2005 to 2012) and as Mayor in 2010, where he helped transform Ringwood into a dynamic urban centre. He will be drawing on this experience to help Fishermans Bend fulfil its potential as Australia’s largest urban renewal precinct. Alex has a keen interest in the arts. He enjoys exploring local art galleries or watching a theatre performance delivered by local theatre companies. The post Sat, 10th, Jan, 2026: Alex Makin, Mayor – City of Port Phillip, What’s Coming Up in 2026 appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Macca and Nev are joined live on air, calling in directly from Kyneton, Josh Burns, ALP Member for McNamara; Royal Commission into Antisemitism and what is on the agenda in 2026 in Federal Parliament. The post Sat, 10th, Jan, 2026: Josh Burns, ALP Member for McNamara; Royal Commission into Antisemitism & The Year Ahead In Politics appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Nevena and Macca are back in the hosting seats and back for 2026! Join Nevena and Macca as they discuss the news of the week that was. The Australian Open. Latest news from America and Trump and so much more Nevena also discusses with Macca why she loves the Australian Open     The post Saturday, 10th, Jan, 2026: Weekly Wrap Up With Nevena and Macca; Why Nev Loves the Oz Open! appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Paul and Macca are joined live on-air by Aiv Puglielli – MP Greens, Nth Eastern Metro Aiv Puglielli is a member of the Victorian Legislative Council representing North-East Metropolitan Region for the Victorian Greens. With a background in the arts as a composer and producer, Aiv brings a creative lens to politics and is an advocate for climate action, housing justice and community-led solutions. Aiv has worked across grassroots campaigns and in parliament since 2022, focusing on progressive policies that protect the environment while supporting workers and local communities. The post 25/12/2025: Christmas Magazine: Aiv Puglielli – MP Greens, Nth Eastern Metro, Year in Review appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Macca and Paul are joined live on air by WA Liberal Sentator Dean Smith, the author of the same Equal Marriage legislation on the year that was and a tribute to Dr Katie Allen, former Liberal MP. Katrina Jane Allen was an Australian medical researcher and politician. She was a member of the House of Representatives from 2019 to 2022, representing the seat of Higgins in Victoria for the Liberal Party Former federal Liberal MP Katie Allen has died aged 59 after developing a rare form of cancer, her family has announced. Dr Allen served as member for the now-abolished seat of Higgins in Victoria from 2019 to 2022. Earlier this year, the former Liberal MP revealed she had a rare form of cancer known as cholangiocarcinoma. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-12-23/former-higgins-mp-katie-allen-died-of-cancer/106175744 The post 25/12/2025: Christmas Magazine: : WA Liberal Senator Dean Smith, Tribute to Katie Allen appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Vicki Ward, MP Eltham, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Natural Disaster Recovery, Minister for Equality; Affirming Your Identity Is Now Free In Victoria. Vicki Ward, as the Victorian Minister for Equality, was involved in the passing of an updated anti-vilification law in 2025. Key aspects of the update include making it easier for police to charge those who make hateful speech, lowering the threshold for criminal charges, and providing greater protection for the LGBTQIA+ community and people with a disability. The legislation removed a contentious defence for genuine political purposes after community concerns that it could be misused. The post 25/12/2025: Christmas Magazine: Vicki Ward, MP Eltham, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Natural Disaster Recovery, Minister for Equality; The Year That Was… appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Macca and Paul are joined live on air by 25/12/2025: Christmas Magazine: Rachel Payne, Legalise Cannabis MP, South-Eastern Metropolitan Region; Politics Update. Prior to entering Parliament, Rachel was the executive of EROS Association and held leadership, project management, policy and research roles with the Family Court of Australia and Centrelink. Rachel holds postgraduate qualifications in public policy and an undergraduate degree in sociology and politics. She is also an acclaimed performer, travelling internationally to perform as Freckles Blue in Paris and London. Rachel has extensive experience in advocacy and campaigning, including successfully campaigning to end financial discrimination against small business, gaining the support of the Ombudsman. Rachel put her hand up to run for Parliament for Legalise Cannabis Victoria as she believes it is time for law reform in this space. She is keen to initiate the conversation more broadly around the role of cannabis as the future for environmental ingenuity and creation. Rachel has a keen interest in political processes and practices, is an advocate for women’s rights and equality, inclusivity, and progressive social and community development. She is also passionate about solutions to homelessness, particularly in regard to young people, and has lived experience after instability in home-life meant Rachel was independent from 16 years of age. She is a fierce advocate for cannabis law reform and is actively involved in the LGBTIQ community. The post 25/12/2025: Christmas Magazine: Rachel Payne, Legalise Cannabis MP, South-Eastern Metropolitan Region; Politics Update. appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Macca and Paul are joined live on air by John Wintle, Joy Media’s recently re-elected Board President. https://joy.org.au/board-of-directors/ The post 25/12/2025: Christmas Magazine: John Wintle, Joy Media President appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Macca and Paul are joined live on air by Rachel Westaway, Liberal, MP Prahran.   Rachel Westaway is an Australian politician serving as the member for Prahran in the Victorian Legislative Assembly since winning the 2025 Prahran state by-election. She is a member of the Victorian Liberal Party. The post 25/12/2025: Christmas Magazine: Rachel Westaway, Liberal, MP Prahran. appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Macca and Paul are joined live on air by Josh Burns, MP Mcnamara, Georgie Purcell, Animal Justice Party, as they have a very special announcement,     Photo courtesy of Josh Burns’ Facebook Page. The post 25/12/2025: Christmas Magazine: Josh Burns, MP Mcnamara, Georgie Purcell, Animal Justice Party-SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Macca and Paul to our recently appointed CEO, Paul Scott-Williams, about the year that was and what’s down the road for JOY in 2026. The post 25/12/2025: Christmas Magazine: Paul-Scott Williams, CEO Joy Media appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Macca and Paul are back doing their annual special Christmas show with the with some of our most special and favourite guests from the Community and Politics. Joe Ball (he/him) is the Victorian Commissioner for LGBTIQA+ Communities, appointed in 2024. A proud transgender man and long-time advocate, Joe has an extensive background in social services, mental health support and LGBTQIA+ community work. Previously associated with Switchboard Victoria, he has championed initiatives such as Rainbow Door and programs supporting survivors of family violence. Joe focuses on improving access to services, reducing stigma, and ensuring Victorian LGBTIQA+ communities are included in policy decisions. Commissioner Ball (he/him) is a proud transgender man. He is a longstanding LGBTIQA+ advocate with a 25-year career in disability, housing and homelessness, and social services. Commissioner Ball is a member of the Expert Advisory Group for the Federal Government’s 10-Year LGBTIQ+ Health and Wellbeing Plan. He has previously participated in several leading social service advisory committees and boards. This includes the Victorian Family Violence peak body Safe and Equal, the Community Advisory Committee for 1800RESPECT, the Victorian LGBTIQA+ Taskforce, the Victorian Family Violence Reform Advisory Group, and the National Suicide Prevention Governance Committee. Joe was previously CEO of Switchboard Victoria for eight years, where he led the establishment of Rainbow Door, the state-wide LGBTIQA+ family violence and mental health helpline. Throughout his expansive career, Joe has drawn upon the strength and guidance of LGBTIQA+ history and most importantly, the work of activists who have paved the way, the courageous voices with lived experience and the wisdom of LGBTIQA+ elders. In 2020, Joe was honoured as an award recipient in the 50 Outstanding LGBTI+ Leaders in Australia. The post 25/12/2025: Christmas Magazine: Joe Ball, Victoria Commissioner LGBTIQ+ Communities appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Macca and Zoe are joined live in the studio by Kent Burgess, Interim CEO – Thorne Harbour Health; Update from Thorne Harbour Health, as they discuss 2025 from THH; Monkey Pox, Funding and so much more. The post Sat, 20th Dec, 2025: Kent Burgess, Interim CEO – Thorne Harbour Health; Update from Thorne Harbour Health appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Zoe and Macca are joined live on air by, Rex Patrick, “Transparency Warrior” & Former Federal Senator as they discuss the high court fight on political donations Former Senator Rex Patrick was known as the ‘Transparency Warrior’ during his time in the Federal Parliament. In addition to the normal tools used by senators to enforce transparency of Government (e.g. questions at question time, written questions on notice, Senate Estimates questioning, Inquiries and Senate orders for the production of documents) Rex also made extensive use of Freedom of Information request in the Federal domain and subsequent reviews by the Information Commissioner and the Administrative Appeals Tribunals (AAT). Rex also made numerous requests under South Australian FOI laws and sought Ombudsman reviews and South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal Reviews. Rex believes that transparency is a critical element of a representative democracy. Without transparency citizens cannot properly participate in democracy – and the likelihood of corruption or maladministration occurring increases. The post Sat, 20th Dec, 2025: Rex Patrick, “Transparency Warrior” & Former Federal Senator, High Court Fight on Political Donations appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Zoe and Macca talk to Christopher McDermott, Deputy Chair, Mental Health Victoria. Christopher is a member of the Victorian Bar and has a broad civil law practice. He specialises in employment and industrial law, anti-discrimination law, human rights and administrative law. Christopher is the Secretary of the Victorian Bar’s Indigenous Justice Committee, a member of the Industrial Bar Association Committee, the Australian Bar Association’s Diversity and Inclusion Committee, and the Victorian Bar’s LGBTIQ Working Group (which he helped to establish). The post Sat, 20th Dec, 2025: Christopher McDermott, Deputy Chair, Mental Health Victoria appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Professor Dr. Jason Ong is a distinguished academic and sexual health physician dedicated to advancing research and improving health outcomes for marginalized populations. With a rare combination of expertise as a clinician, health economist, and epidemiologist, he leverages his diverse skill set to address complex public health challenges. His research focuses on amplifying the voices of underserved communities and tackling taboo topics to promote informed decision-making and policy development. Since 2019, Professor Ong has served as an advisor to the World Health Organization (WHO), contributing to global efforts to eliminate HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as public health threats. In addition, he holds leadership roles as Vice-President of the Australasian Society for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, and Sexual Health Medicine (ASHM) and as a Board Director of Health Equity Matters, reflecting his unwavering commitment to equity in healthcare. The post Sat, 20th Dec, 2025: Prof. Dr Jason Ong, Dir. Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health appeared first on Saturday Magazine.