WIN TV news presenter Kerryn Johnston opts for more family time

The WIN Network journalist announced on Wednesday she had resigned, driven by the desire to spend more time with her family.

But she says her career in the media is far from over.

“It was a big decision … but my eldest started high school last year and my youngest starts next year and I really want to be more available to them of an afternoon and evening,’’ Johnston said. ‘’I’m excited to be home for dinner for the first time in 25 years.’’

Johnston, well known for her charitable work particularly as an advocate for autism awareness, said she plans to take a short break.

‘’I am not great at sitting on my hands, so we’ll see how that goes ... but will definitely return to the media.”

She has loved the energy of working in news media and has ‘’loved doing my job for the past 25 years, but now is the time for change’’. 

Presenting news in the Illawarra and Canberra had given her an interesting perspective on the two regions. 

‘’There have been many highlights including having the opportunity to work on on-air specials like Convoy and Childhood Cancer,’’ she said. ‘’Both were life changing.’’

The mother-of-two joined the WIN team in 2001 after a lengthy stint with rival broadcaster Prime.

Her departure comes as WIN undergoes major structural and staffing changes. 

The Wollongong headquarters will soon produce five half-hour news bulletins for regional Victoria. Ballarat newsreader Bruce Roberts has relocated to Wollongong,where he will present bulletins for Victorian towns.

WIN Network CEO Andrew Lancaster said Kerryn’s commitment and professionalism has been of the highest standard.

“Kerryn has been a valuable contributor to the growth of WIN News over nearly 15 years,’’ he said. ‘’She has given young women a role model in broadcasting with her professional approach.’’

Geoff Phillips will continue to present news, with Amy Duggan on sport.