In a dramatic move that defined Australian radio, Brendan 'Jonesy' Jones once put his entire career on the line for his co-host, Amanda Keller. This high-stakes gamble, revealed in their new book, Pump Up The Jam, cemented a partnership that has captivated Sydney's airwaves for two decades.
The High-Stakes Gamble
Back in 2004, the landscape at Gold FM—then known as WSFM—was bleak. The station's breakfast show was languishing at the bottom of the ratings, coming fifth in a five-station race. With his former co-host, Kayley Harris, having departed, Jonesy feared for his own job. "I thought, 'they’re going to get rid of me!'" he recalled.
Determined to turn the tide, the 57-year-old host made a bold proposition to station management. He urged them to hire Amanda Keller, with whom he had previously worked at Triple J. So confident was he in their chemistry, that Jonesy guaranteed the show would reach number one. He even staked his own employment on this success, insisting management could fire him without paying out his already-signed three-year contract if they failed to top the charts within a year.
A Partnership Forged in Success
"All I wanted to do was work a breakfast show with her and I knew it would work," Jonesy stated. His incredible risk paid off spectacularly. The radio duo secured the number one spot on the Sydney breakfast show charts in just nine months, far exceeding expectations and silencing any doubters.
This victory marked the beginning of an extraordinarily fruitful radio partnership that has now spanned twenty years. To celebrate this milestone, the pair released their book, Pump Up The Jam, chronicling their journey and the behind-the-scenes moments that have endeared them to listeners.
Navigating a New Chapter
Despite their longstanding success, the iconic duo recently addressed significant changes to their schedule. In August, reports surfaced that Jonesy and Amanda were being moved from their cherished Sydney breakfast slot to make way for Melbourne star Christian O'Connell.
The hosts confirmed the news on their FM show, announcing they had re-signed with the station but would be transitioning to the Gold 101.7 drive slot in 2026. Amanda Keller assured their loyal audience, "We've spent 20 years with you guys. And this is the thing. We're going to drag you kicking and screaming with us to drive."
She emphasised their excitement for the new chapter, adding, "As long as you guys come with us and listen to us in drive, all is right with the world."
Listener reaction to the announcement was mixed, reflecting the deep connection the pair has forged with their audience. While some lamented the end of an era for their morning routine, others pledged to follow the duo to their new time slot, proving the enduring strength of a partnership that began with one man betting everything on his friend.
