Big news, folks: Mel Cranenburgh has decided to finish up her excellent program Backstory, after joining the Wednesday line-up four years ago! We’ve been so lucky to have Mel bring us so many incredible conversations with authors from here and around the world during this time. Her passion and expertise for writing and her warmth and insight on mic have been a massive joy and asset for the station.

Mel’s contribution extends far beyond the four years she has been hosting Backstory. Mel first jumped on air at Triple R back in 2007 with her summer show and podcast Along For The Ride. She was also a long-term segment guest with her Big Issue editor’s hat on for Spoke (the program formerly hosted by Michelle Bennett) and she also contributed to The Grapevine for a period of time, by talking to authors about their influences.

Thanks so much, Mel! You will also be missed. That said, I'm sure we'll hear you pop up on the Triple R airwaves again soon enough!

Mel will finish up Backstory on Wednesday 30 March. Tune in from midday for a very special finale.

In the meantime, enjoy a few pics of Mel from over the past few years.

Mel with Melanie Cheng in 2018.

A Big Issue Fiction Edition celebration on Backstory in 2019.

Mel with Melina Marchetta in 2019.

Mel at Radiothon 2021!

Mel's Live In Conversation with Omar Sakr in 2022.