Christian and the team reflect on a week shaped by resilience, community, and unexpected kindness. From heartfelt moments with first responders to stories that remind us how small gestures can mean everything, this episode captures a city pulling together. Along the way, Christian shares personal highlights, surprising encounters, and a few classic cultural oddities, from hidden historic pubs to panthers that may or may not exist. There’s humour, humanity, and a genuine sense of connection as the team gets to know Sydney beyond the postcard version.

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What began as a plan to welcome Sydney with festive hams quickly shifts in response to a difficult week, with the team deciding to pass those small gifts on to first responders instead. Josh heads to Bondi to personally thank surf lifesavers and police, hearing firsthand stories of bravery, quiet resilience, and compassion in the aftermath of recent events. From silent beaches to unexpected moments of kindness, it’s a moving reminder of the people who show up when it matters most.

If this conversation brings up difficult feelings, support is available. You can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 for 24/7 confidential support, or visit lifeline.org.au.

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Today we continue getting to know Sydney, the city they’re temporarily calling home. Sharing powerful stories of kindness and resilience in the wake of tragedy, including a moving email from listener Brad about people lining up for hours to donate blood. There’s also room for lighter moments as the team dives into some of Sydney’s quirks, from the mythical panther to the ongoing seagull problem, and even a visit from a listener who claims to remember Saga World, the short lived theme park of the 90s. It’s a thoughtful mix of heart, humour, and discovery.

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In an extraordinary moment during an already devastating week, the Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony Albanese interrupted the show live to speak directly to the nation.

He shared words of unity and resolve following the anti-Semitic terrorist attack on a Hanukkah celebration, reflecting on the meaning of light over darkness and the strength of Australians coming together in grief and defiance.

The Prime Minister also provided an update on Ahmed, the Australian Hero whose bravery saved lives, and honoured other everyday heroes who ran toward danger. We spoke about national unity, community support, blood donations, candlelight vigils, public safety, gun laws, and how Australians move forward without letting fear win.

A powerful, emotional conversation about leadership, courage, and the values that define Australia at its best.

This episode contains discussion of violence, terrorism, and loss, which some listeners may find distressing. Listener discretion is advised. If this conversation brings up difficult feelings, support is available. You can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 for 24/7 confidential support, or visit lifeline.org.au.

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We’re still in our first week of breakfast in Sydney, and today is all about saying thank you and getting to know you. We share some of the incredibly kind messages and surprise gifts we’ve received so far, including a Bakewell tart and a cake that made our day. We chat with listeners about the things that matter to them, from pesky seagulls to the legendary Sydney panther, and throw around a fun idea to celebrate HSC students with a billboard.

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Day two in Sydney and Christian’s already replacing Jonesy & Amanda (don’t worry, they’ve been sent to a comfy “radio retirement home” with bingo and a nightly meat raffle). The team chats the weirdest things they’ve noticed around town, hands Sydney the keys to the billboards again, gets you texting in peak nonsense for Time Wasters, and “What’s The Year?” featuring Austin Powers and the cinematic masterpiece Big Momma’s House.

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Broadcasting live from Sydney for the very first time, today we opened the phones to hear from listeners about what Sydney means to them.

We also shared messages of support and solidarity, acknowledging how moments like this can shake a city while also bringing people together. Sydney, we’re thinking of you. We love you.

If you have a message for Sydney you’d like to share, email us at christian@christianoconnell.com.au

#SydneyStrong

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In this heartwarming episode, Christian shares a special Christmas gift with a deserving listener, Jenny, whose daughter, Ali received a life-saving kidney transplant from her mum. Christian surprises Jenny with a spa day at the Langham, showing the true meaning of kindness and generosity. They also discuss the importance of kidney health, encouraging others to ask their doctors for a kidney panel test.

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