The radio station boss who was allegedly seen groping an employee on stage during an awards ceremony has been fired. Super Radio Network's Guy Ashford has had his contract terminated, the company's chief executive Graham Mott told Mediaweek on Friday. Mr Ashford was general manager of the network's Newcastle operations, leading stations 2HD and NEW FM.
"Yes, he's gone," Mr Mott told the publication, which also reported that staff were informed via email that Mr Ashford's employment had finished and that the network was searching for a new general manager in Newcastle.
The incident occurred at the 2026 Australian Audio Awards at Sydney's Carriageworks last week. Mr Ashford rushed on stage to hug 2HD presenter Cheralyn Darcey as she was collecting a Best Newcomer award for her show The Nightline. He twirled her around and was seen grabbing her backside with his left hand, shocking the crowd.
"All right …" one of the hosts could be heard saying in a video of the moment, while another host added: "That radio spirit is still alive and well." The second host then said: "That's why we cancelled the ACRAs (Australian Commercial Radio Awards), that's why we cancelled the ACRAs."
Several attendees who witnessed the incident told Mediaweek they felt "so sorry for Cheralyn" while calling Mr Ashford "a grub." Ms Darcey has since returned to her regular 2HD show, which airs from 8pm to midnight.
