Crocmedia named Optus Stadium partner

Melbourne-based Crocmedia, which is merging with a listed company backed by Perth investment group Viburnum Funds, has been announced as the radio partner of Optus Stadium for the next five years.

Under the deal Crocmedia, run by media personality Craig Hutchison, will provide coverage for a range of events at the stadium, including AFL matches.

Crocmedia said the deal includes premium hospitality and content share opportunities for both businesses.

Crocmedia commercial director WA Paige Wright said the company was excited about the new partnership.

“The 60,000-seat venue is set to become the centre of sport in the State, so it made sense for us to be a part of bringing this world-class Stadium to life” she said.

“We’re passionate about producing West Australian content for West Australians and with our signing as an official partner of the new Optus Stadium, we are thrilled to play an even greater role in this next era of sport in the state.”

Optus Stadium chief executive Mike McKenna welcomed Crocmedia.

“We welcome Crocmedia as an official partner of Optus Stadium,” Mr McKenna said

“The team has a proven record of delivering quality content for sports fans and we look forward to working with them to share Optus Stadium experiences with fans via our digital platforms.”

Earlier this week, Crocmedia announced plans to merge with Pacific Star Network, which owns Melbourne radio station SEN.

Viburnum is currently a 19.5 per cent shareholder in PSN, and has committed to invest $8.2 million in the company ahead of the merger.

Following the merger Viburnum will have a 23.1 per cent stake in the company, while Mr Hutchison will have a 24.4 per cent holding.

Crocmedia secured a six-year broadcasting deal with the AFL in 2016 for exclusive commercial regional radio rights from 2017 to 2022 and has the right to broadcast two AFL games per weekend in the key metropolitan markets.

The media company also secured a commercial radio deal with Football Federation Australia in 2017.