Media Release
Wednesday 24 March 2010
AN ENCORE FOR OVATION
Australia’s leading arts and entertainment channel OVATION, has announced that it is to become a
premium stand-alone channel on FOXTEL and AUSTAR from 1 June 2010.
It will join the FOXTEL satellite platform as an independent Access Seeker and will become the first non-
sports channel to make use of FOXTEL’s Special Access Undertaking approved by the ACCC in 2005.
It will also be the first and only general entertainment channel to be available this way. At present, Setanta
Sports is the only other stand-alone channel available on the FOXTEL platform.
OVATION has also reached a commercial arrangement with AUSTAR, which will see OVATION added to
AUSTAR’s lineup as a stand-alone channel available to any customer who takes AUSTAR’s Starter Pack.
Late last year FOXTEL and AUSTAR announced that they were not renewing previous agreements with
OVATION and that the channel would be removed from existing packages on 31 March. OVATION received
overwhelming support from its viewers, asking that OVATION stay on air.
When the channel recommences in June, it will offer its arts-loving audience a raft of new and
advertisement-free programmes specifically picked for its discerning viewers, as well as fantastic special
offers, discounts to concerts, events, DVDs and more.
Widely recognised for being instrumental in the phenomenal success of Andre Rieu in Australia, OVATION
has tapped into the cravings of its 40-plus demographic for classical-crossover entertainment. Over its 13
year history, OVATION has become a well-loved and trusted brand.
“We have decided to remain in FOXTEL and AUSTAR lounge rooms,“ says Gerry Travers, Managing Director
of OVATION. “Our viewers are passionate about the channel and have told us they want OVATION to
continue”.
Ita Buttrose, who has been a presenter of Ita’s Broadway on OVATION, has become an ambassador for the
channel and has recently appeared on the channel advising viewers on how to subscribe to OVATION.
"I am delighted that OVATION will be back on air in June this year and I have already subscribed," she said.
"OVATION represents quality viewing for an important group of Australians. Over the years, it has given
viewers wonderful entertainment and much pleasure and now, as a premium stand-alone channel, will be
able to continue doing so in the future.”
Ita will return to the channel in June, hosting Ita’s Musical Theatre on Saturday nights.
Existing FOXTEL customers will be able to subscribe to OVATION directly, by calling 1300 682 846.
Existing AUSTAR customers can subscribe through AUSTAR by calling 132 432.
<<ends>>
For more information: Jackie Gent 02 8879 7014; email jgent@ovationchannel.com
About OVATION
Ovation Management Pty Ltd is a part of Independent Entertainment Pty Ltd, which is an integrated media
group working in subscription television, DVD & film distribution, licensing and events. The Ovation Channel
was founded in 1997 and operated by Singtel Optus. In mid-2006, Ovation Management secured the
managements rights to the channel. The Ovation Channel is currently expanding its online and digital
opportunities in order to provide its unique audience with new and relevant media.
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