Scherri-Lee Biggs has been appointed as the new weather presenter for Channel Nine Melbourne, a move that has reportedly caused dissatisfaction among some colleagues. Biggs, who is based in Perth, will be replacing Livinia Nixon, a long-serving Nine veteran who departed the network after two decades. The appointment has surprised Madeline Spark, another Nine personality who was reportedly led to believe she would be promoted to the weekday weather presenter role upon Nixon's departure. Spark was allegedly assured by network executives at the Melbourne Cup that she was a strong candidate for the position. However, Biggs' decision to relocate to Melbourne is said to have placed her ahead of Spark in consideration for the role.
Insiders have expressed surprise at Spark being overlooked, noting her seven years of experience in the role, her popularity with viewers, and her on-camera presence. Spark is expected to continue in her current position at Channel Nine. Biggs, a former Miss Universe Australia (2011) and weather presenter for 9News Perth for over ten years, will begin her new role on January 18, joining Alicia Loxley and Tom Steinfort. She has been with Channel Nine for 11 years, also filling in on the Today show and appearing in various other programs. Biggs expressed her excitement about moving to Melbourne, a city with personal significance as her husband's hometown, and looks forward to being closer to family and raising their daughter. Livinia Nixon announced her departure in November, stating a desire to focus on her sons' schooling.