Trevor Chappell (radio presenter)
Trevor Chappell | |
|---|---|
| Born | April 6, 1961 Western Australia, Australia |
| Occupation | Broadcaster |
| Years active | 1995–present |
| Known for | Hosting ABC's Overnights program |
Trevor Chappell (born 6 April 1961) is an Australian broadcaster affiliated with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), operating out of Melbourne.
Chappell serves as one of the two primary presenters of the nationally syndicated Overnights broadcast, which runs from 2:00 am (AEST) until 6:00 am (or 5:30 am on select stations) Monday through Thursday. The program regularly features a diverse range of guest contributors.
Early life
Chappell was born in Western Australia on 6 April 1961. Prior to relocating to Victoria at age 21, he gained experience in various industries such as mining and construction labor. Upon moving to Victoria, he pursued studies in teaching and youth work before enrolling in an acting course at the National Theatre, Melbourne. After encountering difficulties in pursuing acting, he returned to Western Australia to study broadcasting at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA).
1995–2000: Initial radio roles
His radio career commenced as a producer at Perth’s 6PR station. In 1995, Chappell moved back to Melbourne where he took on casual production work for the ABC. Subsequently, he produced content for 774 AM Melbourne along with several regional Victorian radio outlets.
2003–present: Overnights and Afternoons hosting
Chappell has been a longstanding presenter of the nationwide Overnights program airing Monday through Thursday from 2:00 am to 6:00 am AEST. The show includes a pop culture quiz encompassing topics such as television, music, cinema, and comics, encouraging lively interaction with frequent guests including Scott Goodings. During the latter portion of the broadcast, the focus shifts toward more serious adult themes featuring interviews and listener call-ins, with a majority of the audience comprising male truck drivers.
The Overnights program is streamed live via ABC’s online platform and remains accessible for seven days post-broadcast. It attracts listeners worldwide from cities like Monterrey (Mexico), Portland (Oregon), Cheung Chau (Hong Kong), Tokyo, Denver, and Vancouver.
Michael Pavlich, who served as technical operator and co-host providing hints during the quiz segment, succeeded Chappell as the permanent host of Overnights starting July 2023 when Chappell transitioned to an afternoon timeslot.
In November 2024, ABC declared Chappell would return to hosting duties on Overnights.
Personal life
Chappell is married to his wife Cath and has a son named Finn from a previous marriage.
Interests
His hobbies include surfing, golf, and spending time at the beach. Notably, he expresses a dislike for the Beatles while enjoying television programs such as Owly's School, F Troop, along with Perth children’s icons Fat Cat and Percy Penguin.
He is also an enthusiastic admirer of ABBA, especially Björn Ulvaeus, and has a particular appreciation for Lapsang Souchong tea.
ABC Local Radio Awards
! |- ! scope="row"| 2002 | Himself | Best New Talent | rowspan="4" | rowspan="4"| |- ! scope="row"| 2004 | rowspan="3"| Himself / Overnights | rowspan="3"| Networked Program of the Year |- ! scope="row"| 2005 |- ! scope="row"| 2006 |}