So, what did you think of the new Three News bulletin at 6pm last night?

I worked in TV for over a decade and the one thing I know is you never judge a live show on its first outing. Sometimes not even on its second. I felt a bit sick with nerves for the Stuff team at 5:58 last night.

We were forewarned by Warner Bros Discovery this week that the bulletin is not yet everything they want it to be – that it will take time to grow. By saying that out loud they managed expectations for themselves, the audience and the critics.

But after watching the first bulletin, I wonder whether the challenge will be more to maintain the standard that was set last night.

Visually, Three News looks different to its predecessor, but not jarringly so. The graphics are simple, the virtual reality set bold and busy, and weekend host Laura Tupou’s relaxed and competent performance made it easy to adjust. It was a pretty seamless and smooth beginning – technically things went well.

Clearly they were also keen to set the standard with their story quality - that’s what the news is all about, after all. Both 1News and Three News had gutsy exclusives up their sleeves for launch night. Three News brought out the big talent with Senior Investigative Journalist Paula Penfold presenting an investigation into a Chinese probation officer’s link to an alleged spy. Weekday newsreader Samantha Hayes made it clear she isn’t just going to sit behind an autocue, and presented a story about a reformed gang member. Both were substantial stories that felt like they were filling a gap left by the demise of shows like Sunday and Paddy Gower has Issues.

There weren’t a lot of stories – it’s only a half hour slot in the weekends – but they also covered off the news of the day, sport was lively and the weather efficient. It was a good start. If you were worried about not having another ‘real’ news option at 6, then the indications are you can rest easy. The challenge will be keeping it up.

So, good on them - a new era begins. Stuff have not had much time to pull this together, and considering the challenges it’s impressive they’re off the starting line. Now it depends on how well they impress loyal fans and keep curious ones. Best of luck to them.

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