A regional Australian radio executive has been stood down after an incident at the Australian Audio Awards in Sydney, where he allegedly made inappropriate physical contact with a colleague on stage in front of a live audience.

Guy Ashford, the manager of Newcastle-based radio station 2HD, was present at the Carriageworks venue during the awards ceremony when he embraced presenter Cheralyn Darcey, who works at the station, after she received an award for Best Newcomer On-Air in a medium market category.

According to accounts from attendees and reports, what began as a congratulatory hug escalated into inappropriate behaviour when Ashford allegedly touched Darcey in a manner that prompted visible shock from the audience.The moment caused discomfort among those present, with some attendees later criticising the incident as unacceptable.The reaction in the room was described as one of audible surprise, and comments from witnesses were later shared with media outlets.Following the event, Super Radio Network, which owns 2HD and other stations, confirmed that Ashford had been suspended from his role.

The company’s managing director stated that an apology had been issued to Cheralyn Darcey and her husband, and that further internal discussions would take place regarding the matter.

Darcey later shared her award moment on social media, focusing on her achievement and thanking listeners and colleagues, without publicly referencing the incident.

The case has drawn attention within the Australian broadcasting industry, highlighting concerns around workplace conduct and professional boundaries in public settings.The organisation has not indicated a timeline for any further disciplinary outcome, but confirmed that the matter is being investigated internally.