All-Aussie Iron Imager Battle!

Benztown announced that Brad Leask, Network Imaging Producer, NOVA Entertainment in Victoria, Australia, has been chosen as the finalist in the sixth annual Iron Imager Contest, the first and only competition of its kind that pits talented international production pros against each other for the coveted title of “World’s Best Imager.” Least (right) will face off against his fellow countryman — and your 2016 Iron Imager titleholder, “Sideshow“ Mike Andersen (left) of Triple M Imaging, Southern Cross Austereo in Sydney, Australia.

These two talented Aussies will go head-to-head in a live competition on Thursday, May 4 during the Worldwide Radio Summit at the W Hollywood Hotel. Leask and Andersen will demonstrate their world-class imaging skills by producing an original imaging piece for a format unannounced until the day of the competition. The guys will use elements from one of Benztown’s 20 production libraries, voiceover talent roster, and an original script created by the Benztown team. When the smoke finally clears, the 2017 Iron Imager will be crowned at 10:55am on Friday, May 5, in the General Session Room.

Andreas Sannemann, CEO of Benztown, said, “I’m excited to see two of the world’s best imagers fight for the belt. It will be an epic battle between a highly decorated imaging veteran known for countless awards, genius writing and creative skills and a youngster, who is really keen to win and is pushing the boundaries of what is possible technically in production these days. Let’s get ready to rumble!” Dave “Chachi” Denes, Benztown President, said, “Andy and I have always been impressed with how great radio is in Australia. It’s amongst the most creative in the world. Sidey and Brad are both instrumental in the sound of their respective station groups and we’re honored to have them participate.”