Later, in the year 1985, Peter resigned his work from 3AK. During the year 1998, while Naylor was retired, Peter took in-charge of presenting Nine News Melbourne during the nights, every week. Hitcher celebrated his 10 years completion as a weeknight bulletin presenter in the year 2008. Hitchener has been a significant part of Nine News since the year 1998.

Melbourne also hosted the 3AW, which was a breakfast show. He worked for 3AK for about 6 years serving as news telecaster and is also preparing to be replaced for Brian Naylor who presented news for weeknight. In 1998, Naylor was substituted by Hitchener for Nine News for Melbourne branch. Hitchener had a long work relationship with Nine News from then, he served as news caster for weeknight news for period of 10 years. In this tenure, he earned more respect and recognition.

With great time in Nine News, he signed contract of 3 more years serving and creating awareness with his news telecast. At the start of 2013, Hitchener celebrated completion of 40 years of his service to news media industry. On this occasion, he had a great time with News Nine, with his colleague appreciating his dedication and his quality work following a great mouth-watering dinner.

After completion of three year contract, he signed a new contract of 5 years with News Nine for Melbourne branch. Hitchener was awarded a chivalry award in 2017 “Order of Australia” for his great service to television and radio news media and community. This award is considered a chivalry award given to a personality, who has given service to his society, which is commendable.