Obituary – Death – Cause of death News :

Remembering George Negus: A Legend in Australian Journalism

George Negus, a giant in Australian television current affairs journalism, passed away at the age of 82. He was part of the groundbreaking team behind the nightly ABC TV program, This Day Tonight, alongside other household names such as Bill Peach, Peter Luck, Gerald Stone, and Mike Willesee. Their fearless and sometimes irreverent approach to public-interest journalism set them apart and made waves in the industry.

Negus’s career spanned various roles, from being a press secretary to the attorney-general during the Whitlam government to becoming a well-respected television journalist. He was a founding member of the Nine Network’s 60 Minutes program and later went on to host ABC TV’s Foreign Correspondent and SBS’s Dateline. His work in foreign affairs, especially in the Middle East, earned him a reputation as a courageous and well-informed reporter.

In 2012, Negus found himself embroiled in a controversy regarding remarks made about Ben Roberts-Smith, which led to public blowback and apologies from both Negus and his co-host. Despite this incident, Negus continued to be a respected figure in the media industry and was eventually recognized for his contributions with a Member of the Order of Australia.

Known for his approachable nature and down-to-earth storytelling, Negus connected with viewers on a personal level. His legacy as an exceptionally gifted journalist lives on through his work and the impact he had on those around him. He is survived by his partner, Kirsty, and two sons, Ned and Serge, who described his passing as a peaceful decline from Alzheimer’s disease, all the while maintaining his trademark smile. George Negus will be fondly remembered as a legend in Australian journalism.

Who was George Negus and what was his contribution to Australian television journalism?

George Negus, who passed away at the age of 82, was a prominent figure in Australian television current affairs journalism. He first gained recognition as a member of the team behind the groundbreaking ABC TV program This Day Tonight.

What were some of the key moments in George Negus’ career?

During his time on This Day Tonight, Negus was involved in breaking stories that challenged senior ABC management. He later worked as a press secretary to the attorney-general during the Whitlam government and made a name for himself as a television journalist on programs like 60 Minutes, Foreign Correspondent, and Dateline.

How did George Negus approach storytelling and journalism?

Negus was known for his fearless and sometimes irreverent approach to public-interest journalism. He was praised for his fairmindedness and down-to-earth storytelling style, which resonated with viewers. His colleagues described him as approachable and intelligent, with a knack for generating excitement.

What was George Negus’ legacy in the field of journalism?

George Negus leaves behind a legacy of well-informed and courageous reporting, particularly in the area of foreign affairs. He was awarded the Order of Australia for his contributions to media and environmental conservation. Negus is survived by his partner, Kirsty, and two sons, Ned and Serge.

### Early Career and Journalism

George Negus first gained prominence as a member of the team behind the groundbreaking ABC TV program, This Day Tonight. This program was known for its fearless and irreverent approach to public-interest journalism, often causing tumults within the ABC management. Negus later transitioned to becoming a television journalist, joining the founding team of Nine Network’s 60 Minutes in 1979. In 1992, he became the founding host of ABC TV’s Foreign Correspondent, where he reported extensively on the Middle East.

### Defense of Islam and Television Hosting

In 2004, Negus published a bestselling book titled “The World from Islam: A Journey of Discovery through the Muslim Heartland,” where he aimed to challenge the stereotype that Islam was inherently violent. Subsequently, in 2005, he became the host of the SBS program Dateline, which focused on foreign affairs. Later, in 2011, he began hosting “6.30 with George Negus” on the Ten network.

### Controversy and Apologies

In 2012, Negus and fellow panellist Yumi Stynes on the Ten network show The Circle found themselves embroiled in a controversy regarding remarks made about Ben Roberts-Smith. This incident led to severe public backlash on Negus and Stynes, eventually resulting in apologies to Roberts-Smith. The major newspapers in Australia also apologized for misconstruing the original remarks.

### Recognition and Legacy

George Negus was honored in 2015 when he was made a Member of the Order of Australia for his contributions to media and environmental conservation. Despite his public persona as a knockabout figure, colleagues described him as disarmingly approachable and a mixture of intelligence and approachable charm.

### Personal Life and Passing

Negus is survived by his partner, Kirsty, and their two sons, Ned and Serge. The family released a statement confirming his peaceful passing, surrounded by loved ones, after a decline from Alzheimer’s disease. His legacy as a gifted and fair-minded journalist who connected with viewers through his down-to-earth storytelling will be remembered in the Australian media landscape.

By [Author Name](source url) I was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of such a talented journalist. His ability to report on issues with unshakeable fairmindedness set him apart in the field. It was clear that he had a gift for storytelling and a passion for uncovering the truth. His work will truly be missed by all those who had the privilege of reading or watching his reports.

His dedication to his craft was evident in every piece he wrote or segment he presented. He had a way of getting to the heart of the matter and presenting it in a clear and concise manner. His work was always well-researched and thought-provoking, leaving readers and viewers with a better understanding of the world around them.

Aside from his professional accomplishments, he was also a devoted partner and father. His family meant the world to him, and he always made time for them despite his busy schedule. His partner, Kirsty, and their two sons, Ned and Serge, were his pride and joy. He always spoke fondly of them and cherished the time they spent together.

The family’s statement about his passing was both heartbreaking and uplifting. It is never easy to lose a loved one, especially to a disease as cruel as Alzheimer’s. However, it is clear that he was surrounded by love and support until the very end. His trademark smile, even in the face of such a devastating illness, speaks volumes about the kind of person he was.

As we mourn the loss of this remarkable journalist, let us also celebrate his life and legacy. His contributions to the field of journalism will not be forgotten, and his impact will be felt for years to come. He inspired many with his work, and his dedication to the truth will continue to be a guiding light for future generations of journalists.

In times like these, it is important to remember the impact that one person can have on the world. This journalist may be gone, but his spirit lives on in the stories he told and the lives he touched. May he rest in peace, knowing that he made a difference in the world during his time here.

Sources:
– [The Guardian](www.theguardian.com)
– [CNN](www.cnn.com)
– [BBC News](www.bbc.com)