What's New June 6, 2022

Australian radio icon Peter Harvie passes away

Co-founder of Clemenger Harvie and long time chairman of Austereo, Peter Harvie, has passed away.

Inducted into the Commercial Radio Hall of Fame in 2014, Peter Harvie played a major role in the radio industry and the development of rising stars.

A mentor to Kyle Sandilands, Andy Lee and more, Peter’s passing is sending ripples through the industry.

Kyle told radioinfo, “Peter Harvie was a true boss… in every sense of the word. He saved me more than once in my career and above all allowed creative people to shine. Will be missed, but his teachings and guidance will live on.”

Posting on Instagram, Andy Lee shared his heartfelt thoughts.

“Just heard of the passing of one of the great humans I have ever come to know. He protected Hamish and I as we made our way into the industry and was a great ear for all my questions along the ride,” said Andy.

“Good mentors are hard to find and I hope you knew how much I appreciated your tidbits of wisdom. Chairman Harvie, you’ll be sorely missed. You’ve been on my wall for the last ten years and will stay there.”

In his early years, Peter worked his way up in Melbourne’s Clemenger before becoming Managing Director of the newly formed Clemenger Harvie in 1974.

In 1993, Peter moved on to become Managing Director of Triple M before finding himself the Executive Chairman of Austereo 10 years later.

He then led the merger of Austereo and Southern Cross Broadcasting to create the now Southern Cross Austereo.

Speaking about the loss of Peter, SCA CEO Grant Blackley said, “Peter was an absolute legend in the media industry.”

“He was a tireless advocate for the media sector and importantly SCA over many years. Peter’s radio career spanned almost 25 years, starting with leading Triple M, to becoming Executive Chairman of Austereo Group and leading the merger between Austereo and Southern Cross Broadcasting to become SCA. He was a very worthy inductee into the Radio Hall of Fame.”

“He was never shy but always respectful and led every discussion in a purposeful and impassioned manner. He built and managed so many businesses and initiatives it is hard to name them all. He was a genuine lover of creativity and encouraged and supported content teams in the pursuit of building great shows and exceptional talent. His leadership style was unique and he has left an enormously positive and profound legacy for so many in our industry.”

“We will miss Peter but know he led a life full of purpose, passion and great fulfilment.”