RIP Derryn Hinch

Legendary broadcaster Derryn Hinch – the man known as the Human Headline – has died aged 82.

A giant of television and current affairs, Hinch first established himself on 3AW, becoming a well known voice and presence in Melbourne.

His ‘That’s Life’ sign off was legendary.

A statement from the 3AW said:

“Derryn Hinch’s connection to 3AW was both foundational and multifaceted. He arrived at the station in 1979, establishing his reputation as a formidable presence during his eight-year morning program. After a decade of high-profile television and current affairs work, his return to 3AW in 2000 to host Nightline, followed by his move to the Drive program in 2003, cemented his status as a permanent fixture in the Melbourne media landscape.“

“Throughout his tenure, Hinch was never a broadcaster to stand still. Whether championing a cause, challenging authority, or navigating the intense controversies that occasionally marked his career, Hinch remained steadfast in his commitment to his craft.“

“His impact was recognised widely within the industry, culminating in his 2010 induction into the Australian Commercial Radio Hall of Fame. Listeners, even those who did not always agree with his stance, held a deep respect for his unwavering dedication and the palpable passion he brought to every issue.“

“As we reflect on his life, Derryn Hinch’s time at 3AW serves as a testament to the power of talkback radio to provoke, engage, and connect a city. He leaves behind a legacy of uncompromising, compelling broadcasting that fundamentally shaped the station he called home for so many years.”

Born in New Zealand in 1944, Hinch started out in print media, coming to Australia in 1963 to join The Sun in Sydney. Working his way up to become a foreign correspondent, he moved to the US with Fairfax and became bureau chief, living in New York for 11 years.

In 1976 he returned to Australia to become editor of the Sun.

In the late 70s, Hinch moved into radio on 3XY, then 3AW the following year, before turning to TV in 1987.

He went on to work at stations including 5DN and 3AK before returning to 3AW, on Drive, in 2003.

In 1987, 2011 and 2014 he was imprisoned or placed on house arrest for contempt of court or breaching suppression orders around the identities of alleged paedophiles and sex offenders.

In 2016 he became the oldest new person elected to the Senate with his Derryn Hinch’s Justice Party. He served as a senator for three years.

In April this year, Hinch spoke to former 3AW newsreader Tony Tardio about the mounting medical challenges he faced, sixteen years after his life-saving liver transplant.

Hinch’s passing has prompted a flood of tributes.

Longtime friend and colleague Nicky Elliott said Derryn’s hunger for information was legendary.

“What I’ll miss about Derryn is that every day he was like a kid in a toy shop. He’d charge out of the gates. He would just charge at the world! New day. New stuff. New knowledge.”

“Just that joy for life. We’ve lost one of the great old school journalists.”

Image from Derryn Hinch’s Book of Short Stories.