The Australian television industry has been hit with a reminder of the fragility of life, as the family of one of its most celebrated figures, George Negus, shared a heart-wrenching update on his battle with Alzheimer's disease.

The once vibrant and articulate journalist, known for his fearless reporting and distinctive style, is now facing the quiet and relentless progression of this debilitating condition.


George Negus, a name synonymous with Australian journalism and a pioneer of the industry, has been living with dementia for approximately five years.

His condition has advanced to the point where, since late 2021, he has been residing in an aged care facility in Sydney.


The 82-year-old's journey with Alzheimer's has been one of gradual withdrawal from the public life that once knew him as a household name.

As one of the original reporters on 60 Minutes when it launched in Australia, he brought the world into Australians' living rooms with his compelling storytelling and on-the-ground reporting from global hotspots.

His work not only informed but also shaped public opinion, making him a trusted and respected figure in journalism.


The impact of Alzheimer's on Negus's life was shared by his son, Ned, in a touching Father's Day tribute on social media.

‘I was hesitant to post this on LinkedIn, as it's pretty personal,’ he wrote.

Accompanied by a photo of a frail Negus, still sporting his trademark moustache, the post revealed the intimate and personal struggles of a family coming to terms with the disease's effects.

'He's now non-verbal most of the time,' Ned wrote.

‘But then I realised you're all humans, and there's always a place for sharing human realities with your professional network.'


Ned, the Chief Commercial Officer for the A-League soccer competitions, then spoke about his father's Alzheimer's diagnosis.

‘He's now nonverbal most of the time (mind-blowing for me but also any of you who know him),' he continued.

‘Today is Father's Day in Australia, and we had a walk on the beach together.‘

‘At one point, we stopped. He smiled broadly and then hugged me for quite some time.’

'It was sad, but it was uplifting to know that even when you can no longer say what you feel, you can still DO what you feel.’

‘Love you Negsy.'


The photograph was captured by Kirsty Cockburn, Ned's mother, an award-winning journalist, author, and documentary filmmaker who has been Negus's partner for nearly 40 years.

‘[Mum] is by his side most days helping him through, helping him remember (even the slightest thing) and feel,' Ned said.

‘Massive shout out to her too.’

Negus's last notable public appearance was in November 2020 at the memorial service for Gerald Stone, the inaugural executive producer of 60 Minutes.

Since then, his public life has receded as his family has prioritised his care and comfort.


The news of Negus's condition has resonated deeply within the Australian media community and among the public, many of whom grew up watching his reports.

Colleagues like Jana Wendt, who joined 60 Minutes in 1982, have expressed their support and well-wishes for Negus and his family during this challenging time.

‘In this situation, I know he's got the support of a really loving family, and that counts for a lot,’ she said

‘So obviously, we can just wish him well and certainly wish the family well.'

George Negus's contributions to journalism have left an indelible mark on the industry.


His work on 60 Minutes, Foreign Correspondent, Dateline, and various other programs informed viewers and inspired future generations of journalists.

In 2015, his service to media and conservation was recognized when he was made a Member of the Order of Australia.
How can we support families dealing with dementia and raise awareness about its impact? What role does family support play in managing dementia? Share your thoughts in the comments below.