Celebrating the life and career of journalist and presenter Jan Deane (70)

The Australian broadcasting community is in mourning following the loss of an industry icon.

Journalist and presenter Jan Deane passed away at the age of 70.

Jan Deane's voice was a familiar comfort and a staple in many Victorian homes.

Her passing marked the end of an era for the entertainment and radio industry in the state.


Jan Deane's career spanned over two decades, making her an influential figure in Australian broadcasting.

She began her journey as a host at the regional radio station 3SR.

She later on hopped into the ABC, where she dedicated 20 years as a journalist and newsreader.

Her voice graced Shepparton, Bendigo, Ballarat, and Melbourne airwaves—making her an established persona for ABC's news coverage in these areas.


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Jan Deane has been an established figure in the radio industry as a news presenter. Image Credit: Facebook/ABC Goulburn Murray


Victorian Premier Jacinta Allen broke the news about Ms Deane's passing on social media.

'You may not know her name, but so many of us in regional Victoria would instantly recognize the voice of Jan Deane,' Premier Allan shared.

'Jan was an incredible journalist—a Shepparton girl who I first met when she was reading the news for Bendigo's 3BO.'

'My heart goes out to her family, friends and colleagues. Thank you, Jan, for being such a strong voice for country communities,' Premier Allan concluded.


Colleagues and listeners shared their heartfelt memories and condolences to Ms Deane.

Victorian Country Hour presenter and former colleague Warwick Long remembered Jan for her 'beautiful singing voice, a sly sense of humour and an eye for detail'.

'My heart aches today. We lost a great one who sat next to me in ABC Shepparton for years,' Mr Long wrote in a tribute.

Several listeners also shared their tributes to the late presenter.

'The dedication and experience that Jan possesses cannot be replaced easily,' one listener wrote.

'You have enriched the lives of an immeasurable amount of people over the years.'


Jan Deane's love for her hometown was evident throughout her career.

After a brief stint in Melbourne, she continued working with the ABC Shepparton.

She also contributed as a regular newspaper columnist and book reviewer for the Shepparton News.

Christine Anderson, McPherson Media Group's Director of Content and Audience, remembered Jan for her 'passion for Shepparton and her deep love for words'.

After leaving ABC in 2018, fans across social media shared their appreciation for Ms Deane and celebrated her impact.

'The end of an era,' one fan wrote.

'ABC Goulburn Valley will not be the same,' another expressed.


Jan Deane's contributions to the community extended beyond journalism.

Prior to entering the radio industry, Ms Deane starred in amateur theatre shows, landing her an opportunity to work on GMV 6.

Steve Woods, 3SR's Manager, compared Ms Deane's voice to that of Barbra Streisand as she showed her singing skills on the radio.

She also shone in local productions as she took on lead roles in her local theatre.

She played Maria in The Sound of Music and Mary in Jesus Christ Superstar.

These performances allowed her to connect with the community in a different but equally meaningful way.

The cause of Jan Deane's death has not been made public, but her legacy is evident.

She was a voice for the people, a champion for regional storytelling, and an influential figure in broadcasting.
Key Takeaways

  • Former ABC radio presenter and journalist Jan Deane passed away at the age of 70.
  • Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan and colleagues paid tribute to Jan's strong voice for their community and her dedication to journalism.
  • Jan Deane established her career after working at 3SR and ABC. She also loved theatre and singing for local productions.
  • Jan Deane's passion for her hometown, Shepparton, and her contributions to its local media and entertainment industry became a part of her enduring legacy.
Let's honour a woman who dedicated her life to informing, entertaining, and connecting with her community through her talents and passion.

May she rest in peace.
 
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