Remembering Aussie TV trailblazers Hugh Cornish (90) and Clive Robertson (78)
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The Australian television industry lost two of its trailblazing figures.
One brought television media forward in Queensland, while the other drew Sydney locals in with his unique way of reporting.
Let's take a look at their lives and honour their legacies.
TV presenter Hugh Cornish passed away peacefully at a retirement village in Brisbane. He was 90 years old.
Known as 'Queensland's first TV star', Cornish's contributions to the medium shaped the early days of television in the country.
Hugh Cornish's journey into the hearts of Queenslanders began on 16 August 1959.
He drew Brisbane locals to Channel Nine's first broadcast with his iconic introduction line—'Hello Brisbane, welcome to television.'
This moment marked the beginning of entertainment and introduced new ways of communication for Australians.
Cornish, who was first a chemist-turned-radio presenter, transitioned to television as a part of the industry's rapid progression.
However, he was not just a presenter; he was a visionary who understood the potential of television to bring stories, news, and entertainment into homes.
Later on in his career, Hugh Cornish became the general manager of Channel Nine Queensland.
His leadership brought in popular shows to the network every night—far from the then once-a-week norm.
This move demonstrated his keen insight into audience preferences and his commitment to keeping viewers engaged.
Hugh Cornish's son, Tim, fondly recalled how his father would test several programs on his children.
'He'd put on Happy Days, and I said, "That is a winner",' Tim recalled.
Cornish also hosted the variety show Brisbane Tonight in the 1960s and the 1970s talent show Stairway to the Stars.
Hugh Cornish's legacy extended beyond his on-screen presence.
He was instrumental in setting up the first telethons in Queensland—a tradition that continues to this day with the Nine Telethon.
His efforts in fundraising and community service were a testament to his belief in the power of television.
Beyond his accolades, Cornish was a family man who faced tragedies with resilience.
While he lost a son to a disability and a daughter to cancer, he remained a steadfast figure.
Cornish's friend and producer-director John Stainton described him as a 'stalwart' who managed to balance his demanding career with his family life.
Tributes from Cornish's colleagues and friends poured in as they remembered a kind and loveable person who was always willing to lend a hand.
'Every time I think of Hugh Cornish, I think, I know we had the best days in the television industry because they were pioneering days,' Former television director Garry Gibson said.
There are now calls for Cornish to be honoured with a state funeral—a fitting tribute to a man who left an indelible mark on the television and media industry.
In related news, television presenter Clive Robertson also passed away at the age of 78.
Famous for his sharp wit, distinctive delivery and approach to media, Robertson's death left a void in the Australian media landscape that would be difficult to fill.
Clive Robertson jump-started his career at the ABC back in the 1970s—a time of significant change and innovation in broadcasting.
His unique style quickly set him apart from his fellow presenters, which caught the attention of many.
Robertson then joined the Seven Network in the 1980s, where he continued to make his mark as a presenter who continued to push boundaries and challenge the industry's status quo.
Robertson's approach to broadcasting was unique at the time; he had his off-script antics during late-night news segments.
This practice earned him a cult following and paved the way for other presenters like Graham Kennedy to bring a similar style to television.
Aussie radio broadcaster Margaret Throsby paid tribute to Robertson as a 'brilliant broadcaster'.
'Eccentric, one-off, brilliant broadcaster, tease, unreconstructed, his Breakfast show on 702 Sydney was essential listening. RIP,' Throsby stated.
His morning show on 702 Sydney became a staple for listeners who enjoyed his mix of humour, insight, and occasional provocation.
Media commentator Jason Morrison regarded Robertson as one of his 'greatest mates' in the industry.
'He was funny, brilliant and remarkable. He was as everyone remembers him, right up to the end,' Morrison shared.
Clive Robertson's personal life was as vibrant as his career; he married A Country Practice star Penny Cook and was a beloved part of the Australian television community.
His legacy included hosting stints for Newsworld and the iconic Beauty and the Beast, where he played as an 'interesting presenter,' as described by 6PR's Peter Ford.
This diversity in roles allowed him to showcase his ability to engage with a wide range of topics and guests.
In his final years, Robertson bravely fought cancer privately.
His last day on air was an emotional moment that brought tears to the eyes of the Australian radio star, a testament to the deep connections he had forged throughout his career.
As we remember these two television pioneers, we encourage everyone to share any iconic moments from these two presenters. They will be remembered as innovators who shaped our media landscape today.
May they both rest in peace.
One brought television media forward in Queensland, while the other drew Sydney locals in with his unique way of reporting.
Let's take a look at their lives and honour their legacies.
TV presenter Hugh Cornish passed away peacefully at a retirement village in Brisbane. He was 90 years old.
Known as 'Queensland's first TV star', Cornish's contributions to the medium shaped the early days of television in the country.
Hugh Cornish's journey into the hearts of Queenslanders began on 16 August 1959.
Hugh Cornish during his 80th birthday celebration back in 2014. Image Credit: Redland City Bulletin
He drew Brisbane locals to Channel Nine's first broadcast with his iconic introduction line—'Hello Brisbane, welcome to television.'
This moment marked the beginning of entertainment and introduced new ways of communication for Australians.
Cornish, who was first a chemist-turned-radio presenter, transitioned to television as a part of the industry's rapid progression.
However, he was not just a presenter; he was a visionary who understood the potential of television to bring stories, news, and entertainment into homes.
Later on in his career, Hugh Cornish became the general manager of Channel Nine Queensland.
His leadership brought in popular shows to the network every night—far from the then once-a-week norm.
This move demonstrated his keen insight into audience preferences and his commitment to keeping viewers engaged.
Hugh Cornish's son, Tim, fondly recalled how his father would test several programs on his children.
'He'd put on Happy Days, and I said, "That is a winner",' Tim recalled.
Cornish also hosted the variety show Brisbane Tonight in the 1960s and the 1970s talent show Stairway to the Stars.
Hugh Cornish's legacy extended beyond his on-screen presence.
He was instrumental in setting up the first telethons in Queensland—a tradition that continues to this day with the Nine Telethon.
His efforts in fundraising and community service were a testament to his belief in the power of television.
Beyond his accolades, Cornish was a family man who faced tragedies with resilience.
While he lost a son to a disability and a daughter to cancer, he remained a steadfast figure.
Cornish's friend and producer-director John Stainton described him as a 'stalwart' who managed to balance his demanding career with his family life.
Tributes from Cornish's colleagues and friends poured in as they remembered a kind and loveable person who was always willing to lend a hand.
'Every time I think of Hugh Cornish, I think, I know we had the best days in the television industry because they were pioneering days,' Former television director Garry Gibson said.
There are now calls for Cornish to be honoured with a state funeral—a fitting tribute to a man who left an indelible mark on the television and media industry.
In related news, television presenter Clive Robertson also passed away at the age of 78.
Famous for his sharp wit, distinctive delivery and approach to media, Robertson's death left a void in the Australian media landscape that would be difficult to fill.
Clive Robertson jump-started his career at the ABC back in the 1970s—a time of significant change and innovation in broadcasting.
His unique style quickly set him apart from his fellow presenters, which caught the attention of many.
Industry figures credit Clive Robertson for his quick wit and banter skills on-air. Image Credit: YouTube/Sunrise
Robertson then joined the Seven Network in the 1980s, where he continued to make his mark as a presenter who continued to push boundaries and challenge the industry's status quo.
Robertson's approach to broadcasting was unique at the time; he had his off-script antics during late-night news segments.
This practice earned him a cult following and paved the way for other presenters like Graham Kennedy to bring a similar style to television.
Aussie radio broadcaster Margaret Throsby paid tribute to Robertson as a 'brilliant broadcaster'.
'Eccentric, one-off, brilliant broadcaster, tease, unreconstructed, his Breakfast show on 702 Sydney was essential listening. RIP,' Throsby stated.
His morning show on 702 Sydney became a staple for listeners who enjoyed his mix of humour, insight, and occasional provocation.
Media commentator Jason Morrison regarded Robertson as one of his 'greatest mates' in the industry.
'He was funny, brilliant and remarkable. He was as everyone remembers him, right up to the end,' Morrison shared.
Clive Robertson's personal life was as vibrant as his career; he married A Country Practice star Penny Cook and was a beloved part of the Australian television community.
His legacy included hosting stints for Newsworld and the iconic Beauty and the Beast, where he played as an 'interesting presenter,' as described by 6PR's Peter Ford.
This diversity in roles allowed him to showcase his ability to engage with a wide range of topics and guests.
In his final years, Robertson bravely fought cancer privately.
His last day on air was an emotional moment that brought tears to the eyes of the Australian radio star, a testament to the deep connections he had forged throughout his career.
May they both rest in peace.
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