Veteran journalist George Negus has died at the age of 82 after a battle with Alzheimer’s disease, his family confirmed in a statement today.
The statement said Negus “passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones” and thanked Australian healthcare workers for supporting him “in the best possible way” during his final moments”.
“Despite the challenges diseases like Alzheimer’s inflict on families, we still shared beautiful times, laughter and happiness together in recent times.
“We also learnt a lot.”
ABC George Negus
In a social media post, the Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance (MEAA) paid tribute.
“It is with sadness that MEAA notes the passing of legendary journalist George Negus,” the post read.
“A founding member of 60 Minutes and former ABC reporter and host, he was a MEAA media member since 1969. His impact on Australian journalism will live on.”
60 Minutes Australia also posted this tribute: “We will always treasure the stories and memories he gave us all.”
The Herald Sun described him as the blueprint for Australian foreign correspondents in their brief post.
Negus began his journalistic career with The Australian and The Australian Financial Review.
He rose to prominence as a reporter for ABC’s This Day Tonight, later serving as a founding correspondent for 60 Minutes and co-host for Today Australia.
He presented 60 Minutes from 1979-1986 and went on to present Foreign Correspondent from 1992-1999.
The news veteran also had two current affairs programs, George Negus Tonight on ABC and 6.30 with George Negus on Network Ten.
Negus also established his own media company, Negus Media International, in the late 1980s, which he ran alongside wife and journalist Kirsty Cockburn.
He became a Member of the Order of Australia in 2015, recognised for his significant service to the media, conservation and the environment.
Negus is survived by Kirsty, sons Ned and Serge, and other family.
