ABC NEWS veteran Ian Henderson is to retire as Victorian 7pm News presenter after a wonderful career at the national broadcaster spanning almost four decades.
Affectionately known as “Hendo”, he has been the face of the news for around a quarter of a century and is loved and admired by ABC viewers.
Says Ian: “After a long and rewarding career at the ABC, the time has come for me to explore some new directions. It hasn’t been an easy decision, but I’m convinced it’s the right one.”
Henderson joined the ABC in 1980 and reported at home and abroad, including working as a state political and industrial reporter. During four years as ABC Europe Correspondent in the 1990s he reported on the fall of the Berlin wall and the release of Nelson Mandela.
Over his career he has also hosted our state election coverage, presented weekly current affairs program Stateline and led many other special presentations, including our ANZAC Day coverage. His extracurricular activities include being a former President of the Melbourne Press Club.
He has been presenting the 7pm news bulletin on weeknights in Victoria since 1992. One of his most memorable work weeks came in February 2009 when he presented the news live from locations affected by the Black Saturday Victorian bushfires.
“I have some thanks to pass on: to the ABC for the wonderful opportunities it’s given me over the past 38 years; to my many colleagues for their support, good humour and camaraderie over the years; and to our loyal audience for welcoming me into their homes on a nightly basis! It’s been a rare privilege. I have a real sense of a bond with ABC viewers, and it’s a connection I’ll long cherish.
“As Australia’s media landscape contracts, ABC journalism has never been more important. And, importantly, it’s never been stronger.
“I leave you in very good hands.”
ABC Director News, Analysis and Current Affairs Gaven Morris paid tribute to Henderson’s contribution to the ABC, to audiences and to Australian journalism.
“Ian knows the 7pm audience and understands how to speak to them. As a result, viewers have a unique connection to him and they’ll miss him on their screens – as we will miss him in the newsroom,” he said.
“As well as being a favourite with viewers, Ian is an integral member of the Melbourne news team. His editorial decision-making, writing skills, smooth presentation and passion for the job have made him an asset to the ABC.”
Ian’s last bulletin will be on Thursday 11 October. The new line-up will be announced soon.
