The time has come for our last inside look in a TV Boxies category, and what better way to finish than to commend and appreciate the dedicated work of five brilliant Australian TV legends.
As our TV Boxies coverage draws to a close with the awards night scheduled to take place tomorrow, November 28, we’re looking at the television careers of five iconic Australian figures.
From sport, to acting, to journalism, to veterinary, to entertainment – all five nominees are well deserving of their nominations in the Lifetime Achievement category.
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT FINALISTS
BERT NEWTON
Where else could we really start? Nobody has been quite the face of Australian entertainment than Bert Newton, with a television career lasting more than 60 years.
Sadly, Newton passed away on October 30 this year, aged 83.
A naturally-born performer, Newton was recognisable not only on TV, but in the radio and stage worlds as well.
From The Bert Newton Show to Good Morning Australia to Bert’s Family Feud to hosting the Logie Awards, he was on the telly more often than he wasn’t, winning the hearts of every Australian who welcomed him into their lounge room.
Throughout his lengthy career, Newton won numerous awards for his work, including four Gold Logies. on November 12, he was honoured with a state funeral, and laid to rest.
Vale, Bert Newton.
DR HARRY COOPER
Dr Harry Cooper may be one of Australia’s longest-standing and most recognisable veterinarians on TV.
Known as the resident vet surgeon on Burke’s Backyard, Cooper then hosted a couple of his own series, such as Talk to the Animals and Harry’s Practice.
But these days, Cooper presents the veterinary segment on Better Homes and Gardens, a role he has held and been popular with viewers for since 2004.
Beloved by Australians, and most of all the pets he tends, Cooper’s dedicated work for Australian television certainly has been a lifetime achievement.
BRUCE MCAVANEY
Legendary sports broadcaster Bruce McAvaney is popular with players, fellow broadcasters, and fans alike.
Seven’s longtime commentator has been the lead coverage host for several sporting events over his career, whether it’s horse racing, tennis, AFL or The Olympics.
In February of this year, McAvaney retired from calling AFL games in an effort to reduce his workload. But he’s still an integral part of Seven’s sport, and the sporting media industry itself.
Beginning his television career in 1978, there may be signs of him slowing down, but he’s certainly not out. McAvaney is worthy nomination in this category for his lifetime of commitment to sports broadcasting.
LIZ HAYES
One of TV’s most iconic reporters and presenters, Liz Hayes has spent an entire career with Nine and an entire lifetime dedicated to Australian journalism.
After a few different positions with the network, including ten years as co-host of Today, Hayes joined flagship program 60 Minutes in 1996 and hasn’t turned back since.
Celebrating 40 years with Nine this year, Hayes finally took the mantle of her own show: Under Investigation with Liz Hayes. After two successful seasons, the show returns for a third in 2022.
One of the most recognisable faces in Australian news media, Hayes has built a strong reputation with colleagues and viewers, making her a strong contender to take out the Lifetime Achievement.
RAY MEAGHER
There’s not one actor you think of more when someone says Home and Away than you do with the iconic Ray Meagher.
The only actor that is still with the series after it began in 1988, making his character Alf Stewart a household name, and Meagher a beloved Aussie legend.
Already establishing a decent career before he joined the soap opera, Meagher’s commitment and dedication the father figure of Summer Bay is nothing short of commendable.
With a loyal army of fans and a man that nobody has an ill word about, Meagher would not be a surprise winner to anyone for the Lifetime Achievement.
What other five Australian TV legends could possibly round out this category? The five finalists chosen by you must be narrowed down to just one to win the Lifetime Achievement.
Tomorrow night it all kicks off, so get those last minute votes in for the TV Boxies!
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