Veteran radio presenter Graeme Gilbert has died at the age of 76 following an ongoing battle with acute leukaemia. The Talk Tonight on 2SM and Super Radio Network host spent his final months living in aged care, where he had been since last October. The news of his death was confirmed by the network, which shared a heartfelt statement.
"Graeme was deeply loved by his audience across the Super Radio Network, and that affection was mutual. He genuinely adored his listeners and had a lifelong passion for the radio industry. He truly loved what he did behind the microphone," it read. "He was heard across every station in the Super Radio Network, bringing his talk program to audiences right across Australia. Through our Newcastle station, 2HD, Graeme consistently delivered outstanding survey results—a reflection not only of his talent, but of the genuine connection and trust he built with listeners over many years."
A Lifelong Passion for Radio
Graeme fell in love with radio as a schoolboy and said of his job: "I love it – it's never a chore turning up for this job!" For his efforts, he was honoured with the B&T Award for Best News Presenter and a RAWARD for Best Current Affairs Commentator.
The Infamous 'India' Incident
In 2006, an incident on his show led to a running joke that would haunt him for the rest of his career. On May 15 that year, his show received a barrage of calls from members of the public, incorrectly stating that the answer to his trivia question, "Who is the Premier of Tasmania?", was "India" (the correct answer was Paul Lennon). It was picked up by TV channels, and since then, callers have randomly said "India" on air.
Tributes Flood In
Tributes flooded in for the beloved radio legend as the news of his death became public. On Facebook, one person penned: "Really shocked and sad to hear this news. Always loved my time with him in the studio. He had so many listeners around the country. A lovely guy. Sympathies to his family, friends and fans. RIP and thank you for your support."
Another added sadly: "Was on Tasmanian Radio at 7HT. Certainly was a good Broadcaster. That's 3 big names gone to the big Airwaves upstairs. John Laws, Leon Byner, Graeme Gilbert." A third chimed in: "Nice man who started his career in news at 2GO during the early days." Meanwhile, a fourth quipped: "Sad news: Former Super Radio Network 'Talk Tonight' presenter Graeme Gilbert has died at the age of 76. Apparently, he'd been in care since last October. Unfortunately, Graeme is probably going to be best remembered for one word: India."
