Shock as ABC stalwart Sarah Tomlinson dies from anaphylaxis

One of the most beloved faces in SA’s radio industry has been described as a deeply passionate, kind and generous teacher who was “everyone’s cheerleader”.

ABC presenter and chief of staff Sarah Tomlinson. Picture: Facebook

A well-known SA radio identity has been remembered for her humour, generous spirit, passion for her community and as a stalwart of the industry after her sudden death.

ABC Mildura-Swan Hill chief of staff Sarah Tomlinson suffered a fatal anaphylactic reaction on Tuesday night while on annual leave in SA.

Her sudden passing has devastated her family members and her cousin Kimberley Price hopes her vivacious legacy will continue.

“There has been an overwhelming amount of love and memories shared of our beautiful Sarah” Ms Price said.

Sarah Tomlinson has been remembered as a stalwart of local and community radio. Picture: Facebook

“She has been a trailblazer and mentor for so many in the media industry and the journalism world. Her legacy lives on through all the people she’s helped, guided and laughed with along the way.”

A broadcaster since age 14, Tomlinson was a tour de force of the industry with a passion for community and local radio, presenting music, current affairs and emergency coverage “in every shift from dawn to dark”.

Tomlinson spent time at Radio Adelaide, hosted Mornings and Regional Drive for ABC South Australia and Broken Hill before moving to Mildura.

From 2002 to 2013, Tomlinson was a effervescent and insightful mentor to volunteers at Radio Adelaide, with training co-ordinator Lisa Burns commemorating her contribution to the station.

“Sarah was our station’s training co-ordinator, and for many years, shared her skills and expertise with hundreds of aspiring broadcasters and future media-makers,” Ms Burns said.

“She was renowned for her penchant for terribly good puns and love of country music; surpassed only by her warmth, generosity and care for those around her.

“For station workers old and new, confident or shy, she was the kind of person who made you feel like you always had a friend in your corner and that your contributions and who you were really mattered.”

“She understood the goodness and power of radio in its ability to connect like-minded folk, and give people a chance to find their voice and truly shine – and witnessing it brought her joy.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to Sarah’s family and friends, her darling dog Harley, her ABC colleagues, her beloved Mallee and Wimmera communities, and all those whom she touched and inspired. Her influence is immeasurable and her goodness will always be remembered.”

In 2018, she returned home to the Victorian Mallee in the chief-of-staff role at ABC Mildura-Swan Hill – one of the ABC’s most remote bureaus.

ABC’s managing director David Anderson honoured her dedication to the ABC community.

“Sarah was respected and liked by her colleagues in Adelaide, Mildura and across the ABC community” Mr Anderson said.

“Sarah cared about her colleagues and supported them through real challenges. Her loss is a huge shock and our hearts are with her family and friends” he said.

She also worked as a radio trainer and lecturer in Adelaide.

Friends and colleagues have remembered Tomlinson’s joy, humour and dedication to her community. Picture: Facebook

In social media tributes, Tomlinson remembered by those in the industry as a mentor for many who helped train a generation of aspiring radio stars.

ABC journalist Cristopher Testa said Tomlinson “had the right joke or pun for any moment” and “loved getting on the tools to film reporters”, while ARN presenter Jennie Lenman said Tomlinson was an “incredible radio practitioner and trainer who was always calm, rational and kind”.

“She was also one of the funniest people I’ve ever met with the best dad jokes. She brought joy wherever she went and had a marvellous ability to connect with people from all walks of life,” Lenman wrote.

Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek also paid tribute to Tomlinson, describing her as “hardworking, smart, generous, and deeply passionate about community radio.”

“When I met her, I was struck by her professionalism and her good humour,” Plibersek wrote.

“Thinking of all who loved her at this very sad time.”

Vale, Sarah.

A fellow purveyor of bad jokes and an all-round awesome human being who always had your back. @sarah_tomlinson loved her craft and loved to share that passion with so many people; journos and the audience. You'll be dearly missed. pic.twitter.com/WteIUONQ8h

— Tyrone Dalton (@tyronedalton) November 10, 2022

It is with deep sadness I reflect on the life of my dear cousin, idol and friend @sarah_tomlinson
Her life was full, her jokes were hilarious/cringe-y, and her voice had that beautiful husk.
She was everyone's cheerleader and the greatest gift-giver.
I will miss her everything❤️ pic.twitter.com/muK9hfhrxg

— Kimberley Price (she/her) (@_kimberleyprice) November 10, 2022

Genuinely awful news. Sarah Tomlinson was enthusiastic, funny, hardworking, and a fierce advocate for community and regional media and the power of radio.

She was one of my first mentors and trainers in community radio and I've learnt so much from her https://t.co/488N5x5rWh

— casey briggs (@CaseyBriggs) November 10, 2022