Beloved Aussie radio host dead at 77 after ongoing health battle

Tributes have poured in for the much-loved veteran who was on the airwaves for 60 years and earned the title of Adelaide’s most trusted voice.

Beloved South Australian radio host, Leon Byner, has died at the age of 77.

The radio veteran, who was heard across the airwaves for 60 years, passed away on the weekend after an ongoing battle with acute leukaemia.

Best known for his FIVEAA morning program, Byner was a much-loved and trusted voice, with tributes pouring in from those who knew him or grew up listening to him.

“Loved listening to him every morning,” one fan wrote on Facebook.

“A gifted broadcaster in his earlier days. A man who did not stop crusading. It was his life’s work and contribution to SA,” another offered.

Leon Byner on his last day presenting on FiveAA in Adelaide in 2022. Picture: Matt Loxton

Another person took to social media to share how Leon was more than just a calming voice on the radio, but a helpful friend – even if you never actually met in person.

“RIP Leon. You have been an absolute joy to listen to over the years on 5AA. You were Adelaide’s go to person wherever the public rang up and had a problem with their mobile phone company, electricity, housing trust etec. You always knew where to send them to get the answers to their problems. Rest Easy, you’ve earned it.,” they wrote.

It has been a sad week in radio, with Byner being the second radio icon to pass away.

Talkback host ‘Golden Tonsils’ John Laws also died earlier in the week at 90.

The legendary hosts famously crossed paths when Byner replaced Laws on 2UW in the 1970s, following a move from 5AD to 5KA.

Leon Byner at 5AA Radio studios in 2003. Picture: Supplied

Leon famously took over from John Laws in the 1970s. Picture: Supplied

During his stint on the program, Byner was famously told to be authentic and not try and replace Laws in any way.

“Be Leon, don’t try to be John Laws. Be yourself,” they advised.

Proving they were equally dedicated to their craft, both officially stepped away from the microphone around a year before their passing.

The loss of two greats has certainly been felt in the industry.

“Wow two great broadcasters in one week,” someone shared on Facebook, their words perfectly summing up how many Australians are feeling this week.

Originally published as Beloved Aussie radio host dead at 77 after ongoing health battle