Media identity Jonathan Coleman takes home an OAM for his dedication to news

JONATHAN Coleman’s award of OAM recognises how exemplary his talent and commitment has been to delivering news and entertainment both on our shores and abroad.

Channel 10 presenter Jonathans "Jono" Coleman from Lindfield has been awarded an OAM for service to the broadcast media industry, and to the community.bHere pictured at Channel 10 studios, Pyrmont with L-R Australian-British author Cathy Lette and Channel 10 presenter Jessica Rowe who have been appointed AM for mental health advocacy. Picture: ELENOR TEDENBORG

THERE  are some inspirational success stories in Australia, but what makes Jonathan Harry Coleman’s special is that he’s flown to the far reaches of the world to keep people informed.

The Lindfield resident was awarded the Medal (OAM) of the Order of Australia for his ongoing dedication to news and entertainment and his service to the community.

“I was in London for 16 years where I was a radio presenter on Virgin Radio from 1993 until 1998 and in that time became the No. 1 breakfast program in the UK,” Coleman said.

“I was the lovable and wacky reporter on Network Ten’s Wonder World which was a children’s show that aired in 1980.

“The funny part is that I’m now back as a presenter with Studio 10 and absolutely loving it.”

With Triple J recently celebrating its 40th birthday, Coleman said he was proud to have been involved with the youth broadcaster on and off air for many years.

“Ian (Dano) Rogerson and I had a show on Triple J with our program Off the Record that ran for a few years in the early ’80s,” he said.

Larrikin and Channel 10 presenter Jonathan ‘Jono’ Coleman has been awarded an OAM. He is pictured with Australian-British author Cathy Lette (L) and Ch10 presenter Jessica Rowe (R). Picture: ELENOR TEDENBORG

Larrikin and Channel 10 presenter Jonathan ‘Jono’ Coleman has been awarded an OAM. He is pictured with Australian-British author Cathy Lette (L) and Ch10 presenter Jessica Rowe (R). Picture: ELENOR TEDENBORG

Continuing from there, Coleman carried on their on-air charisma and charm from 1990 until 2011 at Australian Radio Network with a prime-time WSFM drive program.

But his tip for staying on top is to keep busy.

“If there was ever a way to stay away from Alzheimer’s disease, it would be to keep active both mentally and physically and that’s why I go to the gym,” he said.

Coleman was among the 824 Australians to be honoured on Monday with 613 General Division appointments in the Order of Australia and 211 Australians recognised through meritorious and military awards.