Rod Young: Legendary 7 NEWS newsreader to retire after 45-year career

Legendary newsreader Rod Young is set to present his final bulletin for 7 NEWS Gold Coast. He reveals what’s in store for the future and how his iconic moustache came to be. HIS STORY >>>

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Legendary newsreader Rod Young is in a “weird space emotionally” as he prepares to read his final bulletin for 7 NEWS Gold Coast this Thursday.

It will mark the end of a decorated 45-year career in which he has covered some of the world’s biggest events.

But while the industry has changed greatly since Mr Young’s early days in country radio back in 1975, one thing has remained constant – his love for the job and that trademark moustache, inspired by gun-slinging cowboys in Western films he adored as a child.

Legendary newsreader Rod Young early on his career.

Mr Young, 70, spoke exclusively with The Bulletin ahead of his last ever taping this week, revealing “the time felt right” to close the book on 19 years with the Seven Network.

“When I first started out I wasn’t interested in new reading as such. I was, however, a very staunch supporter of Australian music and I thought I’d get to be a DJ,” he laughed. “I didn’t ever really know what I wanted to do or have a plan to be a newsreader but because I could speak clearly and convincingly, I guess that helped me move into news reading.”

Mr Young’s charisma and talent eventually caught the eye of ABC Queensland bosses, prompting his move into television where he went on to become a familiar face of weeknight news, providing comfort to viewers amid some of the world’s darkest hours – 9/11 included.

Channel 7 newsreader Rob Young is set to retire. Picture: Tertius Pickard

“Seeing those planes crash into the building, for just a couple of moments I didn’t think it was real, that was a powerful image that got seared into me, as well as the consequential reporting on that and everything that followed,” Mr Young recalled, touching on some of his most unforgettable stories before stepping away from the job for two years to be full-time dad to his firstborn with wife and fellow journalist, Karen Berkman.

Rod Young early on his career (centre), alongside former colleagues.

Mr Young joined 7 NEWS Brisbane in 2002 where he co-presented weeknight bulletins alongside “work wife” Kay McGrath for almost a decade before relocating to his current post at the Gold Coast where he co-presents with Amanda Abate.

“I know the game is changing. That’s why I’ve always thought one of the keys to success was longevity and consistency, you’ve got to be there (for viewers) night after night,” he said. “(But) there’s a lot of things I still want to do, I’m not being morbid but when you get into this phase of life, you want to make sure you get to do (those things) you always wanted to.”

He lists home renovations, a potential trip to New Zealand and welcoming his second grandchild as some of those things that will keep him busy in retirement.

An autobiography is unlikely, as is a clean shave: “There’s not much to say,” Young teased, his humility shining through.

“I’m happy and excited about what I’m going to do next. Because I’ve been doing this sort of work for so long, it’s a little bit weird, the emotions are a little weird.

News anchors Rod Young and Kay McGrath presented 7 News Brisbane on weeknights for almost a decade. Photo: Claudia Baxter

“To the legions of loyal supporters who’ve been there over many years, a heartfelt thank you. My sincerest gratitude for the encouragement that has kept me going through good and bad.

While his replacement is not yet confirmed, Young has great faith whoever takes over will do so in seamlessly: “It can only get better.”

7 NEWS Brisbane and Gold Coast director Neil Warren labelled Young an “institution on our screens and airwaves”, beloved as TV’s Mr Nice Guy and the ultimate professional.

“7 NEWS has been fortunate to have Rod as part of our team for many of those years. He quickly earned the trust of viewers, delivering the news with absolute authority,” Mr Warren said.

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