Prominent gay radio newsreader Geoff Field thanks LGBTI community after radio departure
ONE of Australia’s most high-profile radio news announcers and prominent LGBTI identity stalwarts has thanked the community for their support after he left his radio job earlier this week.
Geoff Field, who is regarded as Australia’s first openly-gay radio newsreader, left Sydney’s 2Day FM and the Southern Cross Austereo (SCA) network after 18 and half years working there.
[showads ad=MREC]Field made the announcement on his social media channels (Facebook / Twitter) on Wednesday, amid news that this year’s Dancing with the Stars winner Emma Freedman will soon replace all of SCA’s drive time newsreaders as part of a new, national streamlined service on its youth-oriented Hit Network.
Earlier this year, Field reminisced on almost-two decades in radio news with Radioinfo.
“I had five mainly good years on the (Kyle and Jackie O) breakfast show, but in March 2010 things had changed. It wasn’t fun anymore. I decided never to work with either host again,” he said.
“The management moved me to the Hamish and Andy show which I loved, and before you ask: No, I never did do pants-off Friday with the boys.”
Field is also a well-known marriage equality campaigner, having “illegally” married his partner Jason in 2005 in a ceremony that attracted media attention.
“I would like to say I’m proud I was the first out newsreader on Australian radio, and I thank the LGBTI community for their unwavering support over the years,” he told the Star Observer.
“One of the highlights was my so-called illegal marriage to Jason which [Sydney state independent MP] Alex Greenwich has described as a life-changing moment for him as a school boy.
“I would also like to to thank the gay press, and in particular the Star Observer.”
Field stated that his immediate plans are to take a holiday with his partner Jason.
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There is a reason why this “new” branding for Austereo is called “SHit” FM. You are well rid of this lamestream media outfit, Geoff. Hope you find your niche elsewhere – you would be a fantastic mentor for those coming in to the industry, particularly those from our community.
All best wishes to you and Jason, Geoff, on your next adventure. It’s been a truly great ride across upheavals in social attitudes towards LGBT minorities, and you have played a huge role in changing public opinion for the better.
Thank you for all you have done.
He left Kyle and Jackie O…it wasn’t fun anymore
The man has true class and standards
Good-luck
I met Geoff at a fundraiser once and he took time out to chat with me and made me feel welcome.
All the best to you and Jason
Thanks Geoff
You will be missed, and thank you for everything x