October 15th 2024.
This article, written by Kirsty Thomson, the Executive Producer of 60 Minutes, was originally published in 2018 to celebrate the show's 40th anniversary. However, we have decided to republish it today in honor of George Negus, one of the show's founding presenters, who passed away at the age of 82.
I can only imagine that George hoped for some peace and quiet when he returned to his home in Balmain after his hectic job of traveling the world for 60 Minutes. But, as fate would have it, he was immediately recognized by a group of enthusiastic local kids who were ecstatic to see their idol in person.
Even though George was trying to go about his shopping, these kids were relentless in their admiration for him. They would follow him down the street, mimicking the iconic ticking clock that signaled the start of every episode of 60 Minutes. I have to admit, I was one of those kids, tagging along behind George and his entourage. In those days, before the internet, George, along with Ian, Ray, and Jana, were my window to the world.
As a young person, I was mesmerized by their bravery and dedication as they reported from all corners of the globe. Every Sunday night, my family and I would gather in our living room to watch them take us to places we had never been and share stories we had never heard before. The next day, on the school bus, the latest 60 Minutes stories were the hot topic of discussion.
Little did I know back then that I would one day have the opportunity to work on the very show that had such a profound impact on me. 60 Minutes holds a special place in the hearts of all Australians. Perhaps it's because there aren't many TV programs that have been around for 40 years – less than six, to be exact.
It's safe to say that 60 Minutes has become an institution, a show that Australians have come to rely on week after week, year after year. And the reason for its enduring success is quite simple – the stories. For four decades, the dedicated team of reporters, producers, camera crews, and editors at 60 Minutes have poured their hearts and souls into traveling the world and bringing us stories that not only entertain but also challenge, inspire, and evoke a range of emotions.
In its 40th year, 60 Minutes continues to build upon the legacy of those who started the ticking clock. Just this year alone, the show has produced groundbreaking stories that have sparked real change. From Allison Langdon's investigation into hazing rituals at Australian universities to Tom Steinfort's interview with a key witness in a 40-year-old murder mystery that led to a major breakthrough in the case.
Liz Hayes' eye-opening report on the founder of Hillsong Church and the subsequent police investigation into allegations of child abuse cover-up within the church. Liam Bartlett's expose on the live sheep export trade, which resulted in the main exporter losing their license. And, of course, Tara Brown's award-winning coverage of the tragic murder of Queensland schoolgirl Tialeigh Palmer.
But, at the end of the day, none of this would be possible without the incredible people who have dedicated themselves to 60 Minutes since its inception in 1978. They are the heart and soul of the show, the storytellers who have given their all, week after week, for the past 40 years to ensure that we continue to inform, entertain, and inspire our audience for years to come.
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