Beloved 9News Queensland presenter Andrew 'Lofty' Lofthouse announces retirement
Nine Queensland presenter Andrew 'Lofty' Lofthouse has today announced his retirement after 17 years with the network.
The esteemed newsreader and journalist will step down to focus on his health.
Lofthouse first joined 9News Queensland as a weekend presenter before transitioning into the weekday spotlight a year later, where he has delivered the evening news alongside on-air partner Melissa Downes for the last 16 years.
Watch 9News Queensland at 6pm for a tribute to Lofty's career at Nine.
Andrew Lofthouse has announced his retirement after 17 years at Nine. Nine
The pair has delivered Queenslanders some of the state's biggest stories, including the 2011 and 2022 floods, Cyclone Yasi, the Christchurch earthquake and Nine's coverage of the Olympic Games in Paris last year.
Lofthouse said his time with Nine had been a privilege.
"I've been in the business a long time," he said.
"It's been an amazing privilege and a wonderful experience with the best in the business.
"And of course, our incredible viewers who make it all worthwhile.
"I'm currently dealing with a bit of a health issue so now is a good time for me to pull back and slow down a little after a dream career.
"Thanks for watching!"
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Downes and Lofthouse have presented the news together for 16 years. Instagram
Downes described her long-time colleague a "true gentleman"
"He is incredibly passionate about quality journalism, taking an interest in every story in our bulletin.
"Lofty is so much more than just a colleague, he's one of my closest friends and I'm so incredibly grateful for the 16 years we shared on the 9News desk."
9News Queensland news director Brendan Hockings described Lofthouse as a "rare gem and exceptional talent".
"For someone so respected, he is also so humble.
"He is the journo who offers to carry the tripod.
"The colleague who makes you a cuppa.
"The news anchor who doesn't see himself as any more than part of the team.
"The example he has set as a newsman is the gold standard.
"He is rare, he is loved and he is forever Nine Queensland.
"We wish him our love and support as he navigates this next period."
Melissa Downes will continue to present 9News Queensland until a co-presenter is appointed.
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