Respected Australian news broadcaster Rob Readings dies aged 79
One of Australia's most respected broadcasters, Rob Readings, has died after months of illness, aged 79.
The Queenslander was best known as 9News' first newsreader on the Gold Coast after previous reporting stints in newsrooms in Brisbane and on Nine's lifestyle program, Extra.
His family confirmed the news on social media.
"It is with deep sorrow and extremely heavy hearts, that we as a family announce that our beautiful Dad and loving Poppy, Robert John Readings passed away," they said.
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Readings' family confirmed news of his passing on social media. Supplied
"No longer living with pain, he can now rest in peace.
"We will miss you eternally and love you forever."
Media colleagues across Australia have offered tributes to the man whose professionalism and warmth shined through the lens.
Former producer Paul Reed remembered Readings as a thorough professional who was the perfect fit for Nine's expanded news coverage in 1996.
"He was the ideal choice for local news, Rob was fit, he was healthy, he was personable," Mr Reed said.
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Readings died after a series of health complications Supplied
"When he was in front of camera, he delivered.
"Rob probably became more famous than the legendary Bruce Small, the former Mayor of the Gold Coast."
Readings died after a series of health complications that followed a fall at his home a few months ago.
His funeral will be held on Friday.
Queensland readers can tune into 9News at 6pm for more coverage of Rob Readings' death.
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