Jon Faine's last broadcast for ABC mornings

ABC radio stalwart Jon Faine has bid farewell after 23 years as the host of the broadcaster's morning slot in Melbourne.

Faine's 30-year career with the national broadcaster ended with a public show broadcast live from Melbourne Town Hall this morning.

The line-up included Nine's Chief Political Correspondent Chris Uhlman, who previously spent time as a producer on Faine's show, four Victorian premiers including the current office-holder Daniel Andrews, and opposition leader Michael O'Brien.

Faine's career included covering major political issues and human interest stories, and conducting thought-provoking conversations with celebrities. He was known for his unapologetic interrogations of guests.

Faine was chosen to fill the ABC morning talkback slot in 1996, in what could be described as a remarkable comeback.

""Only two years earlier Faine's show had been axed and he was let go from the ABC."

Among his most memorable interviews was in 1999 with then-premier Jeff Kennett during a Victoria state election, which Mr Kennett would eventually lose to ALP underdog Steve Bracks.  

When Faine took the premier to task with some uncomfortable questions, Kennett refused to answer, instead, somewhat petulantly claiming he would just "sit here and drink my tea".

Some political commentators saw it as the moment that cost Mr Kennett the election.

His shoes will be filled by another long-time ABC presenter Virginia Trioli, who will hit the airwaves from 8.30 on Monday.