ABC journalist, Heather Ewart, has announced that she will retire from the ABC next year after an incredible 50 years at the public broadcaster.

Image: ABC

In recent years we’ve joined Heather on her journeys around Australia in Back Roads. It’s been fun to learn about new people and places and, from time to time, visit some of our own favourite places with her. 

What’s made it special has been Heather. Personable and perceptive are two words that come to mind. Heather has taken us into people’s lives without intruding on their privacy. She’s introduced us to the wonderful world of towns across Australia.

However, Back Roads is only the latest episode in a rich journalism career. Many of us will recall her stints as a foreign correspondent in London and Washington DC where she covered major international news events including the first Gulf War, the Waco siege in Texas, the election of US President Bill Clinton, tensions in the Balkans and Europe’s transition to the euro. 

In Australia, she was Chief Political Correspondent for ABC radio news and current affairs, Political Editor, National Affairs Correspondent and fill-in host for 7.30 and presenter of World at Noon.

Always professional, Heather illuminated national and international politics: she’s one of the greats. But as she said, it wasn’t always an easy path.

“I fought hard for many of [the opportunities], and hope this encouraged other women to have a go as well.” 

Thank you, Heather, for your wonderful contribution to Australia’s cultural and intellectual life.

Cassandra Parkinson
President