Australian journalist Hugh Riminton will depart Network 10 in October and wrap up his 48-year career on daily news.
In an email to staff sighted by Mediaweek, Riminton confirmed his final day at the network would be October 2.
“It is with mixed emotions that I announce today the next stage of my life. I will be leaving the mighty TEN network on October 2nd. One of my emotions is excitement,” he wrote.
Riminton, 65, joined Network 10 17 years ago and currently serves as its national affairs editor. Most recently, he has led the Friday edition of 10 News+ alongside Ursula Heger.
Riminton began his career as a cadet reporter at 17, a start that took him from newsrooms in New Zealand and Australia to major international assignments as a foreign correspondent.
“I got my first job as a cadet reporter aged 17. I am now 65.
“48 years in daily news is probably enough.
Love Film & TV?
Get your daily dose of everything happening in music, film and TV in Australia and abroad.
“This reporter’s life has given me the world. I leave with nothing but gratitude for every hour of it.”
Across his career, Riminton has worked as a foreign correspondent for CNN and the Nine Network, presented Nine’s Nightline and held several senior roles at 10.
He previously served as 10’s political editor, co-anchored the network’s evening news alongside Sandra Sully and presented programs including Meet the Press and Revealed. He was appointed national affairs editor in 2019.
His career has also included Walkley and Logie wins, several books and work with organisations including veterans’ support charity Soldier On.
In a separate email to staff, also sighted by Mediaweek, Paramount Australia vice-president of news Martin White described Riminton’s career as “an innings few of us can comprehend, let alone get close to”.
As you’ve heard already, the great Hugh Riminton has made the tough decision to move on. After a near half-century on the day-to-day news, it’s an innings few of us can comprehend, let alone get close to,” White wrote.
“While I’m sad, and will miss him greatly, I’m also proud to have been able to call him a colleague. I’ve even subbed a few of his scripts, though I can’t recall ever changing a word!
“He is rightly celebrated as one of the premier journalists in this country and has had a vital impact on the Australian media, and on Australian democracy.”
White said Riminton had become a familiar and trusted figure through his work at Network 10, Nine and CNN.
“After long stints with us, Channel 9 and CNN, he is a comforting, familiar figure to millions of Aussies. He’s won Walkleys, Logies, written books and played an important role in foundations like Soldier On.
“My regard for him is impossible to adequately put into words, a sentiment I’m sure you all share.”
While Riminton is stepping away from day-to-day news, White said the network intended to bring him back for major coverage.
“I’ve told Hugh he won’t be gone for good. I thoroughly intend to sub him in for elections, major events and the like.
“But for now, soak up all the wisdom while you can – his last day is the 2nd October.”
In a statement, Network 10 president and head of streaming Beverley McGarvey said Riminton’s impact extended beyond the stories he had reported.
“Hugh Riminton leaves an indelible mark on Network 10 and on news journalism in Australia. Across an exceptional career, he has reported with courage, clarity and compassion, earning the trust of audiences and the respect of peers across the industry.
“Hugh’s contribution goes far beyond the stories he has told. He has helped shape public understanding of major events, upheld the highest standards of journalism, and inspired generations of reporters with his professionalism, generosity and unwavering commitment to the truth.
“On behalf of everyone at Network 10, I want to thank Hugh for his extraordinary service, leadership and friendship. He leaves with our deepest admiration and gratitude, and with a legacy that will continue to be felt across Australian journalism for many years to come.”
Riminton said his immediate plans would centre on his family, including supporting his son through the HSC and spending time with his father, who is approaching his 98th birthday.
“In the coming weeks and months, I plan to support my son as he does his HSC. I also want to spend some time with my splendid Dad, who is turning 98. Every hour is precious.
“After that, I am sure projects will emerge to keep me busy.”
Riminton thanked his colleagues for their friendship during his 17 years at the network and acknowledged White following discussions about his future.
“I want to thank you all for being my colleagues and friends for the past 17 years. There is no one among you I am not proud to work alongside.”
He closed the note with one final assignment for the newsroom.
“I have a couple of weeks to go. The task for all of you is not to make me teary.”
From Mediaweek