Australia's longest serving DJ Bob Rogers, who had a 78-year broadcasting career, dies aged 97
By
Jesse Hyland
Posted 4h ago4 hours ago
Bob Rogers worked in radio stations all over the country.(Supplied)
abc.net.au/news/nsw-bob-rogers-dies-radio-broadcaster/103909712
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- In short: DJ and radio broadcaster Bob Rogers has died at the age of 97 in his Mosman home.
- Friend Derryn Hinch said Rogers was a "radio icon" and "legend" who "will be badly missed".
- Rogers worked for multiple radio stations as a presenter, DJ and announcer including 2UE, 2SM and 4BH.
Australia's longest serving disc jockey Bob Rogers has died aged 97.
The veteran radio presenter, who had a broadcasting career spanning 78 years, died at his Mosman home this morning.
Friend and family spokesperson, Derryn Hinch, paid tribute to Rogers.
"Words like legend and icon are tossed around too much these days, but in the case of Bob Rogers they really apply," he said.
"He really was a legend, he was a radio icon in Australia. He will be badly missed."
In a press release, Hinch said the renowned broadcaster was a "true icon and legend".
"I grew up listening to him from across the ditch in New Zealand. He was a one-of-a-kind talent," he said.
Rogers worked for multiple radio stations across the country as a presenter, disc jockey and announcer.
He began his career as a panel operator for Melbourne-based 3XY in 1942.
The station is currently known as Magic 1278.
Rogers worked for 7HO Hobart followed by Brisbane's 4BH and then Sydney's 2UE.
He achieved fame when he introduced the Top 40 show on 2UE in 1958.
After Rogers joined 2SM as a disc jockey, the radio station jumped to the number one spot in the ratings.
Rogers represented the station when he accompanied the Beatles on their 1964 tour through Europe, Asia and Australia, which was the only time the band toured the country.
He was subsequently nicknamed 'the fifth beatle' as a result.
Rogers was also the morning program presenter for 2UE, 2GB and 2CH.
As well as radio, he hosted his late night TV variety show called The Bob Rogers Show on Channel Seven.
The program lasted for five years.
Rogers was recognised for his contributions to radio with a Medal of the Order of Australia in 2010 and an induction into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2002.
His broadcasting career came to an end in 2020 after seven decades on the air.
Rogers is survived by his wife, Jerry, their four daughters and Rogers' son.