TV host’s tearful send-off after 15 years

The ABC has said farewell to TV hosts Michael Rowland who presented his final breakfast show this morning after almost 15 years in the job.

Michael Rowland, who has sat in the chair as co-host of ABC News Breakfast in June 2010, appeared on the show for the last time on Friday.

“One of the proudest things of this job has been helping build up an audience,” Mr Rowland said.

“The hand shakes, the greetings, telling people stories, but connecting with the audience.”

News Breakfast co-hosts Emma Rebellato, Bridget Brennan, and Charles Brice also paid their tributes to the outgoing host, recalling their favourite memories over the years.

“Michael is the centrepiece of News Breakfast,” said ABC journalist Paul Kennedy.

Others congratulated the outgoing host for his “consistency” and “hard work”.

Mr Rowland had a few kind words to share with the crew as well, taking particular note of the studio’s camera operator, who “made many of us look good within the years”.

”I want to take this opportunity as well to thank all of you for helping me look good on camera,” he joked.

“I also want to thank again my co presenters, Bridget, thank you. It’s been wonderful working with you only for a short amount of time.”

Mr Rowland also shared a kind message to his loved ones, who made a special appearance on the show.

However, it hasn’t all been sunshine and roses for the host.

According to Mr Rowland, his wife and kids had to make some sacrifices to help make his role possible over the years, including the early morning starts.

“I’m not going to miss the 4am door slam,” his son said.

Fans of the ABC breakfast show were just as sad to see Mr Rowand go, sharing their tributes to the outgoing host on his final breakfast slot.

“For myself and many thousands of ABC viewers, I’m so sorry you’re leaving us,” a viewer named Kathy said.

“But it’s been a breath of fresh air to wake up with you. My tears have been flowing.”

Another viewer, Kirsten, referred to Mr Rowland as “intelligent, respectful (and) kind”.

In response, Mr Rowland thanked has audience for the kind messages.

“I am so exceptionally proud of the audience I – we -have helped build over the years. I’ve got lots of messages. I’ve been truly overwhelmed by them,” he said.

“Thank you very much, it’s been wonderful!”

Meanwhile, after three years hosting the ABC’s flagship morning radio show RN Breakfast, host Patricia Karvelas signed off for the last time.

“You’ve been there with me throughout great change in our country and the world, and I want to thank you for it,” she told her listeners on Friday morning.

“Because of a strong public education system and dedicated teachers and incredible family support, I got to grow up and host a national radio show where rigour and curiosity is at the centre of what we do.”
Finally, she shared her best wishes for the incoming host Sally Sara, who will replace Ms Karvelas in 2025.

“I’ll be listening because I care about this show, and I care about journalism, and I care about telling the truth in a world where the truth is not to be contested,” she said.