The Australian broadcasting community and fans across the nation are gathering today to pay final respects to radio legend John Laws, who is being honoured with a state funeral in Sydney.
A Fitting Farewell for Australia's Radio King
The state funeral service for John Laws commenced at 11am AEDT at St Stephen's Uniting Church on Macquarie Street in Sydney. This prestigious honour recognises Laws' monumental contribution to Australian media and his decades-long career that made him a household name.
Laws, who passed away earlier this month, became an institution in Australian broadcasting with a career spanning more than six decades. His distinctive voice and interviewing style captivated millions of listeners, making him one of the most recognised and influential media personalities in the country's history.
How to Watch the Historic Service
For those unable to attend in person, the funeral is being broadcast live on Channel 7 and 7plus, allowing fans across Australia to participate in this significant moment. The comprehensive coverage ensures that everyone who admired the broadcasting giant can witness the tributes and celebrations of his extraordinary life.
The service features eulogies from family members, close friends, and colleagues from the broadcasting industry, all sharing personal stories and memories of the man behind the microphone. Current and former prime ministers, politicians, and entertainment figures are among the mourners paying their respects to the man who interviewed them all during his remarkable career.
Legacy of an Australian Icon
John Laws' impact on Australian radio cannot be overstated. His morning program on 2GB and other stations consistently dominated ratings, while his distinctive sign-off phrase - 'I'm John Laws, and that's my opinion' - became part of the national lexicon.
Beyond entertainment, Laws used his platform for significant charitable work, particularly through his support for the Salvation Army's Red Shield Appeal. His voice became synonymous with the annual fundraising campaign, helping raise millions of dollars for those in need.
The state funeral represents not just a farewell to a beloved broadcaster, but the closing of an era in Australian media. As tributes continue to flow in from across the country, it's clear that John Laws' voice will echo through Australian broadcasting history for generations to come.
