“Mate, we’ve fought some battles but we’re still here.”
The calls came in thick and fast, from politicians, entertainers, former colleagues and, of course, his loyal listeners – listeners like Jay,
The 2GB and 4BC breakfast talkback presenter fielded calls from a host of wellwishers, the majority of which were from his listeners who have ensured he has dominated the ratings battle – 226 survey wins in all.
He dedicated his final program to his listeners.
“The open line has been the democratic backbone in this country.”
NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro said rural Australians had been championed by Mr Jones over issues around droughts and bushfires.
“There’s never been someone like you. You’ve been a champion for the truth, a champion for common sense, most importantly you’ve been a champion for team Australia,” Mr Barilaro said.
Jones, a former Wallabies coach, began his radio career in 1985 as a mornings host on Radio 2UE.
He spent 16 years there, the majority as the network’s breakfast presenter, before moving to 2GB in 2001.
He was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in 2005, for service to the community, to the media, and to sports administration.
Jones announced earlier this month that he was retiring after decades of 2am and 3am morning starts to prepare for his show, upon the advice of his doctors.
Ben Fordham will move from the drivetime slot and replace Jones on 2GB’s breakfast program.
Neil Breen will host the 4BC breakfast show. 2GB and 4BC are part of Nine, which also publishes this site.
Source: 9News
