Radio legend Neil Mitchell signs off after 34 remarkable years on the airwaves

Iconic radio presenter Neil Mitchell has bid farewell to listeners after 34 years of hosting as host of 3AW Mornings

Mitchell has been a steadfast companion for listeners during the 8.30 am to midday timeslot since 1990, navigating them through the ebbs and flows of news, politics, and everyday life.

Known for his unwavering commitment to honest journalism, Mitchell has become an institution in Australian media.

Mitchell began his final show on Friday, December 1 by playing Another One Bites The Dust before launching into an interview with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. He then took the time to take calls from listeners in the final half hour of the program.

As his final show drew to a close, Michell kept it simple, proclaiming “That’s it” as the clock struck midday.

“There’s nothing profound to finish. I’ve said most of it,” he told listeners.

“I do want to thank you for your trust and for your patience and for your advice and for your criticism and for your commitment. I promised I wouldn’t be shedding a tear and I don’t think I will because I’m really delighted with the time I’ve had and I’m delighted with what’s ahead.”

Listeners flooded social media with heartfelt messages, expressing gratitude and wishing Mitchell all the best on his journey after his final broadcast, illustrating the profound impact he had on countless lives.

“We’ve been together during hard times, happy times and sad times. Best of luck, going to be very different at 8.30 not hearing you after so many years. Thank you,” one listener wrote.

“Enjoy your retirement. And all the best Neil.”

“Thank you, Neil for being an honest voice for many of us! You were and hopefully will be a part of our life! Wishing you heaps exciting events coming your way and a good health to enjoy it!” another commented.

“Thank you Neil for being there when I needed someone to listen to and giving so much, information and entertainment throughout the years. Enjoy what your next plans are. Thank you.”

“All the best to you and your family! I have loved the show!! Well done to you! Enjoy the rest, and the life ahead! xx.”

“Thank you Neil for being on the radio for many years. I have listened to you for a while and wish you a happy and fulfilling retirement.”

“Good luck Neil with your new ventures and what a career you’ve had ! Melbourne/victoria won’t be the same without you gracing our airwaves!”

Mitchell joined 3AW in 1987, commencing a journey that would lead to an illustrious career. He started part-time on weekends and filled in as a morning host for Derryn Hinch. By October of that year, he hosted the Drive program, and in 1990, he took on Mornings, becoming a key figure in Melbourne.

Mitchell’s achievements span across radio, TV, and newspapers, earning him Walkley, Quill, and ACRA awards. Notably, he’s the only person in both the Melbourne Press Club Hall of Fame and the Australian Commercial Radio Hall of Fame.

His other accolades include an impressive tally of eight Melbourne Press Club Quill Awards for Best Radio Current Affairs Report, complemented by another for his prowess as a columnist.

Notably, the Melbourne Press Club Graham Perkin Australian Journalist of the Year Award of 2011 found its rightful home in Mitchell’s hands, marking the first instance of a radio journalist securing this coveted recognition over a quarter of a century.

In a subsequent triumph, a Walkley Award was bestowed upon him in the radio/audio news and current affairs category, an acknowledgment of his incisive reportage that revealed the Ford Motor Company’s decision to cease vehicle manufacturing in Australia post-2016.

In 2007, he became an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) for his contributions to media and the community through charitable work.

With numerous Australian Commercial Radio Awards (ACRAs) under his belt, including seven Best Talk Presenter awards and eleven Best Current Affairs Presenter awards, Mitchell’s legacy remains strong.