Queensland's first TV star dies aged 90
Queensland's first television star, Hugh Cornish, has died at a retirement village in Hamilton, Brisbane aged 90.
A major figure in television, the iconic presenter made history as the first person to ever greet Channel 9 audiences in Queensland when television went live on August 16, 1959.
"I said something like, 'Hello Brisbane, welcome to television' and really, that was it," Cornish recalled in a 1990s interview.
His son Tim, confirmed the news of his passing on social media.
"Last night we lost one of the remaining burning stars. He was the greatest gentleman you could ever hope to meet," he shared.
Cornish began his media career as a radio presenter at 4IP in Ipswich in 1934.
Following his first TV appearance, Cornish eventually became the general manager of Channel 9 Queensland, and was the first person to run the same shows every night instead of once a week.
In the 1960s he hosted the variety show Brisbane Tonight before he went on to present the talent show Stairway to the Stars in the 1970s.
He later served as an executive at Nine and the Seven Network.
The TV star was remembered by his loved ones today after news of his death.
"Every time I think of Hugh Cornish, I think, I know we had the best days in the television industry because they were pioneering days," former television director Garry Gibson said.
"I just remember him as a kind loveable person who would help anybody.
"This man was interested in television and he wanted to make entertainment and we all chased that."
Managing director of Nine Queensland Kylie Blucher said his contributions to the media landscape were second to none.
"His face and voice became a trusted presence in countless homes," Blucher said in a statement.
"For decades, he brought warmth, professionalism, and dedication to Channel Nine's screen."
Veteran newsman Brett DeBritz added that many in this industry "owed their careers" to Cornish.
"Everybody who grew up in the sixties and seventies knew his face. He was the guy who brought local current affairs to Channel Nine, and he was also an entertainer.
"A lot of people owe their careers to him."
"He probably made a bigger impact on getting talent known and up and running in Brisbane than anybody else I know, ever," producer-director and friend John Stainton said.
Images: Nine