Dear Friends

During the past weeks I have been touched by the deaths of two ABC personalities serving on ABC radio and TV. John Clarke died suddenly and unexpectedly on 9 April. Just last week on 11 May, we heard of the death of Mark Colvin who had struggled with severe health issues for twenty years.

John Clarke died doing what he enjoyed doing, hiking in the Grampians National Park. Obituaries spoke of mainly of his amazing ‘laconic’ wit, his brilliant satirical mind and perfect comedic timing. He made millions laugh with his 'satirical take on politics and daily life', and was praised 'for the way he tore down the "hypocrisy" and "absurdity" of Australian politics.'

Mark Colvin’s death has had a huge impact on journalists - and on me. Being a Radio National fan, I instantly recognised Mark Colvin’s voice on Radio National’s PM program. During the time since his death I have listened and watched his colleagues speak about him. They have spoken of his professionalism and his high expectations of journalists. They know they had to be prepared for any segment of PM, know their facts, and be on top of the issue for Mark would be sure to ask insightful questions. They also spoke of his sensitivity to their situation. When they found themselves reporting on a traumatic or life threatening situation that aroused their fear or anger, based on his own experience of such situations, Mark was able to talk them through the interview.

Journalists spoke of his mentoring them not only in their early days but even when they were experienced reporters. Each spoke of their regular contact with him. One journalist suggested that he made you feel as though you were his best friend, because of the care he showed and the interest he expressed.

People described Mark Colvin’s terrible suffering that resulted from his time in Rwanda. They spoke of the fact that despite the dreadful personal suffering it caused, he never complained and was always cheerful, greeting each person as he struggled into the office.

Until very recently, apart from recognising his voice, I knew very little about Mark Colvin. I heard of his dreadful illness contracted during the course of his work, causing the breakdown of his body, leading to his need for dialysis. I think that he made this known very much in the context of the generous kidney transplant offering him a greater quality of life and hope of extended life.

Of his humanity, his care for his colleagues, his sense of humour, his humility, his silence in suffering, I knew nothing.

As well as listening to Correspondent’s Report’s tribute twice, I watched Foreign Correspondent.

I often read obituaries particularly of people who have served our society well; humanitarians and scientists particularly draw my attention. They leave me questioning my own life. If I were to be remembered, how would I want my obituary to read? How then do I want to live? Hearing Mark Colvin’s colleagues speak of him cause me to question myself. May his example inspire us to live and love.

I know nothing about Mark Colvin’s faith. From what I have read I sense that he was for many ‘a Jesus figure’. He has surely heard the Lord call to him, ‘Come, good and faithful servant’ 

Sr Elizabeth Delaney sgs

General Secretary