Tributes pour in as beloved radio star dies aged 78 after hosting iconic gardening talkback show for 40 years
Beloved Australian ABC radio star Tom Wyatt passed away on Wednesday, New Year’s Day, at the age of 78.
No cause of death was given and he is believed to have been in ill health following his retirement from radio in 2022.
The famous horticulturist was born in Queensland in 1946 and hosted the iconic Gardening Talkback program on ABC Capricornia for forty years, from 1982 to 2022.
On his program, Tom has advised thousands of Australians over the years on gardening hints and tips to ensure their gardens look as beautiful as ever.
His death was confirmed by Queensland MP Michelle Landry in a heartbreaking statement on social media.
“My deepest condolences to the loved ones of local legend, Tom Wyatt,” Landry began.
Beloved Australian ABC radio star Tom Wyatt (pictured) passed away on Wednesday at the age of 78
“Tom had a passion for gardening and is responsible for many of the beautiful green spaces we enjoy today,” he continued.
‘He also helped countless listeners with their gardening problems in his weekly segment on ABC Capricornia.
“With his passion for the community, Tom will be remembered for dedicating his life to improving the region he loved for generations to come. Valley.’
The garden expert worked as curator of the Rockhampton Botanic Gardens in regional Queensland in the 1970s.
He got his big break in showbiz in the early 80s when ABC Radio decided to put him on air as their resident gardener.
His Gardening Talkback program first aired as a weekly segment in July 1982 and lasted only ten minutes.
However, due to its enormous popularity among the regional Queensland community, it was soon extended to half an hour and then to a full 60 minutes.
Tom was the resident garden expert at ABC Capricornia for four decades, helping thousands of listeners overcome various horticultural challenges.
The famous horticulturist was born in Queensland in 1946 and hosted the iconic Gardening Talkback program on ABC Capricornia for 40 years, from 1982 to 2022.
Tom has advised thousands of Australians over the years on gardening hints and tips to ensure their garden looks as beautiful as ever
He retired in July 2022 at the age of 76 after 40 years in the role.
The star explained at the time that this was so that he could enjoy a well-deserved rest.
Heartbroken fans quickly took to social media to express their sadness over Tom’s passing.
“He will be sadly missed, he always had a sense of witty humor,” one person wrote.
‘Enjoyed some great conversations and laughs over the years.’
‘RIP Tom. I will miss listening to your gardening tips,” a second user added.
ABC Capricornia Chief of Staff Chrissy Arthur paid tribute to Tom in 2017 in recognition of 35 years on the air.
At the time, he revealed his secret to connecting with so many listeners.
‘It’s amazing to see how he answers the questions live-to-air. He has so much information in his head and immediately seems to know the solution to gardening problems.’
In addition to his talkback show, Tom also wrote several gardening books that sold well across the country.
Tom received the Pride of Australia Award in 2006 in recognition of his long-standing services to the Australian environmental sector.
He is survived by his daughter Lisa.