Opposing broadcasters unite to say goodbye to a friend

Broadcaster Darren Madigan was just 49 when he died last year, 12 years after receiving a heart and lung transplant.
 
He’ was dubbed “The walking encyclopedia of sport” and cherished his broadcast time on Tweed – Gold Coast radio at the ABC, as well as a stint as Drive announcer for the Super Radio Network at 2NZ Inverell. 
 
He also worked as a contributor in the 4BC newsroom. 
 
After moving home to Far North Queensland, Darren was broadcasting, right up until his death with the REBEL FM Breakfast show across Queensland and New South Wales.
 
On Saturday afternoon, January 19, a large crowd gathered to bid a fond farewell to the man who touched so many lives with many close friends at the gathering, including broadcasters who worked with Darren, both in Commercial radio and at the ABC.
 
Chaired by broadcast veteran Scott Mayman, there were many distinguished speakers who took to the floor to pay tribute to a friend and colleague as for one day, the rivalry between radio stations was put to one side, to farewell a bloke who gave so much back to the community.
 
REBEL FM breakfast hosts, Ash & Jake said, “He brought so much to our radio show – He was one of those amazing guys who knew absolutely everything about Sport”.   
 
Former Tweed/Gold Coast ABC co-presenter Karen Mitchell said “He was great to work with, a walking encyclopedia of sport. He’ll be sadly missed”.
 
Sports publicist Ian Hanson told the gathering, “If you put all the sportsmen together and all their determination,  you end up with the true grit that Darren portrayed though out his ordeal.”
 
Scott Mayman said, “Darren had no malice,  no anger – he was a kind man who always put other people first. R.I.P. my friend”.
 
As a heart and lung recipient Darren spoke about the importance of being a donor and always put the other person first.
 
At the end of Saturday’s ceremony,  Darren’s ashes were sprinkled on the footy field at the Springwood Football Club,  as part of his wishes.
 
Darren Madigan died on Friday, June 15 2018.   

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