Legendary journalist Derryn Hinch has left one final “salacious” story behind, proving he was the Human Headline right until the end.
Hinch died on July 10 at the age of 82 after a lengthy health struggle, much of which he documented for followers on social media.
Mourners gathered to farewell one of Australia’s most outspoken and influential voices on Monday.
The service for the lifelong atheist began at midday at the Timber Yard events space in Port Melbourne.
In typical Hinch style, the self-proclaimed Human Headline had pre-arranged his own funeral.
During his speech, former 3AW broadcaster and colleague Tony Tardio revealed one final bombshell about Hinch.
Tardio claimed during Hinch’s interview with Hollywood superstar Bette Midler 53 years ago, the pair’s professional relationship became romantic.
“The only thing history owes the dead is the truth,” Tardio said, before dropping the bombshell.
“Derryn and Bette Middler engaged in a bit of horizonal romper after that interview.
“And that is the truth.”
The crowd responded with laughter, as Tardio went on to describe Hinch as a “journalist James Bond”, adding drama seemed to follow him everywhere.
Hinch became a household name during his decades on Melbourne radio station 3AW, where his uninhibited style and willingness to court controversy transformed talkback radio.
He later hosted a national television program and became a relentless campaigner against child sex abusers.
His crusade ultimately saw him jailed for contempt of court.
Hinch also spoke candidly about his personal struggles, including drinking six bottles of wine a day before liver cancer led to a life-saving transplant.
The service ended with Hinch’s coffin carried out to a live rendition of Frank Sinatra’s That’s Life.
The performance was sung by Australian country artist Bob Valentine, paying tribute to the signature tune — and catchphrase — Hinch famously used to end his radio and television broadcasts.
Derryn Hinch funeral
Hinch initially moved from New Zealand to Australia to pursue a career in journalism, climbing the ranks to become editor of The Sun, before turning to a career in radio.
Later, Hinch turned to the political arena, forming Derryn Hinch’s Justice Party and serving as a senator for Victoria in the federal parliament from 2016 to 2019.
He became known as the “human headline”, a moniker he enthusiastically adopted, for his outspoken and often controversial opinions.
The state funeral for the former broadcaster and senator on Monday attracted notable figures, including news presenters Ray Martin and Denis Walter, entertainers Rhonda Burchmore and Greg Evans, and former Crown executive Ann Peacock.
There was a pre-recorded tribute from Hinch’s third wife, actress Jacki Weaver, who is currently filming in WA’s Goldfields.
She said Hinch had been a great stepfather to her son, Dylan, and while the high-profile stars had separated, they had remained “very close” and Hinch had texted her the night he died.
Instead of hymns, songs performed included the Australian national anthem and You Are So Beautiful, made famous by Joe Cocker.
An Australian flag was draped over his casket, surrounded by vases of red roses symbolising deep love, respect, courage and enduring affection.
Hinch’s current partner, former actress Linda Stoner, was seen laying a rose on his coffin.
- With AAP
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