Derryn Hinch, the New Zealand-born radio host who styled himself as the 'Human Headline' for his provocative style, has died at the age of 82. His death this week marks the end of a career spanning four decades in Melbourne and Sydney radio, alongside a foray into politics as a senator.
Radio Career and Political Rise
Hinch was a dominant voice on 3AW during the 1980s and 1990s, with later stints in the 2000s and 2010s. In August 2012, his contract was not renewed, and Tom Elliott took over the Drive program. Undeterred, Hinch founded the Derryn Hinch Justice Party in 2015, advocating for tough law-and-order policies. He was elected to the Australian Senate in 2016, serving a three-year term. The party continues to field candidates, focusing on justice system reforms.
Controversies and Legal Battles
Hinch's notoriety stemmed from his willingness to name alleged pedophiles before legal proceedings, often resulting in contempt of court charges. In 1985, he publicly named convicted child sex offender Michael Glennon, breaking sub judice rules. This led to a $10,000 fine and 12 days in jail, a conviction upheld by the High Court. Hinch later called this the 'thing I'm most proud of in my life'. In 2011, he was convicted again for breaching suppression orders on two sex offenders, receiving five months' house arrest from which he continued broadcasting.
His most famous controversy involved revealing details of Adrian Bayley's criminal history before a suppression order was lifted. Bayley was the murderer of Irish woman Jill Meagher in Melbourne. Hinch published on his 'Human Headline' blog that Bayley was on parole at the time of the murder. For this, he faced a $100,000 fine or 90 days in jail. Hinch refused to pay on principle, serving 50 days in prison.
Health Struggles
Hinch's health declined in 2006 when rapid weight loss revealed a liver tumor, later diagnosed as inoperable liver cancer. In 2010, doctors gave him a 60% chance of survival from surgery removing a third of his liver. Without it, he had only a year to live. He underwent a successful liver transplant in July 2011.
Personal Life and Legacy
Hinch was married five times, including twice to Academy Award-nominated actress Jacki Weaver. They first married in 1983, divorced in 1996, remarried in 1997, and separated again a year later, remaining best friends. His last marriage was to Chanel Hayton from 2006 to 2012. Hinch's death closes a chapter on a life marked by media influence, political impact, and relentless controversy.
