A Tribute to James Dibble AM, MBE

(4 February 1923 - 13 December 2010)

After 27 years with the ABC, as its popular Chief Television Newsreader James retired on 10 June 1983. The next day he commenced his work with the Peer Support Program. James served as Chairman of the Peer Support Foundation for 17 years, then continued to sit on the Board until October 2008 when sadly his deteriorating health made it difficult for him to attend Board meetings. Jim's contribution to Peer Support Australia continues to be valued by everyone whose life he’s touched.

James Dibble read the first bulletin from ABN2 in 1956 and was still reading the news in 1983

James talks about his convict ancestry, his early life and work at the ABC

Interview by Geraldine Doogue, Lord Mayor’s Civic Reception, James Dibble entertains

James Dibble reading the ABC TV Australia’s first colour new Bulletin (1 March 1975)

The World Today, James Dibble reading his last news bulletin

1942/45	Served with Royal Australian Air Force
1946	Began broadcasting career with Macquarie Network station 2CA Canberra
1947	Joined Australian Broadcasting Commission
	Read National News Bulletins on all ABC Radio stations throughout Australia and Papua New Guinea for 34 years
1954	Accepted offer from Macquarie Network to become chief newsreader on key Network station 2GB
1956	Rejoined ABC to read first ABC Television News and remained there as Newsreader till retirement in 1983
1974	Awarded an MBE by Her Majesty the Queen for services to Broadcasting
1983	A Thorn-EMI Award "to recognise excellence in 27 years of TV News presentation"
	Was given the honours of a Civic Reception at the Sydney Town HAll by the Lord Mayor and a dinner with The Governor General at Government House Canberra to mark retirement
	Has, since 1983, been Chairman of The Peer Support Foundation Ltd, a voluntary organisation engaged in the promotion of Elizabeth Campbell's Peer Support Program in high schools
	Since retirement has accepted a number of selected endorsement contracts
1988	Master of Ceremonies at the handing-over of Britain's Bi-centennial gift to Australia, The Young Endeavour
1988	Master of Ceremonies in the Great Hall of the new Parliament House Canberra, for the official opening by Her Majesty the Queen
1989	Awarded Member of the Order of Australia for services to the media and the community

ABC Tribute to James Dibble

Peer Support Australia gratefully acknowledge the support of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation in providing the above video and audio clips and licence for use