Deb Knight ‘YES, I’M TURNING 50!’
AGEING ISN’T AN ISSUE FOR THE TV AND RADIO STAR
Afew minutes past 3pm on a Friday afternoon and veteran journalist Deb Knight is just off-air from her afternoon radio show.
Fresh as a daisy, the devoted mum admits to New Idea that while she’s more than fine about her upcoming 50th birthday, the thought of planning an epic shindig is not so appealing!
“I’m proud of what I’ve achieved with my beautiful family and career over the past five decades, but I don’t need to cruise up a European river or trek to Antarctica just because I’m turning 50!” she says with her cheeky trademark grin.
“I’ll be happy with a cake and candles on November 23, with the kids and family, and our closest friends.”
What a ride it’s been for the girl born in Coffs Harbour.
After completing a journalism degree at Charles Sturt University in Bathurst, Deb landed a job in Wagga Wagga at the local radio station.
From covering politics for the ABC, to becoming a foreign correspondent and a stint on TV’S toughest job as a co-host of Today, Deb has become one of the most trusted faces in Oz.
“I certainly don’t miss the early mornings and ‘silly o’clock’ starts, that’s for sure!” she laughs.
“Whenever I’m asked what’s my secret to keeping fit and healthy, top of the list is the importance of sleep – I’m tucked in bed most nights before 10pm!
“I go to the gym three times a week, and have always had a healthy diet – except I might’ve indulged a little too much in the kids’ Halloween stash!”
Asking Deb to recall her career highlight, it doesn’t take long to turn the clock back 30 years to when she was a rookie reporter on ABC’S Landline and was sent to interview then-prime minister John Howard.
“It was a pinch-me moment – discussing rural issues with our PM, and many years later I was in Washington DC in the press gallery for Channel Ten when September 11 happened. Again, I interviewed Prime Minister Howard who was there that fateful day,” she remembers.
These days, Deb is in her happy place hosting Afternoons on 2GB, where, along with her talented production team, have created an easy-paced, breezy few hours for her tribe of faithful listeners.
“There’s nothing like radio for having an immediate connection with the audience – which can be both good and bad!” she laughs.
A self-confessed workaholic, Deb rounds out her week with two nights hosting A Current Affair, so it begs the question, was she shortlisted to take over the reins from the legendary Tracy Grimshaw?
“I love my time on
ACA, and I adore my radio gig – whatever happens, it’s a win-win because I get to wake up every day and do what I love,” she says.
Married to husband Lindsay Dunbar since 2005, they have three gorgeous children – son Darcy 13, and daughters Elsa, 12, and Audrey, 6.
“I like being a role model for my kids – my mum [Barb] was a single working mum and I’ve always admired how she juggled it all,” she says.
Though Deb admits some things have changed over the years.
“Who would’ve thought as I approach my 50th I would get so excited about my latest purchase, a high-pressure cleaner – I can’t get enough of it!
“Life is definitely simpler – but I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
‘Life is simpler – I wouldn’t have it any other way’