Beloved ABC radio star Sarah Tomlinson has died unexpectedly of anaphylactic shock. She was aged 40.
The award-winning presenter suddenly fell unwell while on annual leave and passed away shortly after. She was the chief of staff for ABC Mildura-Swan Hill in South Australia.
“Sarah Tomlinson passed away on the evening of Nov 8th from anaphylaxis. I’m so very grateful that her last days were in sunshine and happiness on holiday with her beautiful doggo Harley whom she loved so much, and who gave her unconditional love,” her friend wrote on Facebook.
Tomlinson had been a broadcaster since she was 14-years-old, she started working as a guest host for Good Morning Country on Mildura community radio station 3HotFM in her hometown of Mildura on the Murray River. She has been remembered for her great sense of humour and kind heart.
The reporter’s cousin posted a photo of them together with a heartbreaking caption reading, “It is with deep sadness I reflect on the life of my dear cousin, idol and friend Sarah Tomlinson. Her life was full, her jokes were hilarious/cringe-y, and her voice had that beautiful husk. She was everyone’s cheerleader and the greatest gift-giver. I will miss her everything.”
Her former Radio Adelaide colleague Dan Davis also shared a touching tribute. “This one hurts. Sarah Tomlinson was so kind to me during my time at Radio Adelaide and continued to reach out years after I left. A true advocate for regional voices and one of the sharpest wits I’ve ever known. The world is worse off without her in it.”
ABC reporter Casey Briggs praised Tomlinson for her influence on regional media.
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“Sarah Tomlinson was enthusiastic, funny, hardworking and a fierce advocate for community and regional media and the power of radio. She was one of my first mentors and trainers in community radio and I’ve learnt so much from her,” Casey penned.
ABC acting director of Regional and Local Hugh Martin offered condolences to Sarah’s loved ones.
“Tributes to Sarah from across the entire organisation are a testament to her work as a radio broadcaster and regional leader,” he said.
