Groundbreaking triple j program director Stuart Matchett passes away

He was influential in shaping triple j both as a presenter and program director, but now, after a long battle with cancer, Stuart Matchett has passed away.

Matchett, a legend of the Aussie radio industry, was 67.

After starting his career in community radio at Brisbane’s 4ZZZ FM, Matchett moved to triple j in 1978 where he worked as a presenter through to 1986.

He moved into the role of program director in 1989, a position he held until 2002, before serving as ABC’s DIG Internet Radio program director until his retirement in 2013.

As radioinfo notes, ABC head of music & creative development Chris Scaddan sent a memo to staff confirming Matchett’s passing.

“Our colleague and friend Stuart Matchett passed away last night after a battle with cancer.

“Stuart was a Double J and triple j legend, starting in 1978 and working his way up as a music programmer, presenter and producer.

“Stuart was a huge music fan whose knowledge and passion spread over so many genres.  He gave so many of us our first start at the ABC and will be remembered as a warm, funny and genuine person. Someone with a huge heart and a huge love of music.”

Double J will be paying tribute to Matchett by replaying some of his best interviews over the coming week.