We’ll miss you, Clive Robertson
The unthinkable has happened: Clive Robertson is no longer a part of our morning wake-up ritual. The other day I directed my browser to “abc net au classic” (Clive’s way of saying the more correct “abc dot net dot au slash classic”) to see what the evening radio had in store for me, and decided to also check the Word of the Day. And what do I see at the top of this page? “Meet Paul Bevan, the new face of Classic FM Breakfast.”
Now I’m sure this Paul Bevan fellow will do his best, but I am sorry to say that he cannot replace our Clive. Only yesterday I spoke to a friend in Sydney (lamenting the Drive program’s “music” selection – more on that later) who asked if I had noticed Clive being rather more unflattering (than usual) when speaking about ABC management. Being the eternal pessimist, I can’t say that I noticed, because I looked forward to his daily grumbling (listening to the effervescent and inane chirping of Clive’s current replacement makes me wish for gladder times). I just hope that Clive wasn’t given the flick for speaking his mind, which was always in good fun (even if he really meant it :-)
ABC Classic FM is less a classical music station these days and more an inclusive, let’s-try-to-please-everybody, bubble and squeak. Station hopping in my car, trying to find Classic FM, is not as easy as you might think, because the number of times that I have pressed what I thought to be the correct button, and found the Beatles or Paul Kelly, is enough to make me truly wonder; what on earth are they up to at the ABC? Are admirers of classical music insufficient to justify the continued existence of such a station? This is probably a silly question, because, undoubtedly, the shelf space given to classical music in your typical record store is dwindling, but to allow Classic FM to die such a slow death is awful!
If Classic FM really must come to an end, then hurry up and be done with it! No more of this watered-down, hodge-podge. Just rename it to “Arts FM”, or something, and preserve the good name of classical music. I am embarrassed to say that I listen to this station because I have heard, sadly, much of the bizarre rubbish that gets played – such as the delightful “radiophonic” gems that offer themselves as unwanted nightcaps on weekdays, or the pop music around drive time. Could you imagine the complaints switchboard at Triple J if Beethoven and Mozart were interspersed with Britney Spears and Destiny’s Child?
Get your act together, Classic FM, or die the slow death that surely awaits. You know, there are products in development, if not on the market already, that will render the likes of you obsolete. I look forward to the day where I can listen to a real classical music radio station and discard my malnourished Sony clock radio. The future isn’t looking so bleak, after all :-)
I agree with everything you say about Clive Robertson and Classic FM. Over Christmas, the choice of music has been really wierd – I’ve hardly listened at all, even in the car – and the vestigial programming seems to indicate a lack of talent and/or money at the station. The signs are very ominous.
But what really perturbed me was the lack of any reason given for Clive’s dismissal by the management. They obviously waited until his contract expired, but even so, some explanation is called for, surely ?
Is there any way to give him support and make him feel better ?
Gwynedd Duncan-Jones
Posted by G.Duncan-Jones on 27-Dec-2004 at 10:26 am
Yep, cannot agree more re Clive Robertson. He introduced me to classical music on the 7am Berwick to Flinders St station train ride each weekday morning. Whats gets me about anouncers is every day they are bright and cheery and all at peace with the world and its a great place. Was I the only one in the world that woke up and knew it was going to be a crap day NO, Clive Robertson was there to agree with me….
Posted by John Elliott on 1-Jan-2005 at 9:58 am
Even more off-putting than their unending positive outlook (something almost as unpalatable as rampant political correctness) is the way that every piece of music is talked-up and spoken of in the most agreeable and complimentary way possible.
Sitting through one of Julian Day’s programs and hearing his enthusiastic commentary on the most irritating of “sound journeys” really makes me want to smash something! It’s O.K. to have an opinion. You’re not there to boost record sales. If you don’t like something, say so, and we may come to respect what you have to say.
The word shill comes to mind.
Posted by Marc Fearby on 1-Jan-2005 at 1:25 pm
I used to listen to Classic FM at work all the time, but ’twas “Drive” that, ahem, drove me away. I wasn’t aware that they’d recently started playing pop songs; surely sitarists’ greatest hits, not to mention an evening of whalesong, was bad enough?
Posted by mark on 3-Jan-2005 at 2:39 am
I am a long distance trucker on the west coast of Canada. I have been listening to Clive Robertson on ABC AM radio via audio tapes (sent by a friend in Sydney) since 1975. I have always enjoyed his mischievious cynicism and wit. I was delighted to discover him again in 2002 on the net, a few weeks after he began his Classic FM show. As I listened to him on my computer, I pulled the streams in and converted each one to sets of rather large mp3 files. These I burned to CD to enable me to have Clive in the cab as I chugged around B.C. and the northwestern U.S. in my truck.
I was most disappointed over the Christmas holidays when I tuned into ABC Classic FM on the net only to find Clive was not on the air. I will miss his company, but on the plus side, I have a mountain of home-made CDs dating back to 2002 that I can play over and over and over……..and not once shall I be bored in the cab. I would like to wish him good luck in whatever he chooses to do next.
R.W.
Posted by Richard Whelan on 12-Jan-2005 at 1:17 pm
I have some more information regarding Clive. Today I received a reply to an enquiry I sent via the Classic FM contact page. It stated that Clive mentioned several times during his last week that he would be discussing his contract with management at the end of his shift on Friday the 10th. At that meeting it was mutually agreed that somebody else would be found to present the breakfast program in the new year.
The only explanation offered was that three years of a very early start was a big ask. Understandable. However, there may be light at the end of the tunnel, as I was reassured that we could be hearing Clive again, some time in the future, perhaps even on the ABC, but not in the early morning.
An adequate alternative would be if Clive were to present the drive time program. He would be most welcome and I’m sure he could even play as much string quartet music as he liked. Hint, hint :-)
Posted by Marc Fearby on 12-Jan-2005 at 6:44 pm
Your news re Clive is most welcome, Marc. I miss Clive’s droll way of looking at the world. This unrelieved chatteriness that’s infected Classic FM is beginning to get on my nerves … and the trailer for Paul Bevan would seem to indicate that he’ll be more of the same.
And Richard, any chance of you distributing your CDs? Just a thought …
Posted by John R on 19-Jan-2005 at 3:43 pm
Forcing Clive to Walk the Plank at least offers him hopes of survival. The Ship is sinking fast, and will take along with it all the Corporate Fools who collectively don’t have the wit, charm, and appeal possessed by Mr. Robertson. Thankfully the computer age provides us the opportunity to tune in Classical Music Stations all over the world, stations that actually play Classical Music. I love to listen to Charles Southwood, I hate listening to most of the selections played during his 4 hours of air time. As for the program that follows Charles, it simply Drives me to flick the off switch.
Posted by leslie brull on 20-Jan-2005 at 10:47 pm
I was out of earshot of ABC Classic FM when Clive departed and only now discovered the void he has left. I’m finding 4MBS FM (classical!) much more palatable at breakfast these days. The return of Clive at a time I can get to hear him would be most welcome.
Posted by Ken Ford on 22-Jan-2005 at 6:36 am
I wrote to ABC FM in December:
“I complain strenuously regarding the sacking of Clive Robertson. Especially with no warning, publicity or thanks.”
and have just received from John Crawford:
“After three years presenting Breakfast on ABC Classic FM it was evident that listeners had not acclimatised to Clive’s particular style of presentation and humour and he continued to polarise the audience with as many detractors as devotees.”
Which would seem to be a great reason for keeping him!
Mike Dinn – Canberra
Posted by Mike Dinn on 22-Jan-2005 at 5:51 pm
Dear Marc,
Thanks for this opportunity to add my appreciation to Clive Robertson for his morning program on ABC Classic FM. Clive has “kick-started” my day for the past 3 years and that is no easy task! I will miss his individual approach and droll humour. I have no doubt that listeners were polarized into detractors and devotees. Clive was refreshingly different – on occasions even more refreshing than the morning shower. Between the ABC and 3mbs-fm 103.5 I can listen to classical music 24 hours a day.
When I first listened to early morning ABC Classic FM it was solely for the classical music presented. More recently it is for the company of Clive. Over the break, Emma Ayers has done a really great job presenting and I have particularly enjoyed her innovative segments introducing “Porgy and Bess” and “Madame Butterfly”. I now look forward to listening to what Paul Bevan has for us in the early morning and hope also that ABC management will provide other opportunities for Clive to get back together soon with his large family of devoted listeners.
Posted by Bruce Livett on 23-Jan-2005 at 12:48 pm
I don’t usually contribute to web sites but Clive’s disappearance compels me to speak out. Mornings are so dull without him. He was such a delight in this world of suffocating political correctness.
Clive, please come back……I miss you!
PS..Where are all his other female fans? Speak up! Let him know how you really feel about him…
Posted by Pam Kelly on 23-Jan-2005 at 6:11 pm
While I appreciated Clive’s deep love for Australia and the epople within it as a whole, I did not appreciate his off-hand insults about women, gays, Catholics (I’m none of these), and any other group he chose to vent his feelings on. Not relevant, Clive. I think that he did not fit into Classic FM at all. Almost anybody else seems better to me.
As to the views on the rather strange programming decisions, I quite agree. We have few enough radio stations in Canberra and this is the only classical one. If I want to listen to popular music I have an alternative, but not classical.
Posted by Hilary on 24-Jan-2005 at 9:39 am
The Producer
ABC Classic FM
Dear Sir/Madam,
I cannot express my disappointment when Clive did not return to Classic FM in January after the Christmas break.
I, along with many of my friends, thoroughly enjoyed his witty and quirky style for many years.
He is sadly missed and leaves a void at the start of our day.
I sincerely hope that a suitable spot is found for Clive within the ABC where we can continue to listen to him.
Sincerely,
Helen Wagner
Forster, NSW
Posted by helen wagner on 24-Jan-2005 at 10:05 am
I nearly cried when I realised Clive was not returning for 2005!! My parents and I use to compare notes on his morning comments each day when we got home. He was the one person I could stomach in the morning, and his dry sense of humour made a great start to the day. He is going to missed HUGELY. Now I’m in the dismal process of trying to work out what to do on my drive to work each morning as I no longer have Clive to keep me company. He got me hooked on Classic FM each morning but now I’m going to have to say goodbye and find something else to help wake me up in the morning. We’re going to miss you Clive!
Posted by Simone on 25-Jan-2005 at 8:51 am
My wife and I are devestated at the loss of Clive Robertson. If Margaret Throsby were to leave that would be the end of ABC Classsic FM for us, and we are are out of range of the city classical music stations.
Posted by Edgar Bowen on 25-Jan-2005 at 9:05 am
Not satisfied with the explanation from John Crawford re: the ‘unofficial dismissal’ of Clive Robertson! Devotees are every bit as important as detractees. Politically correct fanatics do not appreciate tongue in cheek humour and we the ‘devotees’ must pay because they ‘the detracors’ are heard more loudly. Hope to hear from Clive again somewhere soon!
Posted by Eileen Rigby on 25-Jan-2005 at 10:19 am
Am somewhat consoled over my sense of loss at Clive’s departure by discovering I am not alone. In addition to what has already been written I would add that along with his language fluency, vast general knowledge and wicked wit, I am already missing those magic moments with Margaret just before 9.00am each day; their repartee was priceless. Perhaps both Margaret and Felix are missing Clive as much as we. Some folk truly are irreplaceable.
Posted by Judy Steck on 25-Jan-2005 at 10:37 am
Can someone ask Clive to tell us where we can find him and when…and could the abc comment on whether he will have a future role
Posted by Helen Hopkins on 26-Jan-2005 at 8:16 am
No Clive in the morning?
Surely this is an early April fool joke by ABC?
Amongst all the doom and gloom on the TV morning programmes, the ‘plasticized’ commercial radio there was one lone voice commenting, in his own humorous and unique style was ‘our Clive’. His droll comments in everything form life to the classics will be missed.
I am sure that the new presenter is a jolly nice chap but I find his prattle annoying and his voice just doesn’t match presenters such as Clive.
Back to the CD collection and thank God for 4MBS
Posted by John Wesley on 26-Jan-2005 at 8:16 am
Waking up in the morning used to be fun, with the radio alarm tuned to Clive, his quirky sense of humour and irreverant but good natured banter & comments on all things ABC. They were 3 1/2 hours of “classic” enjoyment culminating in 3 minutes of scintillating “discussion” with our Margaret. While he may not have been everyone’s cup of tea he introduced many younger listeners to the joy of classical music in a way that they understood. More than any presenter he shared his life with his listeners, from his roamings to his constant battle with Lorna! We will miss you sorely, Clive! Let’s hope the ABC stays with the classics. There are more avid listeners out here than they appear to realise. We do not want to be lulled to sleep (alas, not possible these days!) with a hotpotch of pseudo classics that grind the teeth. One more change and we may be ex-listeners!
Posted by Barbara Tanner on 26-Jan-2005 at 10:14 am
Being the current affairs junkie I am, I wasn’t a regular devotee of Clive’s Classic FM Breakfast show – but I did turn to him regularly when the News got just too depressing, as the only foil to it and means of validating my cynicism. He first became my on-air friend 20 years ago on ABC local radio in Sydney (was it the breakfast slot then too? I think so) and I have revelled in his anarchic political incorrectness every time I’ve listened to him since then. Like (nearly) all your other respondents, I hope the ABC has the sense to appreciate the talent and appeal Clive offers them, and quickly finds another slot to match his calibre, but the interminable blanding-down of all their output does not bode well, I fear. BRING BACK CLIVE! (Are we a fanzine yet?)
Posted by Tony Troughton-Smith on 26-Jan-2005 at 1:06 pm
Where is Clive? For weeks I have been waiting for Clive’s return to brighten up the morning. Getting up early was something to look forward to but now I have heard his contract has not been renewed because he has ‘continued to polarise his listeners’. Shame, shame. What a draconian reaction to someone who had the courage of his convictions!
Christopher was pure delight, Guy a joy to listen to … but Clive was human.
Please bring back Word of the Day and please please bring back Clive.
Posted by Rasjida Durham on 26-Jan-2005 at 2:10 pm
Dear Marc,
I’d like to thank you for your information about Clive and the chance to read all the comments that express clearly how much he will be missed. I think it’s appalling behaviour of the ABC to treat him so shabbily and I hope your page results in a greater awareness of how foolish they have been to let him go.
I always looked forward to hearing his show – such a relief to hear honest, intelligent comments that reflected a genuine understanding of the human condition (sadly lacking in those “overly cheerful” announcers).
I also miss hearing the conversations Clive had with Kel, Felix and Margaret. I hope Clive is aware of how much he is missed.
Posted by Judith Howard on 26-Jan-2005 at 10:58 pm
Thank you Mark for this opportunity to express my great disappointmnet in the way the ABC appears to have treated Clive and Classic FM. It was one of the highlights of the day for me, but no longer can I listen to it. It is great to see from this site that so many people feel the same way. I do hope that Clive surfaces again soon and that the ABC cuts back on the frivolous “chatteriness” it is promoting. Come back Clive
Posted by Derek Duparck on 27-Jan-2005 at 11:10 am
Clive is a National Treasure. An Icon, even?
Is a new TV programme out of the question? I shall follow him wherever he goes!
BRING BACK CLIVE. BRING BACK CLIVE. BRING BACK CLIVE.
Posted by Katherine Halsey on 27-Jan-2005 at 2:15 pm
It is comforting to see that I am not alone in my horror at discovering Clive has been axed. As an ex-pat Australian working abroad (but spending long periods each year in Australia) Clive (followed by Margaret) has been a constant companion, either live or 9 hours later by download. Why was he so good on Classic FM? Why did he make us giggle wickedly? Simply because he didn’t take himself or life too seriously and was happy to laugh at himself. That’s always been one of the great things about Australians. Or have I missed something in all my years abroad? Have Australians lost their healthy larriken spirit and gone all repressively PC? Or has the ABC lost the plot?
My getting-up routine has always been in this order: on with Clive, off to pee, and on with the tea. Now its just pee and tea….
Marc, thanks for posting these letters – I hope you can eventually send them to the ABC to show them that Australians are not the numb and boring fluff-balls they seem to think they are. Maybe it will help them reconsider bringing back Clive to an audience that really does appreciate him. At the very least send them to Clive – I am sure he would appreciate the support!
Posted by Eric Warrant on 27-Jan-2005 at 3:50 pm
Alas, poor Clive. I knew him well!!
I can only add my support to the positive views of Clive expressed here, and hope that we will hear him again soon.
As for Paul Bevan, I know it’s only been a week, but the view of my wife and I is that it simply isn’t working. The stereo was set to turn on at 0530 hours each weekday, and the enjoyment of Clive’s humour, his love of the music and prodigious knowledge accompanied my wife and I in the car on the commute to work.
There is only one Clive!
Commercial radio? Forget it! The alternatives, especially the giggling Angela Catterns, are simply not in the same league.
I say we band together and import these CDs from Canada!!
As for ABC Classic FM, well now I guess, “It’s just not on!”
Posted by Gary Speechley on 28-Jan-2005 at 1:56 pm
Words cannot express how sad I am that Clive is no longer presenting the breakfast program. I have listened to him from way back when he was on ABC years ago. The shocking devaluation of talent, experience, wisdom, knowledge and expertise in favour of the mediocre by the ABC should be mourned by us all.
I am afraid that I will be deserting ABC Classic FM in the mornings after a liftime of listening. Its just not possible to start each day feeling like a Year 7 student in a non elective music class being dished out ‘tasty’ bits and pieces about composers and music to try and capture my interest. Clive demonstrated a depth of knowledge and understanding and a love of music which enriched us all.
We can only hope that he is being rewarded for his talents elsewhere, and that we find out where that is soon.
Posted by Anne Wisdom on 28-Jan-2005 at 5:07 pm
I’m not an early morning person myself, so if there is any truth in Clive wishing for a change away from the early morning slot, I can fully understand this. However, I still miss him so much it hurts.
He had such appeal and not just to single middle-aged-plus mums like myself. Because of Clive’s lively banter, my two 15-yr old boys actually wanted to listen to Classic FM;..no more though.
I do hope that Clive is healthy and in good spirits. I want him to know how much he is missed. The marketing folks at ABC have made a huge mistake. The Clive supporters always were an enormous silent majority, we had no reason to demonstrate our presence as we were happy with our lot, especially when rounded off with those priceless chats with Margaret. As usual it is the knockers who are more vocal and get themselves noticed. I was embarrased to recently read about a phone-in caller’s verbal annihilation of Clive on Media Watch in Nov last year – I could have given him support then had I known.
I still hope to meet Clive one day – so much he has said about a myriad of topics aligns with my thoughts and feelings.
I wish this charming man the very best for his future.
Karen
Posted by Karen Grant on 28-Jan-2005 at 5:18 pm
It really is very pleasing to read, how many poeple out there share my disapointment at the loss of such an Icon of Australian Media.
Posted by Mark Hadley on 29-Jan-2005 at 10:25 am
Re Clive:
SIGH, WEEP, SOB….PINE…
Posted by Vivienne Fraser on 30-Jan-2005 at 8:06 am
I, too, am spluttering with rage at our sudden Clivelessness, like Warren Mitchell who, this morning, waxed lyrical to Margaret about Clive & their brilliant chats (I personally think they should’ve had an overlapping hour).
I’m also furious with the ABC management for playing their stupid game of trumpeting a new arrival without explaining or acknowledging the departure. A new form of Terra Nullius, or 1984-style doublespeak! We are not children: we noticed he was gone!
And, yes, Paul Bevan may be a lovely guy — nay, a veritable saint upon this Earth — but he definitely ain’t an ABC-FM announcer. I can no longer listen in the mornings.
I, too, have emailed management, but I may not get a reply. I was a teensy bit rude. I suggest that each of us, EVERY DAY, sends an email to them with the text BRING BACK CLIVE!, preferably in 32pt. I certainly shall.
(& a slight note of dissent; I’m generally happy with the station content. I like Drive! I love the Piazzola & the world music & the jazz & the unusual, contemporary stuff which is still good, serious [or jolly] music. I’m purist about some things, but I like variety & surprises in my music. & I can live with the sad fact that some of the air time will be taken up in catering to those people who seem to like Wagner, Schoenberg, et al.)
BRING BACK CLIVE! BRING BACK CLIVE! BRING BACK CLIVE!
Posted by Phil Zachariah on 31-Jan-2005 at 10:33 am
Having been on holidays for most of January, I only picked up in a recent comment in the Age Green Guide that Clive was not coming back. Now we’re back at work and school, my wife, two boys (13 and 9) and I are scratching around for what to listen to in the mornings. Despite his sinus problems, Clive had such a mellifluous voice that he was always a joy to listen to. (And strange that Paul Bevan should be a singer, and yet not have a decent radio voice.)
And Clive’s knowledge of music and passion (especially when a load of new cds or, better, hdcds arrived)was a always a joy.
In the end, it was Clive’s enthusiasms, and his dry world view (with which, of course, you don’t have to agree)that made him so deeply human. And having to listen to jaundiced comments about management, women and the state of the world was always a small price to pay for that.
Posted by Andrew Hiskens on 1-Feb-2005 at 12:22 pm
Like so many others I only just realised that Clive had gone for good. I kept hoping he was still on holidays but this morning I went to Google and found Marc’s great site and all the interesting comments from other Clive friendly people. I agree with all that’s been said. I listened for a short time to Paul Bevan this morning but he just doesn’t have the same appeal. Like others, I also enjoyed the repartee with Margaret just before 9 am.
I just won’t go to Classic FM in the morning now – play a CD instead or go to RN. Maybe if we all bombard the
ABC we might get Clive back – if he will come back. Do you think those at the ABC who are responsible for our disappointment would ever read this?????
Posted by Jennifer Caird on 2-Feb-2005 at 1:02 pm
We have been eagerly awaiting the disappearance of recent Breakfast presenters and the reappearance of Clive Robertson. Only now, Feb 2nd, do we learn that he is not coming back.
Yet another nail in the ABCs coffin.
We will no longer tune in to Breakfast. Over recent years, we in Adelaide have had to endure very ordinary TV news and weather presenters (current presenters very much excepted). Our strong impression was that Adelaide was looked on as a convenient hospice for the ABC’s superannuated foreign correspondents.
In the theatre world, they have the right idea. They hold auditions where people with unsuitable voices are eliminated before being foisted on the public.
Posted by Pat Crowe on 2-Feb-2005 at 3:45 pm
I have forwarded the link to this article to the listener enquiries section of the ABC in Adelaide, after being invited to offer my thoughts again after the program had settled down (now just over a week). We’ll have to wait and see if it manages to bring back Clive, so we must all pray, including atheists like myself!
Like Jennifer Caird (above) I am now keeping up-to-date with national current affairs by listening to Radio National in the mornings, which at least I find interesting.
Posted by Marc Fearby on 2-Feb-2005 at 7:28 pm
ABC Classic FM must bring Clive back if he will come back otherwise they will lose alltogether the listeners who are not happy wih his replacement.
Stewart Wylie.
Posted by stewart wylie on 3-Feb-2005 at 11:54 am
Like the foregone comments, I was absolutely devastated not to hear Clive anymore. Our mornings have lost their lustre. The only consolation is to find the likeminded appreciators on this site.
Posted by Herlinde Cayzer on 3-Feb-2005 at 12:55 pm
Dull, grey, flat, soul-less. That is what Classic FM mornings have become. A simpering, obsequious, marketing-driven effort to cheer the listener’s mornings with pleasant music complete with commentary trying to sell the sounds in case we weren’t convinced.
Not even a ghost of Robertson seems to linger on. Robertson on Classic FM was like having a person in the room – someone to challenge a notion, evoke the senses, stir an emotion, inform.
Now there’s just a voice on the radio; press the button, tune out, walk away.
Did anybody else ever wait until CR had finished his sentence before turning off the radio when getting out of the car or leaving the house?
I have never thought I’d be a fan of anyone – much, much less, write about it.
Posted by Chris Jefferis on 3-Feb-2005 at 9:22 pm
As soon as I heard on air from Emma Ayres last year, that Clive was not coming back, my husband and I did a web search and found a news item reporting that he had been sacked. I e-mailed the ABC and received the standard reply – that one about the detractors etc.
I have read all of the comments and interestingly there is only one detractor amongst them. No person I have spoken to is happy to see him go – we are all still in shock and are grieving the obliteration of his wonderful persona and dry wit – his downright honesty, his professionalism in presentation, his great voice (agree it is strange that Paul Bevan, though reputedly a singer does not have a radio voice, let alone a presenter’s voice or style). I could go on – he was bigoted; but that was part of his warts and all charm and yes, he could also take the criticism he occasioned from his colleague Margaret Throsby. The pair had such a great relationship and I have noted famous overseas guests on Margaret’s program commenting on how much they enjoyed the few minutes banter between the two before her program commenced.
We have lost an original thinker and entertainer. I no longer listen in to the program. Yes, it is turned on in the mornings; but nothing about it interests me any longer – and no, I do not stay and listen to the end of a sentence before walking outside or whatever, any more. It is all so flat and banal.
BRING BACK CLIVE indeed!!!
Posted by Janette Marshall on 4-Feb-2005 at 3:14 pm
Dear Marc and fellow thinkers and sufferers,
Here is a media search we did soon after we found out about Clive (before Christmas). Will paste and print it here for all to read. We are hoping that the message that has been given in one of the above postings is true – and that Clive will return – and soon!!
Classic Clive off the air
December 11, 2004
CLIVE Robertson was yesterday dumped by the ABC just hours before he was due to attend the broadcaster’s Christmas party.
Instead Robertson was told to pack his cardboard box of belongings as his contract would not be renewed after three years on air at ABC Classic FM.
As the office Christmas party played out yesterday afternoon, Robertson was at home playing on his plane simulation game, having “a nibble of chicken” and was leaving “setting fire to the ABC for tomorrow.”
The veteran radio and television presenter said while the sacking came as a surprise, it was just another step in his career.
The Daily Telegraph
Janette Marshall
Posted by Janette Marshall on 6-Feb-2005 at 10:38 am
Those familiar with the movie “Good Morning Vietnam” will appreciate this analogy: Adrian Cronauer = Clive Robertson (an acerbic wit like a breath of fresh air each morning); Lt Steven Hauk = Paul Bevan (boring, boring and boring) and Sgt Major Dickerson = ABC Management (vindictive, totally short-sighted and completely out of touch with the listening audience).
Posted by Mike McCoy on 7-Feb-2005 at 11:13 am
I am rather angry that Clive Robertson was terminated, particularly in this classless fashion. I live in Washington DC, we often listen(ed) to his breakfast program on the internet, the stupidity of ABC Management in their handling of this issue is almost beyond comprehension. I have just listened to the “new” breakfast program and was not impressed with any of it. Must Australia continue in this manner – can they get anything right?
Yet another source of irritation is their continued failure to avoid live streaming 24/7, almost every country on earth does this except Australia. Same comment as above. The world is interested in you, take note of it and DO SOMETHING about it.
Posted by Ian H Newbold on 7-Feb-2005 at 12:57 pm
It’s not surprising that Clive is no longer hosting the Breakfast show. The ABC web site contains profiles of all ABC presenters, and Clive’s profile included his resume. If I recall correctly, he has never stayed at a job longer than 3 years. Maybe that’s why Kel’s last Word of the Day was journeyman. http://www.abc.net.au/classic/breakfast/stories/s1261959.htm
Posted by Ann Mills on 8-Feb-2005 at 2:26 am
I have just found this site and am so pleased to read the comments from so many like-minded but SAD Classic FM listeners. I, too, was devastated at the pre-Christmas departure of Clive and let the ABC know my views. Similarly, I received the reply that many others did. I no longer laugh out loud in the mornings or scream “you’re mad, Clive” but loved the humour, nevertheless. I learnt so much from listening to Clive’s chats with Felix and looked forward to “it’s three minutes to nine…hello Margaret”. How dare ABC management ruin our early mornings…and I agree with the sentiments about Paul Bevan. He’s just not Clive!!!! I hope Clive realises how much we miss him.
Jane Mac.
Posted by Jane Macdonald on 8-Feb-2005 at 1:28 pm
I am still grieving. Does anyone know where Clive is now? I have followed him from radio station to station. to TV and back to radio. Unfortunately I now live in a regional area and may not be able to hear him if he is on a metropolitan network. I hope that you are reading all the comments on this site, Clive. We definitely miss you.
Posted by Susan Birrell on 8-Feb-2005 at 6:22 pm
we are all of the same opinion clive is a national tresure where is he we miss him for a station that holds it self up to be diffrent then sacks someone who is diffrent well how does that work,mornings are so boaring with out clive, the new chap just does not cut it.
bring back clive or at least find out where he is and let us all know someone, anyone help !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! and where was margret when clive needed her ??????
Posted by gary tea on 8-Feb-2005 at 9:21 pm
What a breath of fresh air to find a site devoted to the demise of Clive – my mornings have become a barren wasteland of tedium without Clive to ….well encliven them! It does make me despair of where this country is going – brought on by John Howard’s grey ordinariness. I doubt the detractors outnumbered the supporters in this debacle – and in any case what does this prove – the contented hoards were unlikely to write in support of a presenter who they believed to be of such quality that plans for his departure would be properly announced – and so allow a proper uprising by the people. I guess Clive was right about the ABC management – an unimaginative bunch who’ve lost the plot – they should be put back on the Mardi Gras float the ABC has so obviously plucked them from.
Posted by George Schnapper on 9-Feb-2005 at 3:06 pm
While searching for Clive I cam across this wonderful transcript of an interview he did with John Howard – it’s really only when your’e confronted with Howard’s words in the written form that you realise just how disingenuos the man is: http://www.pm.gov.au/news/interviews/2001/interview1465.htm
Posted by George Schnapper on 9-Feb-2005 at 3:28 pm
When we first heard Paul Bevan, we thought Christopher Lawrence had returned. Paul shows promise and should be given a go.
Don’t know why Clive has gone but life moves on. Don’t think the same thought would apply to Margaret Throsby – what a lady what a broadcaster.
Posted by Allen Gaze on 9-Feb-2005 at 6:06 pm
The ABC has lost not only their best host of any of their programs …excluding Margaret Throsby, but they have lost me and, I suspect, many many more listeners.
4MBS is looking very good these days and I urge more people to make the switch.
Posted by Graham Weston on 10-Feb-2005 at 2:36 pm
Paul Bevan has improved beyond recognition since he took over and will, I’m sure, become an excellent presenter on Classic FM. However that isn’t the point. There should be room for presenters like Paul AND for Clive. The ABC, once again, has shown that it has no imagination and no feeling for what large numbers of people want. I do know a “detractor”, or at least I’ve read his comments on the ABC Perth guestbook, but he seems in a very small minority. I guess ABC management is being disingenuous about the reasons for Clive’s departure: I would guess he just didn’t fit with their idea of what a Classic FM broadcaster should be.
Posted by John R on 10-Feb-2005 at 8:53 pm
I was googling yesterday to see if Clive had a new job and found your website. I live in Williamsburg, Virginia. That I only discovered Clive in October didn’t make me any less devastated when he was abruptly taken off the air in December. It’s a gift to have such a sense of humor and quick mind. My 16 year-old son and I miss him. We have a fine classical station in Norfolk (WHRO), but no commentator like Clive. I’m just hoping he gets employed somewhere soon and that his show will be accessible from the internet. Shirley
Posted by Shirley Livingston on 11-Feb-2005 at 4:00 am
“Paul Bevan intends to make getting out of bed as uplifting as possible.” so said his introduction. I am still waiting to be uplifted. Alas, I find each program more irritating. I find it astounding that our national broadcaster should see fit to have the “Classics” presented in such a dull, mundane style, especially following one of the best presenters we have ever had. In the past I enjoyed listening to this program every bit as much for listening to Clive as listening to the music. He was entertaining, honest, called a spade a spade, witty, very knowledgable, and he had a great voice for the job, even when he was suffering a bout of sinustis. We are very disappointed in the ABC and we miss you Clive. We wish you well and hope you have found a project that you enjoy. I absolutely agree with all the other positive comments written about you in this list and sincerely hope the ABC will take note of them
Posted by Sid S on 11-Feb-2005 at 7:20 am
If you want to complain to the ABC about this issue (as I have) then it is as easy as following this link to the contact page to send an email complaint.
Posted by George Schnapper on 11-Feb-2005 at 11:52 am
I’ve listened to classical music programmes in NZ, the UK and now Australia for 30 odd years and can honestly say that Clive Robertson was unique. His individuality and erudition was a joy to listen to as well as the camaraderie with his cohorts. As to the Drive programme, the choice of music and the voice commentating are not those I choose to hear. The ABC management should take into consideration Clive’s (and those of the above correspondents) opinions.
Posted by Alison Pearson on 11-Feb-2005 at 3:28 pm
Cheers…..R.
Posted by Richard Whelan on 13-Feb-2005 at 1:40 pm
Thanks very much Richard, will certainly e-mail you. Interestingly “Limelight” our ABC magazine which lists all of their radio shows, TV shows, art critics, CDs DVDs new releases etc. hasn’t mentioned a single word about CR; hoping we may all forget he existed, perhaps? Not this listener. No-one could replace that man.
I was quite excited when I read your letter thankyou.
Cheers,
Janette Marshall
Posted by Janette Marshall on 15-Feb-2005 at 2:20 pm
BRING BACK CLIVE!
Mornings have become a dreary desert without him. We also miss the conversations with Margaret – they were unmissable.
Posted by Bill and Rosemary Phillips on 15-Feb-2005 at 6:15 pm
Oh dear, on the very day I finally get broadband installed, I find that Clive’s gone! I first heard him on 2BL Breakfast back in 1974 and became an instant fan. I left Australia as an expatriate in 1978 (pre-internet days), so only managed to hear and see him (when he was on TV) during my infrequent visits back home. And then came the Internet and the joys of streaming audio, so I was able to hear him on a regular basis again. However, my latest dial-up service was agonisingly slow and the audio spent more time buffering than playing, so I hadn’t been listening to anything on-line recently. One of the first things I did when my broadband was connected was to try to tune into Clive again. What a disappointment! I do hope he comes back – given the ABC’s track record with Clive over the years (”sacked” and re-hired later several times), I guess anything’s possible.
Posted by Colin Jolly on 16-Feb-2005 at 10:43 am
I thought this may be of interest – a friend of mine has bought the book produced by the ABC of Kel Richard’s “Word of the Day” and she keeps phoning me and reading out little quotes from Clive, as all of his comments to Kel are included. It really cheered us up and we shared a good few laughs – had to stop her, she’d have read the lot to me…will definitely buy that book. VERY Clive Robertson. You can “hear him” saying his Cliv-isms.
Hope your feed-back re another possible program spot for him with the ABC when it comes, is positive Marc.
Cheers,
Janette
Posted by Janette Marshall on 16-Feb-2005 at 10:58 am
We too miss Clive Robertson very much in the morning. He had become part of our morning ritual. We do hope that the ABC will be able to accommmodate his special wit and charm – perhaps, as some have suggested, in the afternoon.
Posted by Ruth and Clive Monty on 16-Feb-2005 at 9:57 pm
I thought that hearing a different presenter on Classic FM was simply some “fill in” for Clive while he was on holiday, or the like. Finding that he had been sacked simply infuriated me. I thought that the ABC still had some small amount of common sense in their management. I suppose not!
Posted by Gary Hoggard on 16-Feb-2005 at 11:18 pm
Well, I have been faithfully telling my wife that Clive must have been taken suddenly ill, like happened late last year and that ANY DAY NOW, we will have him back. Now I discover that this is not the case. I don’t know if I’m game to tell my wife this news…
What a catastrophe. It’s mostly Clive, of course, but it’s also the whole show. Kelvin (my suggestions for word of the day will never come up now), Felix having a chat (at least he is still programming).
Now, I can’t say that I actually LIKE the new bloke, but he is better than anything else I can listen to in Hobart of a morning. If I can’t have Clive then at least let me have Emma (and that accent that makes me go weak at the knees, what a babe to listen to in the shower!!!). She chatted with Kelvin and did a really good job of fitting in, filling the unfillable hole.
Well, I’ll just to have watch ABC kids in the morning now!
Posted by Mark Hovenden on 17-Feb-2005 at 12:00 pm
I really thought Clive was on an extended holiday only to find out that we have a new and by the looks of it permanent presenter in the morning. What a shame. I liked Clive and his good humoured criticism of Management.
Waking up to Paul Bevan does not tempt me to get up at all. The only reason I do is to turn off the radio.
The ABC morning program won’t be the same without Clive and I am afraid I have to find another station.
Posted by Irene Inveen on 18-Feb-2005 at 3:54 pm
RE: Marc Fearby’s comments
Hi Marc,
Thanks for your feedback on my show. I’m very sorry that you haven’t enjoyed my program. I’ve taken your comments on board, but I thought I should clarify a couple of points regardless.
The reason why I’m so enthusiastic about the repertoire I play is that I program about 99% of it and I only program what I personally enjoy (and therefore believe what others might enjoy too). If I really don’t like a piece, or don’t think it has something that others will appreciate, then I won’t play it on my show. Then again I have a pretty open mind, so I like a lot of pieces!
Regarding record sales, I think that most contemporary composers would be glad of the extra income; if I can bring their music a little closer to general audiences then I think everyone benefits: composers get exposure and audiences get to hear new works.
Hope you enjoy future programs.
Thanks,
Julian
Julian Day
Presenter “Late Nights”
ABC Classic FM
http://www.abc.net.au/classic
Posted by Julian Day on 19-Feb-2005 at 12:27 am
Ah, fresh Clive from Canada! Could my weekend be made any better? :-)
Posted by Marc Fearby on 19-Feb-2005 at 6:23 pm
Was it “Moffy” that did it for you, Clive? Mornings just haven’t been the same.
Posted by Ian on 19-Feb-2005 at 10:58 pm
I have removed ABC classic FM from my presets.
No Clive, then we do not need them either !
What a low way of getting rid of people because they happen to have a mind of their own
Posted by hugh landheer on 22-Feb-2005 at 11:42 am
I’m tempted to do the same Hugh – I no longer feel the ABC is “my” ABC as the corporation continues to crow about. Its becoming more and more a grey and boring reflection of the kind of Australia that John Howard has delivered for us – his lies, half truths and spin are beginning to permeate through society including the ABC. As an example last Thursday’s Green Guide (17/2) had a lenghty item on Clive’s demise and an air head from the ABC is extensively quoted perpetuating the myth that there were more detractors than supporters that led to the decision (while at the same time acknowledging that detractors are more likey to write in and complain). In a horrifying Orwellian twist she went on to say that after the sacking Clive was given the opportunity to go on air and say farewell to his listeners but he declined! Well fancy that. Where does the ABC find these people?
Posted by George Schnapper on 23-Feb-2005 at 9:29 am
Visits to Australia were always enhanced by the opportunities to hear Clive when waking up in a hotel room. Since ABC put some programmes online Clive was a continued pleasure for daily downloading on to my Minidisc recorder. This is still possible for a number of other ABC programmes such as Jazztrack which is far ahead of anything we have in New Zealand, this is still possible. But Clive (and Felix) were a joy but I can imagine the decision to dump Clive would have been taken (or recommended) by some fresh faced kid, straight out of Management School. Concert FM (the NZ equiv) is heading the same way. A certain crassness in the presenters who learned their trade at the local rock station. They just cannot shake it off.
Posted by Ross on 24-Feb-2005 at 6:17 am
Re George Schnapper’s comment on the ABC woman’s article which said they gave Clive Robertson “the opportunity to go on air and say farewell to his listeners but he declined”!
It shows just how insensitive to his feelings they (ABC management) were. I can’t imagine Clive (or anyone for that matter) wanting to go on air after the apparent shock and face-slap he suffered. I personally and selfishly wish he had – but can understand perfectly why he didn’t.
Time and again he had said how much he loved his job. Classical music presentation with his friends Felix, Kel and Margaret integrated into conversations was perfect for him – and us.
I tried really hard to listen uncritically to Paul Bevan for a while this AM – to see if he had improved. He hasn’t. Yes Paul is a pleasant man but he has big shoes to fill. I am pleased for the (few) people on this list who have found pleasure in this replacement; but wonder if your memories are a tad short? The music is obviously still there (thanks to Felix) – hence the program SHOULD be similar – but the difference in presentation and natural wit and intelligence beggars comparison.
Please ABC – bring back Clive!!!! You really are losing so many very unhappy listeners. It shows – it isn’t just the music, or even the information given about it!
Posted by Janette Marshall on 24-Feb-2005 at 11:46 am
Where is that freedom of speech we all seem to be so proud of ?
What did Clive not have that we do ?
His ‘alergy’ only seemed to develop worse after he started at the ABC
Posted by hugh landheer on 24-Feb-2005 at 2:53 pm
There are definite personality types born into the world. I’m guessing that Clive is of the Jungian temperament INFP and it is only a matter of time before this type will blow it. They are fascinating because of their ability to entertain, whilst taking the piss of all and sundry including themsleves. He is of a group which actually change the world of ideas and can burn out doing it. Clive has had a few burn outs and resurrections. I hope he knows that we are better for knowing him. I hope he comes back to our circle soon.
Posted by Artemis Potsis on 25-Feb-2005 at 5:32 pm
“Comment by Julian Day on 19-Feb-2005 at 12:27 am”
Shouldn’t he still working at that time?
Cutting to the chase. I’ve been Listening to Clive since I was in year 11 2002, every morning on the way to school. I even listened to him during the HSC exams and he really helped in calming my nerves before every morning exam.
I remember sending an email to classicfm commenting on how Clive’s persona was so “homeresque” (yes homer not humour hahaha…*silence*) The reply I received consisted of:
“blah blah blah…we thank you for your support…blah blah…we are targeting younger listeners…more blah…Clive’s favourite show is The Simpsons.”
Not having Clive on in the morning is like not having Homer Simpson in The Simpsons
James Ho
Posted by James Ho on 26-Feb-2005 at 11:48 pm
I quote Marc “Ah, fresh Clive from Canada! Could my weekend be made any better? :-) Comment by Marc Fearby on 19-Feb-2005 at 6:23 pm”
Thanks to Richard and Marc – I know what you mean!! The downloads are just magic!! We have had visitors yesterday – but listened all afternoon and it really was delicious. Now all we need is for the ABC to re-employ Clive and life would be just great.
Here’s a quote for those who are still smarting
“Good morning! My name is Robertson. You can be my friend – if you behave” (cue music). :-)
And another referring to Rossini’s “Theiving Magpie” overture. ” Australians would use another adjective when talking about a theiving magpie – so here is the overture to the “Asterisk Magpie” by the Berlin Philharmonic conducted by Herbert Don’t Mention the War” :-)
Don’t you miss him?
Posted by Janette Marshall on 28-Feb-2005 at 8:09 am
Please, bring Clive back for the morning shows!
Posted by Jade Nimbus on 2-Mar-2005 at 11:13 pm
I miss u 2, Clive
Posted by ro har on 3-Mar-2005 at 1:09 pm
If we can’t get Clive back, any chance the ABC can coax Christopher Lawrence back? Paul strikes me as very nice, but his blokey manner grates on me. He talks too much.
Posted by gorden kohe on 3-Mar-2005 at 8:32 pm
I too still miss Clive’s humour and erudition. What still rankles is the shabby treatment of Clive and the flimsy excuse that Clive “continued to polarise the audience with as many detractors as devoteesâ€? “My ABC” never surveyed my opinion, nor that of anybody else I know. I now boycott the ABC.
Does anybody have news of what Clive is doing now?
Justin in Canberra
Posted by Justin on 5-Mar-2005 at 8:54 am
I have just now set up a Yahoo group to serve as a place where you can all chat about Clive in an online forum. The address of the group is http://groups.yahoo.com/group/robbofans/.
In order to post messages to this group, you must first join, but before you start panicking, it’s totally free. Simply click on the “Join This Group” link at the top-right of that page, then click on the “Sign Up” link at the “Yahoo! Login” page. You can deselect the “Yahoo! Mail” checkbox, as it is not necessary to take the free email account simply to join the Robbo Fans group.
Hope to hear from you!
Posted by Servant of Clive on 5-Mar-2005 at 2:29 pm
Please does anyone know where Clive is now. Has he moved onwards and upwards or is he brooding in a dark corner in Broken Hill. Like most everyone else I think it a pretty shabby act on the ABCs part not to give Clive a farewell or at least maintain a shadow of him within the website. Clive has had me as a loyal fan since his late night news show a few years back and like so many others. I’ll always embrace a dry wit that so many people are incapable of appreciating for what it is, the manifestation of genuine brilliance.
Posted by Jason of Adelaide on 8-Mar-2005 at 6:30 am
I have just returned studying from overseas, being homesick for among other purely Australian delicacies, Clive Robertson. Imagine my disappointment now…
There’s a unique warmth, humour and unpredictabilty in Clive Robertson, like a slightly mad but always amusing neighbour. Unlike so many boring media people, he was REAL, and is a living treasure. Come back Clive!
I fondly recall the time when a particular delightful piece had him disclose “makes me just want to dance naked all over the place”- because he expressed in his own inimitable style exactly how the music felt…
Where are the Clive CDs?
ABC Management, bring back OUR Clive Robertson!
Posted by Saidie Mir on 8-Mar-2005 at 9:14 pm
The comment by Saidie Mir on 8-Mar-2005 has really made me laugh – I remember that day – I love the simile to having ” a slightly mad but always amusing neighbour”.
You are right Saidie, he was slightly mad; but there is a fine line between that and genius and he was the latter too :-)
Posted by Janette Marshall on 9-Mar-2005 at 9:47 am
Curmudgeonly Clive – a delight in the mornings, his ascerbic comments on the ABC management have cut too close to the bone.. . . I can only agree with those who miss him terribly.. . . .
Posted by Michael Shelley on 13-Mar-2005 at 2:33 pm
Clive’s demise seems so surreal…a Cliveless ABC seems like a shrinking back to some monotone plain of politically correct reality!!! I, for one, don’t want that particular kind of dreary,plastic reality!!!I want a man who can give a daily weather report some bite…who dares to question tired weather cliche’s like “early morning fog, then clearing”…(surely early morning fog implies it will clear)…Clive pointed out the annoyingly obvious and then made us laugh…But Clive’s piece de resistance must be those days when he was unwell…especially those days involving Mondayitis…Clive could wallow in total misery and sparkle in the process…He could voice the unvoicable with a mischievous cackle…So many times, (I drove a long distance to work)and wished I could “turn right at Oak Street” instead of left…but I was too busy laughing at Clive to put the thought into practice…So many times I arrived at work, anxious to share with a work colleague, the latest droll utterance from Clive…Classical reverie spiced with moaning mayhem…How delightful!!! How human!!!!
BRING BACK OUR CLIVE!!!! BRING BACK OUR CLIVE!!!! BRING BACK OUR CLIVE!!!!
Posted by Pamela Adams on 14-Mar-2005 at 8:27 am
Since Clive’s disappearance, the mornings are dismal. I really want to like Paul Bevan however he doesn’t have the sense of irony nor the same slanted view of life that I shared with Clive. Someone please put Clive back on air – soon!
Posted by Annette Hillman on 15-Mar-2005 at 5:24 pm
I miss him lots too.
Bring back Robertson. The ABC is boring noise without him.
Posted by Alan Jones on 15-Mar-2005 at 6:29 pm
Ugh! I’m in shock, I finally get my new computer delivered (after months of headaches), and log on to enjoy some Clive, only to find he’s gone! And I did try the other guy, I lasted 1 minute and 14 seconds. It is simply too horrid to be true. Living in Japan (which has a very poor classical music scene), I really relied on ABC to provide me with education and enjoyment. I guess I will have to search out some other stations.
It truly is a shame that we have not yet learned to appreciate the unusual, or accept a dissenting voice. Are we really so bland and unimaginative as to require all our presenters, personalities, politicians and the like to express only the party line? I hope not, for although I live OS now, I am proud when people ask me where I’m from, and I look forward to returning to Australia some day. I only hope that I am not disappointed upon my return.
Clive, if you read this site, then I’ll take this opportunity to say that I take my hat off to you. You made the mornings amusing, and the music truly lively. I hope you find happiness in whatever you try your hand at next.
Posted by Sheri Chan on 22-Mar-2005 at 12:15 am
I thought Clive was on holiday over Christmas but e-mailed the ABC mid-january to be told that he was on the outer and no longer employed by “OUR ABC” I didnt realise just how many people felt like I did at his demise, until I read your website. If Clive does get to read this website he will know how much his listeners enjoyed his programme. I loved his late-night show in the mid eighties, and was delighted to hear him back on radio Classic FM. Where are you Clive, and are you happy with your present lot? BRING BACK CLIVE.
Posted by Pam Sharrock on 22-Mar-2005 at 6:38 pm
How are you Clive ? Rested and well, I hope.
The mornings now are grim without your excellent classical choices as I’d grown used to hearing a well-known piece alongside a not so well-known one. Tracks like ‘A Midsummer’s Night Dream’ and ‘Grande Tarantelle’ constantly remind me of the early morning effort you put in. I used to listen to you and Jonesy in 75 and to have heard you and Margaret in addition to the great music has been good value. To think that we may not hear that cat-and-mouse chit-chat again makes me sad.
I do live in hope, however, so I wish you well with your next venture. How about an evening session this time ?
Posted by Warwick Dredge on 22-Mar-2005 at 9:26 pm
Some have it and some don’t – not many were like Clive (I don’t know anyone like him) and he is still obviously sorely missed. I have tried and tried with Paul Bevan – but he doesn’t make the grade – the music is still chosen by Felix – what is missing is the “Clivefactor”. A vital ingredient! Please ABC, reinstate Clive – somewhere.
Posted by Janette Marshall on 25-Mar-2005 at 9:07 am
Some people supposedly complained that our Clive talked too much in between music segments, but in my opinion were intelligent comments, some “sarcastic” comments were obviously not liked by management. I also miss the chat between him and Margaret Throsby just before 9am. Clive also said one morning that he went on this really long walk (a couple of hours), and I thought if he can do it so can I, and I have been doing it on and off for a while. We miss you Clive, please come back. (Paul Bevan might be a nice person but he drives me up the wall!)
Posted by Barbara Champion on 27-Mar-2005 at 11:34 am
Dear Clive, It seems that you went into the MATRIX without being plugged in. Where are you? My mornings are not the same without you!
Miss you, Zina
Posted by Zina Costanzo on 31-Mar-2005 at 12:18 pm
Clive is Clive. I looked forward to mornings with him. I hope he is well and enjoying himself. Maybe if he knows, and “they” know there are some listeners appreciative of a Clive, he may return.
Posted by Wally Tench on 1-Apr-2005 at 1:56 pm
There’s only one Clive. The blend of Clive, Felix and Kel was the way we started our day. ABC has lost a treasure,.. loved and looked forward to each day by countless listeners.
Sorry but the “new” guy is like waking to yesterday’s soggy cereal,..the milk gone sour. It’s a real groan.
Clive was refreshing,..witty, interesting,..he woke up the brain in the morning! He made us laugh,..ponder and learn something new. He most definitely wasn’t boring.
BRING HIM BACK ABC! You’ve lost us in the meantime.
Phil and Gail Hudson
Posted by Phil and Gail Hudson on 2-Apr-2005 at 11:04 pm
After all this time I still miss Clive in the mornings and just by chance found your site and all these comments from fellow fans. I too contacted the ABC and got the standard answer although not that he been sacked which I suspected might have happened because of his somewhat derogatory comments. Who doesn’t criticise the boss from time to time? I didn’t always agree with his opinions and often told him to “shut up” but I did admire his gutsy style and he was often extremely funny. Wherever he is I wish him well – and would really appreciate knowing that he is OK. It would be great to have him back!
Posted by Elspeth Richings on 3-Apr-2005 at 8:15 pm
While he’s away, he plans to {finally} write his memoirs..”WAR & NO PEACE”. A copy of which I’ll have to have. I loved his “NEWSWORLD” late-night program, during the late 1980’s…they were absolute gems! Hopefully we’ll hear him again, till then I have both the audio tapes released by the ABC in 1986 & 1988, with C.R at his irreverent best, with Caroline Jones, and the long suffering Margeret Throsby. They will have to do until the return of the “real thing”!
Posted by Eric Brooks on 5-Apr-2005 at 1:53 pm
I’ve just returned from some time away and amm appalled to discover that Clive is no longer with Classic FM–what a blow! What a loss! I enjoyed his acerbic sense of humour, his ability to speak his mind, and the few minutes of fun with Margaret just before 9am. As for Felix and Clive’s choice of music-wonderful! Where has the classical music gone? Why do we never hear from Felix now? Why the Bulgarian dissonance promoted by Paul Bevan? Paul seems to belong to the school of “tell them what they are going to hear,let them hear it, then tell them what they have heard”. That is a process I find very irritating,along with his prattle. BRING BACK CLIVE!
Posted by LeonieLewington on 5-Apr-2005 at 2:00 pm
I have just been talking to a colleague about how much we miss Clive and as it was my lunch hour decided to do a Google search to see if I could find out what Clive was up to. I am so pleased to find so many of you feel as I do. I first discovered Clive when I came to Australia in the 70s and was delighted when he became the Breakfast presenter. It is true that although the music is the same, I really don’t care about listening to Breakfast anymore. I am a “Friend of the ABC” but it is becoming harder and harder to like the ABC when management behaves in such a cavalier fashion as they did with Clive. Does anyone know what he is doing now, please?
Posted by margaret brown on 8-Apr-2005 at 1:54 pm
To Margaret Brown,
Yes I know what he’s doing now, he’s taken some time off to write his memoirs…{ see my previous post-99.}I also miss him, hopefully he’ll turn up again in the not-to-distant future.
Posted by Eric Brooks on 10-Apr-2005 at 4:28 pm
What is this insanity of abc breakfast without Clive Robertson? Some things are simply classic and now we have another testament to the fact that the truly great are never recognised in their lifetime. Brilliant acts are lifetime experiences, recognised, and not subject to the whims of fantasy. For heavens sake abc, get him back without delay; the man is irreplaceable.
Posted by Caroline Miller on 11-Apr-2005 at 7:45 am
Clive was the ABC’s answer to the shock jocks of commercial radio, showing how to be irreverent, icoclastic and entertaining without rancour and abusiveness.
His humourous asides are legendary and I must say I miss them very much.
So now we have more beige blandness on Classic FM, how boring. But I guess if Clive is writing his memoirs then we can all expect a good read. Good luck to him
Posted by Roy Stannard on 12-Apr-2005 at 11:09 am
I always dreaded the day when Clive would vanish in the manner in which he did. Farewell and thank you to a “classic”!
Posted by Deirdre Cleary on 12-Apr-2005 at 12:44 pm
Thanks Eric for that info
>> Yes I know what he’s doing now, he’s taken some time off to write his memoirs…
It seems we are all missing him and I have just read the new postings. If only he is reinstated on the ABC, I promise to say “I love Paul Bevan” every day for a year :-)
Posted by Janette Marshall on 12-Apr-2005 at 3:04 pm
I have just written and deleted several responses,and finding each one totally inadequate for the purpose of expressing what the loss of Clive means to each morning, have given up. (My second attempt on this site). Please Bring Back Clive – or get Clive to start a website so we can chat with him. Please. We need the language policeman to keep us literate and the music policeman to keep us on the right track. (No pun intended).
Posted by Anne Wisdom on 12-Apr-2005 at 5:46 pm
I am so pleased I found this page. With the comment I got from the ABC I thought I was the only fan of Clive Robertson. I miss him terribly, he really set me up for the day. He made me laugh and I loved him bits with Margaret Throsby. I’m afraid I have turned away from hte ABC in the morning, I found a local station with lots more music and less talk. I mean what was “Now this music you just heard for about 30 secs you will be hearing the lot in Oh I don’t know, 10 minutes time. Please! What ever you are doing Clive I hope you are enjoying it. Would love to read your memoirs.
Posted by Pamela Mowbray on 12-Apr-2005 at 8:14 pm
Ode to Clive Robertson
Won’t you come home, dear Robbo, won’t you come home
I moan the mornin’ long,
I’ll do the cookin’ honey, I’ll pay the rent
Aunty’s done you wrong!
Remember the rainy eve’ that
She shut you out with nothin’
but a fine tooth comb (he,he)
Yes, I know that you’re not to blame,
and ain’t it a shame
dear Robbo, won’t you please come home.
Miss you,
Jessica Rabbit
Posted by Zina Costanzo on 13-Apr-2005 at 12:14 pm
It was bittersweet to discover this collection of tributes to Clive from like minded ABC Classic FM listeners. He has been gone for three and a half months now and I still soemtimes do an aural ‘double take’ thinking I catch the sound of his much missed voice in my mornings. Not only was he a joy in his own right but his exchanges with Margaret and Felix and references to the ‘Great Beaumonte’ added a wonderful dimension of intimacy and whimsy to ABC Clssic FM now completely gone! I hope Clive reads and savours every word of this page and that he is doing something fulfilling in his life now (have you thought of a film of ‘Mates of the Kurlalong’, Clive?). I wonder if the supposed other half of that ‘polarised’ morning audience has keyed anything like the same number of commendations to the ABC for their cowardly, inelegant action!
Posted by Jan Pittard on 13-Apr-2005 at 1:35 pm
I spoke to a couple of fellow classical concert goers the other day – amazingly, incredibly, they didn’t like Clive – “Too arrogant” (shows their questionable intelligence) and thought Paul Bevan “Dreadful too”.
So – who IS the ABC pleasing? None of us, obviously.
Yes, his references to “The Great Beaumonte” were good too – and when I hear Damien’s name a wave of sorrow and nostalgia sweeps over me – as for his other on-air friends – we all miss them too. Of course we’ll buy the memoirs; but let’s have our friend back!!! If he does come back – we must all write and email and phone the ABC with our approval – we, the silent, suffering and ignored majority.
Let’s face it – the ABC had their eyes wide open when they hired this uniquely colourful, entertaining and controversial man. They should have hacked the “detractors” – they expected them in the first instance. If my memory serves me correctly, they even did an article saying just that in the old “24 Hours” magazine. Clive was also well prepared for the announcement of the Top 100 winners of the Piano competition….no way would he just leave like that!!
Posted by Janette Marshall on 14-Apr-2005 at 1:22 pm
I used to wake up with joy in my heart and excitement as I tuned in to my friend Clive in the mornings. Now, I just wake up. In 2002, after the birth of my first baby, he helped me through the early morning hours as I learned, what was to me then, the frightening new art of breast-feeding. I finally got the hang of it. Clive never offended me or my baby … instead he helped protect us from as much of the ugliness of this world as he could … Bali bombings, Iraq and US WMD insanity, … and then there was Beslan. Thank you Clive for holding on to the simple and beautiful things in life and sharing them with us. My (now) 2 1/2 year old likes to play “orchestra conductor” with a chopstick, which I think is beautiful; thank you for your part in helping to foster her toddler-sized interest in classical music. I have no wish to be unkind to Mr Bevan, but as others have said … the challenge was always going to be before him, and somehow, I just don’t think I’d feel as comfortable breastfeeding in his presence. We miss you Clive, thank you for your warmth, wit, sincerity … and i will definitely be contacting that Canadian trucker so I can hear your voice again.
Posted by Teresa Connelly on 17-Apr-2005 at 10:24 pm
Mr Robertson
And here’s to you, Mr Robertson
We all love you more than you will know
Wo wo wo
God bless you please Mr Roberton
The viola d’gamba has ceased to play,
hey hey hey, hey hey hey.
Where have you gone, Mr Robertson
A nation turns deaf ears to the ABC
Oh dearie me,
Laugh about it, shout about it
Aunty doesn’t let us choose
Ev’ry way you look at it, we lose.
Coo co ca choo, Mr Robertson
We all love you more than you will know
Wo wo wo.
God bless you please Mr Robertson,
The Word of the Day
has gone away, hey hey hey.
Hiding in your hiding place
where we can never go
Put me in the pantry with your cupcakes
What’s that you say, Mr Robertson
That it would never do?
Oh boo hoo hoo, boo hoo hoo
Miss you,
The Graduate
Posted by Zina Costanzo on 18-Apr-2005 at 12:29 pm
I remember Clive’s very first week on ABC morning radio. It must have been early 70s? The details are a bit vague, but, the first time I listened, whilst finding clothes, books and breakfast, I was surprised! shocked!! aghast!!!. “Who is this jerk?” “What is he on about?â€? “I can’t take this in the morning!â€?
By the end of the week I was hooked. I was saddened by his previous departures and overjoyed by his triumphant returns. His hand-over to Margaret Throsby had lately been the highlight of each morning. Now he’s gone again.
Mornings are much less interesting. I’m sorry Paul, but, as pleasant and sometimes informative as you are, I’ll never be hooked on your program.
The ABC was foolish to let him go. He may have offended some – I’m sure he offended me at times, but, curmudgeons like him are too valuable not to forgive.
Posted by Bob Erwin on 19-Apr-2005 at 7:53 am
Clive-a-for-ya’-dreaming
All my clothes are brown
And my hair is grey
I ain’t heard from Clive
For many a day
If he doesn’t come back
I might wither away
Oh Clive-a-for-ya’-dreaming
On such a dreary day
I stopped into a church (stopped into a church)
I passed along my way (passed along my way)
You know, I got down on my knees (got down on my knees)
And I pretend to pray (I pretend to pray)
Aunty, If he doesn’t come back
I’ll just sleep my life away
Oh, Clive-a-for-ya’-dreaming
On such a dreary day.
Miss you
Grandma Cass
Posted by Zina Costanzo on 19-Apr-2005 at 12:26 pm
Bugger!
I’ve been missing Clive for months and finally did a net search for him and found this site.
I got to like that gal with the unusal accent. She was downright elegant. And I’d like to hear more of her.
But I really miss Clive in the morning. I am a writer and it was lovely to listen to him while I was typing away and his wonderful asides with Margaret Throsby just before 0900. Jeez, she had him dialled in. What a hoot!
I can’t the new guy’s voice or twee prattling. It’s like a PC lecture.
Bring back Clive.
Meanwhile I listen to Gregorian chant on a station in Germany over the internet or play my own CDs.
I just can’t hack ABC Classical. Classical music deserves better.
Bob Murphy
Posted by Bob Murphy on 21-Apr-2005 at 8:01 am
Clive oh Clive where are you?? I can’t bear my hour and a half drive to work listening to Paul Bevan (no offence intended)- Clive had something not many have and the ABC Management need to hang their heads and realise they have made a terrible mistake!! I’m sure they could put their tales between their legs and placed Clive at a later shift (Drive would have been perfect). If this keeps going you will lose more and more listeners.
Posted by Lee Jahn on 22-Apr-2005 at 11:05 am
After wondering for months what had happened to Clive and feeling lost and adrift in the mornings, I just now have found this site and the sad news. The world is a greyer place! It has all been said in the preceding entries and I have little to add except to say what a sheer pleasure it was to listen to him in the mornings (or at any time for that matter as the late night TV show from years ago proved). Clive, if you read this, thank you. I’d tune in to any station or channel if you go public again for another dose of that sense of the ridiculous! Best wishes for whatever you’re current project is. If you can find a way to come back to us, I,for one, would be thankful!
Posted by Nell Baker on 22-Apr-2005 at 10:19 pm
We can live in hope that Clive will be back one day. I still miss the wit, intelligent and informed opinion on many matters. Most mornings was pure joy as I drove to work to deal with teenagers all day long, it set me up a treat. I could then listen to the bits I missed on the internet, nay I listened to the whole thing all over again. So how can we get in touch with the Canadian trucker?
John
Perth
Posted by John Gowland on 24-Apr-2005 at 6:50 pm
Like many others I have only in recent times discovered this site.
I will not go into the many reasons we found this program with Clive and friends so enjoyable, most have been covered in the 119 other contributions above.
I am sorry to say that whilst we have given the current program a fair trial (off and on) we have mostly moved to ABC Newsradio in the early morning period.
Perhaps the ABC would not see this as a loss of two listeners.
Posted by Ian Campbell on 26-Apr-2005 at 4:00 pm
I WANT CLIVE BACK….NOW!! I can’t bear it any longer – driving to work has put me in a very bad mood – I am not a chirpy morning person and I use to raise a somewhat small smile listening to Clive – I even laughed out loud one morning!!* This new fella puts me in a complete stupa – almost comatosed state – NOT good for fellow road users! Banish this man immediately ABC and slot Clive back in the DRIVE timeslot – I’m sure that is all it would take – he has TOO many fans for you to ignore!!
Posted by Lee Jahn on 27-Apr-2005 at 9:11 am
I hope Clive reads the above comments because he is missed so much by thousands of people. I suggest each of the above people email ABC Classic EVERY DAY saying “We Want Clive”. Perhaps if the ABC is inundated with such emails they might realise that life and the ABC is just not the same without him. How about it folks!
Posted by Barbara Singer on 29-Apr-2005 at 5:27 pm
I was so happy to have found this site about Clive
My only consolation is that so many people shared his wicked sense of humour, his vast knowledge and those famous chats with Margaret.Classic FM breakfast is not my radio station anymore Bring back Clive PLEASE. He had character and expertise and made me smile every morning.
Posted by E.Bruche on 30-Apr-2005 at 3:11 pm
Like 123, I am happy to have found this site – but there is still no real news about where Clive has got to. I agree with all the good things said about him in the previous messages. I too no longer listen to Classic FM. Tooooooo tedious. If Felix is still programming, it certainly doesn’t sound like it. At least my CDs are getting a workout.
Bring back Clive!!!
Posted by J. Lord on 4-May-2005 at 8:05 pm
My whole family were devotees of Clive’s breakfast program. One of my younger brothers was delighted when he got onto the ‘word of the day’ one morning. None of us tune in in the morning now, not worth it.
Clive, wherever you are, and whatever you are doing, I wish you all the best for the future!
Posted by Mari on 5-May-2005 at 11:21 am
My friend and I (both fans of Clive and his wit and comment) have come up with the perfect solution to Clive’s re-appointment. Would the pairing of he and Margaret on the air solve the problem. She with her exceptional talents and he with his dry wit and observations of us all! Give it a try and hear the reaction ABC
Posted by d holmes on 19-May-2005 at 12:23 pm
Breakfast without Clive is BORING,it is such a sliced white bread world without him to jerk the sleep from the eyes.Perhaps this is another symptom of the blandness and dumbing down of every aspect of our lives.?I have been mourning the loss of Clive and wondering where he had gone.I do not listen to classic FM much in the morning now.Clive has such wit, humour and intelligence he should be treasured not cast aside like scrap.Lets hope someone knows the true value of the man and we hear from him again.
Posted by Kathy Linnell on 20-May-2005 at 8:44 am
I retired on the 1st of July 2004 and have had breakfast with five or six frends at 9.15am at local cafe every weekday, that was until Clive left,now we meet at 8am, come back Clive its to early to be getting out of bed
Posted by Barry Walsh on 25-May-2005 at 1:59 pm
Robertson was one of the very few announcers worth listening to on the ABC (the guy on JAZZTRACK is OK). The rest are tastless boring politically correct deadheads. The females are especially irritating. Do they all come from the same Sydney North Shore private school? Margaret was clearly intimidated by Robertson’s superior intellect and it showed in her aggression during their overlap. Despite Robertson’s faults (sometimes he was a bit too cutting) at least he was not boring and full of candied-up fake cheerfulness. He said it like it was (or at least it sounded that way) and it was refreshing. In an organisation run by public service bureaucrats there sadly can be no place for an intelligent outspoken eccentric like Robertson. He did a bloody good job on the breakfast show while he was there.
Posted by MICHAEL TAYLOR on 25-May-2005 at 8:39 pm
For the last six months I’ve been waiting for the ABC to announce when Clive will be returning from what I imagined was some kind of sabbatical when I finally got impatient, tried a search engine, found this site, and belatedly learned the outrageous news of his sacking. How could the ABC management cast out their jewel so unceremoniously? Are they mad or did someone have a personal vendetta to settle? The morning drive to work will never be the same till he returns.
Posted by David Hammond on 10-Jun-2005 at 1:42 pm
This is TOO much! I also was disturbed at the way the ABC chose to end Clive’s departure from Classic FM. It took me some time to adjust to his mannerisms, especially after the wonderful Guy and delicious Christopher, but I eventually became accustomed to his ways.
I barely survived the summer with Emma and am now overjoyed to have Paul for Breakfast. His professional and engaging delivery make Classic breakfast a delightful start the day.
Posted by Lee Wittenoom on 21-Jun-2005 at 4:01 pm
Oh dear Lee – I can’t agree with the latter part of your message. I have been overseas for some time now and was saddened on my first morning back in my own bed – not to wake up to that cheery “Good morning!” that Clive greeted us with. Dreary is too inadequate a word to describe it – mornings were exciting to wake to – wondering just what Robbo would come up with, which always involved a smile and a laugh. The music was sublime and his off the cuff wit was too good to miss. It’s difficult to believe and stomach that he really has gone.
How about that Drive spot ABC?? Many of us would be overjoyed to hear his wonderful voice again.
Posted by Janette Marshall on 22-Jun-2005 at 12:50 pm
The ABC is fast becoming impotent and bland and it appears to me that anyone who is the wrong shaped peg for the new yes-man hole gets very quietly shunted off. I’m very angry that someone with such talent and such a following can be axed in this rather opportunistic manner.
The sacking (or should I be politically correct and say the failure to renew Clive’s contract) of one of my two most favourite radio personalities reflects to me the current ongoing situation of national political interference and intimidation of our national institution.
Clive Robertson added colour and humour to my day. I loved Clive’s satirical and sooky nature, that’s what made him so loveable. Margaret is still wonderful, but she and Clive went together like a pair of comfortable shoes and now one is missing.
I am depressed daily at the way our Australian values of tolerance, openness, goodnaturedness and fairness have, since 9/11, been effectively stamped out, becaused they’ve been replaced by fear, intimidation, pettiness and intolerance.
Thankyou Marc for giving one person an opportunity for public expression, and if you’re out there Clive – hope to hear you soon again on radio.
Posted by Clare Lynch on 28-Jun-2005 at 5:31 pm
Good on you Clare!
Spot on! You couldn’t have summed it up better.
Where ever you are Clive, armies of ABC listeners mourn your passing…
Posted by Eric Warrant on 29-Jun-2005 at 11:46 pm
Good on you Clare, my sentiments exactly. I tried very hard listening to Paul Bevan and I think I have given him every opportunity to make it worthwhile listening to him. But I cannot put up with his patronising and condescending manner, his “competitions” are absolute stupid. The ABC must think we are all idots! Please give us Clive back! I miss his sarcasm too and him and Margaret carrying on before 9am. Life has not been the same since he left.
Posted by Barbara Champion on 9-Jul-2005 at 9:39 pm
I like others wish to register my disappointment at the termination of Clive,s contract what a gem fancy letting him go, I’m afraid I have switched to radio national and am enjoying it, and don’t even bother to turn back to listen to Margaret as much as I enjoyed her program, so I think you have made a grave error with the decision to axe Clive, I am hoping to perhaps hear him on radio national, does anyone know where he has gone, he is sadly missed.
Posted by joan taylor on 12-Jul-2005 at 12:12 pm
I loved listening to Clive.Such a clever and witty man. With a knowledge of Human Nature far beyond the average person. In fact you could call him brilliant.
Posted by E.O.Harding. on 17-Jul-2005 at 2:58 pm
I look every now and then at Marc’s site to see if there is any further news of Clive. Is is sad that the inevitible is happening – it is now almost a month since someone visited the site and left a message. All that could be said has been said so many times and by people who are far better wordsmiths than I – but I’ll say it again, for the record – we still miss Clive as if his departure was yesterday and nothing can fill that gap. Almost eight months later, his joyful enthusiasm, his wit and charm are still absent from the ABC morning show.
If only………?
Posted by Janette Marshall on 11-Aug-2005 at 4:02 pm
I’ve also been missing Clive (as have many of my friends). I was really annoyed when the ABC couldn’t bring itself to either give me his email address, or forward an au revoir message to him for me.
The article in The Bulletin (mid to late July 2005, “lunch with Jana Wendt” didn’t cheer me up much either.
How can we help get him back on air?
Should he start a website to which we could have access for an annual subscription?
Who knows how to reach him and reassure him that his absence is really hurting?
Posted by Lindsay Stewart on 18-Aug-2005 at 2:28 pm
What an excellent idea, Lindsay! Perhaps Clive could set up a web site to distribute a weekly podcast (I’d be happy to lend him a hand). If just 500 people subscribed for $30 a year, I’m convinced that this could easily pay for itself, and maybe even buy Clive a new trainset, too :)
Posted by Marc Fearby on 18-Aug-2005 at 5:49 pm
Excellent Idea! Robertson Web Radio. RWR.
Put my name down now for a subscription.
Only 499 to go.
TB
Posted by Tony Bianco on 22-Aug-2005 at 9:50 am
Lindsay, Marc and Tony, your comments re a RWR – great idea – but where would we find the initial 500 subscribers? AND where do we find Robbo? I thought you had contact with the management Marc. Has that situation changed? The fact that his name has never once been mentioned on air nor in “Limelight” would seem that the ABC has the desire that we will all just stop whinging and get on with enjoying the current show – which of course, we can’t.
What really worries me is his mental state, much more so than our collective mental states – at least we have suppport here if we so desire it.
I know we all feel utterly frustrated that we can’t get messsages to him…..
Janette M
Posted by Janette Marshall on 25-Aug-2005 at 10:26 am
Janette, the extent of my “contact with the management” of the ABC lies with a response from a minor functionary on behalf of the program manager (in short, somebody whose job it is to send the usual pleasantries in reply to cranks like me). However, I will reply and see if they can give me Clive’s email address, though, I highly doubt that they will do so.
As far as Clive’s mental state, my own view is that this is just typical Clive. He always seemed like a melancholy sort of fellow, though in a non-destructive sort of way. Some might be inclined to read more into it, but as a melancholy kind of grump myself, I don’t see anything to worry about. Clive is just being Clive :)
Posted by Marc Fearby on 25-Aug-2005 at 10:50 am
An answer has just come back from the ABC to the effect that we cannot have Clive’s details (not that this person even knew them, anyway). The ABC cannot pass on private details under any circumstances, and I would actually agree with them on this (even though we’d all like to send some words of encouragement). Perhaps Clive will stumble upon an uplifting sermon or two, and become divinely inspired to set up a podcast :) Let us pray…
Posted by Marc Fearby on 25-Aug-2005 at 11:39 am
I received word today, from someone wishing to remain anonymous, that Clive Robertson will be a guest on ABC TV’s “Talking Heads” on Monday the 19th of September at 6:30 PM. The news was printed in today’s edition of “The Guide”, which is a lift-out in “The Courier Mail” (a daily newspaper from Brisbane, for those that don’t know).
Pencil this one into your diaries, Outlook calendars, etc. This one is not to be missed, I’m sure!
Posted by Marc Fearby on 25-Aug-2005 at 9:13 pm
Janette, CAR [Clive Alexander Robertson] was mentioned (on air, Classic FM) three times to my certain knowledge. Once each by other presenters, and a much more emphatic one from Warren Mitchell to Throsby; “Where’s Clive? Bring back Clive!”
TB
Posted by Tony Bianco on 26-Aug-2005 at 9:00 am
When I looked in the guide (no. 145 above) the guest for September 19 mentioned and pictured turned out to be Clive James.
Posted by Ian Campbell on 26-Aug-2005 at 9:04 am
Ian, appearing at the bottom of the Opinion & Letters page in the same paper was the following correction (I should have mentioned this, also):
“An item in The Guide today incorrectly lists broadcaster Clive James as guest on the ABC’s Talking Heads on Monday, September 19. The guest will be Clive Robertson.”
Posted by Marc Fearby on 26-Aug-2005 at 9:08 am
Thanks Marc (no. 148 above)
This will certainly be one not to be missed.
Posted by Ian Campbell on 26-Aug-2005 at 2:24 pm
Tony you are of course right and I stand corrected. I do remember the Warren Mitchell interview and of course it was Emma Ayres who announced that he was not returning. I guess I just don’t actually “listen” any more – the station may be on; but I’m not, as it were.
Marc you too are correct – re the ABC not giving out Clive’s email address. Too many cranks out there and I guess it was wishful thinking that you may have an “in”. Of course if you had one then you’d have been there long ago :-)
For everyone’s interest – the “Talking Heads” program according to ‘limelight’ September program guide, (page 65) will be repeated on ABC2 (if you have a set top box, or subscribe to pay TV) on Monday at 8pm and 10.15pm and on Tuesday at 7.05am.
I do hope you are right Marc – re Clive’s mental state – I don’t like dangerous diets of “religion-only” reading. But I’m not Clive and that’s what makes him unique and special.
It’s great news anyway re the program.
Cheers
Janette
Posted by Janette Marshall on 26-Aug-2005 at 3:51 pm
You beaut ! We’re getting a chance to see that he’s still alive. Thanks for the tip, Marc, as I would have missed it.
The mornings are still the same (although Margaret’s recent expose on bullshit was a change) so life’s a bit flat. Like everyone else, I’m still waiting and hoping.
Posted by Warwick Dredge on 30-Aug-2005 at 8:19 am
This is great news! Thanks Marc I will be watching. Fortunately thanks to Richard Whelan’s efforts I now have several of Clive’s programs on my ipod and set a new one running at 6.00am each morning to be transported to a happier and wittier past.
Posted by George Schnapper on 9-Sep-2005 at 11:41 am
Did any of you catch the short promo Clive did for his Talking Heads guest spot next Monday? It (his promo)came on just before the news on ABC TV on Monday night. It really was great to see him. He’s lost a bit of weight (natural – and woulldn’t hurt his health).
I’m afraid “The Bevan” just hasn’t won hearts in this household. Many thanks indeed to Richard for keeping us sane :-)
Posted by Janette Marshall on 14-Sep-2005 at 9:44 am
A.B.C? Absolutely bloody clueless?
Is ‘different’ to be banned?
Tell that to the greatest people, composers, artists, poets etc.
They had one thing in common.
They were different!
Imagine how bereft the world would be without ‘different’?
Without difference we might be as the ants.
Be born, work, breed and die.Fun huh?
Clive you are unique!
Please stay as you are,there are very few of us who have still retained their ’sixth’sense.
Posted by Lois Benson on 19-Sep-2005 at 7:16 pm
Have you all been to the ‘Talking Heads’ page on the ABC website and left a message about Clive? Let’s see if we can get him back!
Posted by margaret brown on 21-Sep-2005 at 12:37 pm
It would seem that Clive Robertson soon will be returning to television as the host of his own show. There are no details about the show itself, which is only mentioned in passing, but it sounds pretty definite. Here’s the link: It’s ‘702 ABC Melbourne’ (SMH, 24/20/2005 2:35PM)
The first paragraph of the article is as follows (since access to it will not be freely available forever):
Former breakfast host Clive Robertson almost upstaged Virginia Trioli on her first day as host of ABC 702’s morning show. Robertson, who was ostensibly on Trioli’s show to talk about his new TV program, suggested first up the real “scoop” was that he was returning to 702 for breakfasts. Robertson was joking but some listeners misunderstood his droll repartee and the ABC switchboard lit up with people phoning in to find out more.
Posted by Marc Fearby on 24-Oct-2005 at 8:00 pm
Just wanted to wish all of you a Happy Xmas and a Cliveful New Year – let’s hope it starts with promise. I’m sure anything Clive does simply can’t bomb!! :)
Posted by Janette Marshall on 12-Dec-2005 at 5:10 pm
That Paul Bevan has not improved after 12 mths. He is still an egocentric bore. Emma Ayres was miles better ..not to mention Clive! We must keep up the comment on Paul or the ABC will get used to him and think we like him. Also, praise the ones we like. That was Clive’s problem. Only the critics wrote in.
Posted by david donaldson on 18-Jan-2006 at 12:17 pm
I must say that Emma Ayres has grown on me, and I look forward to her replacing Julian Day’s unending excursions to the asylum for the musically insane. Emma’s “greater focus on chamber music” will be greatly welcomed, too.
My clock radio is tuned to come on with Radio National each morning, and I must say, I haven’t missed Classic Breakfast, post-Clive, one little bit.
Posted by Marc on 29-Jan-2006 at 12:50 pm
http://members.ozemail.com.au/~my_abc@ozemail.com.au/Radio%20Interference/
He’s back !!
Posted by Pauline Murray on 19-Apr-2006 at 11:49 am
Re Post 160; not before time.
More, please.
Posted by Tony Bianco on 20-Apr-2006 at 9:11 am
I am SO happy to see that Clive is back! First program goes to air Tuesday 16 May at 8.00 p.m.
I intend to send an email to the ABC congratulating them on seeing the light – he is even on the cover of Limelight magazine with an article inside. I think I will suggest that when Paul Bevan’s contract is up, they just take him off air without explanation and reinstate Clive…
CLIVE’S BACK, CLIVE’S BACK, CLIVE’S BACK!!
Posted by margaret brown on 24-Apr-2006 at 12:28 pm
YEEEEEEEEHAAAAAAAAAA!I agree with Margaret (post 162). Just get him back onto the morning programme. I have not listened to morning radio since Robertson disappeared – nothing to equal him first thing in the day.
Posted by J Lord on 26-Apr-2006 at 11:09 am
I really cant believe that you all actuall liked CLIVE he was a grumpy old misonginist and knew nought about Classic music
THREE ROUSING CHEERS FOR HIS SACKING
Posted by derek on 10-Nov-2010 at 8:41 am
For what it’s worth, I still REALLY, REALLY, REALLY miss Robbo …. I hope that someone, somewhere, sees sense one day and brings him back to our airwaves ….
Posted by John on 9-Oct-2012 at 12:54 am
Even now, we still miss him. Clive, wherever you are, we wish you well.
Posted by Joan on 29-Dec-2012 at 12:31 pm
I miss Clive very very much. The belly laughs while driving were great! Have only just found this web site of Marc’s. Has anyone any news. Reading these entries from 2005 through to 2012, I can feel the enormously cavernous empty place longing to hear Clive every day.
Where is he now?
Posted by Toni Keeling on 19-Feb-2013 at 6:24 pm