Australian actress Jacki Weaver, the third wife of veteran broadcaster Derryn Hinch, shared an emotional tribute to her former husband at his state funeral in Melbourne. Hundreds of media and entertainment figures gathered on Monday to farewell Hinch, who died on July 10 at age 82 after a prolonged health struggle.
Weaver, who was unable to attend due to filming commitments, sent a recorded message. She began by acknowledging Hinch's past relationships, humorously addressing his former lovers. "I want to start by acknowledging sincerely and warmly all the women that Derryn loved and who loved him in return. Hello," Weaver stated. She then quipped, "In the immortal words of Steven Spielberg, 'We're going to need a bigger boat.'"
Hinch, who was married four times, was known for his high-profile romances. His most recent partner, former actress Lynda Stoner, was among the mourners. Weaver recalled her son Dylan's early impressions of Hinch, describing him as looking "a bit odd" in his attire of beige slacks, unbuttoned silk shirts, gold chains, and a navy blazer with a red rose.
Weaver credited Hinch with teaching her the importance of honesty, integrity, and standing up for her beliefs. "You were intelligent, passionate, cheerful and loving, as well as obstinate, grumpy, impossible and frustrating with a self-destructive streak which mystified your nearest and dearest as to where it came from and we loved you for all of it," she said, fighting back tears as she concluded her farewell to Hinch, whom she affectionately called 'Jobie'.
The state funeral, held at the Timber Yard event space in Port Melbourne, was for the lifelong atheist. An Australian flag draped his casket, surrounded by red roses. Hinch's goddaughter Ellie O'Connell performed the national anthem, while Rhonda Burchmore sang.
Colleagues and rivals shared memories of Hinch, with some noting his addictions. Former television producer Dermot O'Brien recalled Hinch's own words from his autobiography: "I admit two passions - three if you include wine. Those combos have cost me shitloads of trouble, and some have cost me a job." O'Brien added that Hinch "loved women. He loved the company of women, and his many romances are well documented."
Darren James, a long-time friend and colleague, described Hinch as having lived a full life, stating, "Some people pass through life without leaving a ripple, he created tsunamis." Colleagues Denis O'Kane and Tony Tardio spoke of Hinch's well-known animosity towards child sex offenders. Tardio remarked, "There will never be another like him, even his name was unique." He also noted that Hinch "did it all," including being a journalist, presenter, author, senator, and prisoner, adding that "drama followed him everywhere - even to his first wedding. And then he went on to marry three other times."
Labor MP Danny Pearson attended on behalf of Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan. The service concluded with a standing ovation before the final song, Frank Sinatra's 'That's Life,' a track Hinch often used to sign off his radio program. Hinch began his media career in New Zealand before moving to Australia, where he became editor of The Sun and later a prominent talkback radio host. Known as the "human headline," he embraced his reputation for outspoken and controversial opinions. His passing prompted tributes from various public figures, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Angus Taylor.