Veteran news presenter Ian Ross has lost his battle with pancreatic cancer, passing away on the Gold Coast overnight.

The career of the man everyone called “Roscoe” spanned five decades.

Celeste Skinner reports.

TRANSCRIPT

Known for his sense of humour, generosity and professionalism, Roscoe has left an enormous legacy.

Ian Ross and weather man: “Ever ridden a cow?”

“I have a matter of fact-a couple of times”

“They always (laughter) I was going to say they always stand still until you try to get on them.”

He started in Radio with 2GB.

In 1965 he moved to Channel Nine, where he stayed for 38 years.

Ian Ross:”Ian Ross reporting from central court.”

There he built his reputation as a journalist and became news anchor in 1991.

After a short retirement Roscoe was back on the news desk with Seven.

In two short years he pushed Seven’s 6pm news into the top spot.

Ian Ross: “Our first news coming up at 4.30, then join me for Seven news tonight at sex (groan).”

Roscoe was a mentor to many.

Mark Ferguson, Seven News Presenter: “So generous with his time, so generous with his knowledge, an absolutely marvellous mentor for me. Such a sad day.”

And most of all, he was loved by his audience.

Ian Ross: “I’d like to thank you, our viewers, for your trust, for your loyalty, for all the support you’ve shown me and us over the past six years. I wish you all good luck and good health, so I’m Ian Ross and for the final time, thanks for your company. Good night.”

Ian Ross was 73.

Celeste Skinner, QUT News.