Veteran newsreader Hugh Riminton 'teary' as he announces exit from Channel Ten citing family reasons

Hugh Riminton is stepping away from the news desk. 

The 10 News First anchor announced that he is stepping away from the network on Wednesday, citing family reasons and admitting he was 'teary' over the exit. 

'It is with mixed emotions that I announce today the next stage of my life. I will be leaving the mighty Ten network on October 2nd,' the 65-year-old said in a note shared to Network Ten staff. 

'One of my emotions is excitement,' he continued. 

'I got my first job as a cadet reporter aged 17. I am now 65. 48 years in daily news is probably enough. This reporter's life has given me the world. 

'I leave with nothing but gratitude for every hour of it.'

Hugh went on: 'In the coming weeks and months, I plan to support my son as he does his HSC. I also want to spend some time with my splendid Dad who is coming on 98. Every hour is precious. After that, I am sure projects will emerge to keep me busy.'

The veteran journalist thanked his colleagues and friends at Ten for their support over the past 17 years. 

'There is no one among you I am not proud to work alongside,' he said.

'I would like to thank Martin for our many discussions over recent months. I have a couple of weeks to go. The task for all of you is not to make me teary.

'Much love – Hugh.'

His departure was met with warm words from Ten's VP News Martin White. 

'Hugh is one of the finest journalists this country has produced – a reporter of integrity, intellect and humanity,' White said in a statement. 

'His work has informed Australians through some of the biggest stories of our time, and his presence in our newsroom has been a privilege for all of us at 10 News.

'For 17 years at Network Ten, Hugh has been a trusted colleague, mentor and friend. We are deeply grateful for everything he has given to our audiences, our newsroom and the craft of journalism, and we wish him every happiness in what comes next.'

Network Ten president Beverley McGarvey likewise praised Riminton for helping shape the news landscape. 

'Hugh Riminton leaves an indelible mark on Network Ten and on news journalism in Australia,' McGarvey said.

'Across an exceptional career, he has reported with courage, clarity and compassion, earning the trust of audiences and the respect of peers across the industry. 

'Hugh's contribution goes far beyond the stories he has told. 

'He has helped shape public understanding of major events, upheld the highest standards of journalism, and inspired generations of reporters with his professionalism, generosity and unwavering commitment to the truth.'

McGarvey continued: 'On behalf of everyone at Network 10, I want to thank Hugh for his extraordinary service, leadership and friendship.

'He leaves with our deepest admiration and gratitude, and with a legacy that will continue to be felt across Australian journalism for many years to come.'

The newscaster joined the network in 2009 and has held a number of roles, including evening news co-anchor, senior political correspondent and national affairs editor.