Across a remarkable career spanning four decades, Heather Ewart is one of Australia’s most respected journalists. From her early days growing up on a farm in country Victoria to reporting from the power corridors of Canberra, London, Washington and Brussels as a senior political correspondent, Heather’s work has shaped the way Australians understand the world.
In recent years, she brought her storytelling home as the beloved host of ABC TV’s Back Roads, celebrating the spirit of rural communities across the nation. After years of travel and tales, Heather retired from Back Roads last year, leaving behind a legacy of authenticity, curiosity and connection while maintaining her deep love for regional Australia.
Last year marked the 10th anniversary of Back Roads which acts as a vital voice for regional Australia by showcasing the resilience and stories of small, often remote communities
Heather Ewart spoke to Have a Go News from her Southern New South Wales home.
“I’m actually not retired; I’m doing lots of different things. I’m just not with the ABC anymore or Back Roads,” said Heather.
“It was a tough decision because Back Roads was my baby, but stepping away felt right. In television — and really in any career — it’s important to choose your timing and go out on a high. Marking the 10th anniversary of Back Roads felt like the perfect moment,” she said.
Ewart said she had signed up for another year but following a car accident decided to go out on the 10th anniversary of the show.
“I’d been in a bad car accident at the end of a film shoot about 10 months ago. A guy fell asleep at the wheel and drove into me in New South Wales.
“My whole left arm was smashed from top to bottom — the humerus all the way down to the fingers — and I’ve still got a frozen shoulder.”
“That, along with having had two run-ins with cancer — both successfully treated — really gave me pause for thought about what else I might want to do in life.
“I’ve loved Back Roads and believe deeply in what the show does, but it’s incredibly demanding: lots of travel, long hours, and time away from family.
“I’ve made wonderful friends and had amazing experiences, but for all those reasons, I felt the time was right, even though it was a tough decision to make,” said Heather.
Stepping back from Back Roads has given her the flexibility to explore new interests, with a particular passion for supporting and helping fundraisers.
This year she has been appointed as the ambassador for Probus which marks its 50th anniversary.
The organisation is an international association for retired and semi-retired individuals and thrives in Australia as a community built on friendship, fellowship, and social connection.
The organisation’s name combines the words “Professional” and “Business,” while also drawing from the Latin term meaning honesty and integrity.
With about 1300 clubs in Australia and more than 90,000 members across the country, Probus remains proudly non-political, non-sectarian, and non-fundraising, offering people a welcoming environment to enjoy social activities, guest speakers, and outings that foster lifelong learning and camaraderie.
“My mother was a Probus member after finishing work at my uncle’s farm machinery business in Victoria, so I already knew the country branches.
“Through a friend, Josh Arnold — who I featured on Back Roads — I was invited to become an ambassador. I thought, why not?
“I’m happy to support anything that brings people joy, connection, and community.”
Research shows that joining clubs and groups in retirement leads to better health and greater longevity — the more socially connected you are, the better you tend to thrive.
“I think the difference with Probus, and the reason it’s lasted to celebrate 50 years, is that its membership remains so strong,” said Heather.
We discussed how difficult it is to cater for people in many parts of regional Australia due to the remoteness. We both agreed that these communities probably need Probus more than anyone. Staying connected is important, especially when distance makes social interaction harder.
“In the city, I’ve seen firsthand how lonely people can get — even our neighbours in Melbourne, where we have a house, you can tell they’re craving company.
“That’s why clubs like Probus are so important to help people get involved and stay connected, though it’s often easier said than done in some country areas.”
Have a Go News suggested to Heather that Probus consider a regional online club for people in remote areas. Many on large properties can’t easily travel but still need connection. Engaging with others of a similar age and shared experiences could make a real difference.
“I think what I’ll be advocating during this 50th anniversary year of Probus is the importance of making time for yourself — to meet others, share ideas, and enjoy social connection.
“Probus is about taking time for you, spending it with like-minded people, and realising you’re not alone, whether you live in the city or the country. And of course, it’s about having a bit of fun — something we could all use more of these days,” said Heather.
Stop Press
Since our chat Heather has informed me that Probus head office are looking at establishing online Probus groups for Kalgoorlie, Broome and Esperance. If there’s enough interest, they’ll proceed to full branches. If you would like to join a Probus Club call 1300 630 488 or visit www.probussouthpacific.org.
