Michael Thomson has marked more than 45 years working across Perth news, spanning print, radio and television, with the long-serving 9News Perth anchor reflecting on a career that began in Western Australia in 1980.
Born and raised in WA, Michael Thomson started his journalism career as a print reporter at The Daily News, covering issues shaping the state. He later joined Nine Perth in 1987 as a crime reporter, where he worked on some of the state’s most significant stories, including the case of Joseph Schwab, the arrest of John Friedrich, and the 1988 Fremantle Prison riot.
After establishing himself in news reporting, Thomson moved into sport, becoming 9News Perth’s lead sports reporter and presenter. Through Nine’s Wide World of Sports, he covered major international events, including three Commonwealth Games (1994, 1998 and 2006) and three Olympic Games (Atlanta 1996, Sydney 2000 and London 2012). His assignments also included AFL Grand Finals, the Australian Grand Prix, and domestic cricket, including Sheffield Shield and one-day matches.
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During his tenure at Nine, Thomson has received industry recognition, including the Australian Sports Medal and the Dennis Cometti Award for Career Excellence at the 2019 WA Football Media Awards.
For almost a decade, he has anchored 9News Perth’s 6pm bulletin, presenting coverage of state and federal elections, the COVID pandemic, and major breaking news stories such as the Cleo Smith case and large-scale bushfires.
Michael Thomson reflects on a journalism career spanning more than four decades, becoming one of the most recognisable faces of Nine News Perth. (image – Nine)
Outside the newsroom, Thomson has hosted lifestyle programs for Nine Perth, including Just Add Water, contributed to and presented live radio on stations including 6PR, and supported community events such as the HBF Run For A Reason. He has described his career as a privilege, saying the core purpose of journalism has remained constant despite changes in technology.
“Reflecting on when I started in 1980, it’s amazing to think we had no mobile phones or computers. The technology has evolved beyond recognition, but the heart of the job hasn’t changed,”
“There is a profound joy in capturing a story and connecting with people from all walks of life. I’m still moved when a message arrives from someone I interviewed decades ago. It’s a reminder of why we do this.
“This career has been my window to the world. I have met people from all walks of life and been fortunate to witness some extraordinary and historic events. It’s a privilege to present the 6.00pm bulletin and work with the amazing team at Nine. Nine has been like a family to me.”
9News Perth News Director Michael Genovese also acknowledged Thomson’s contribution to journalism in the state.
“Thommo has seen it all in this industry, yet he still brings an incredible level of passion and energy to the newsroom every single day,”
“He is deeply invested in every story he tells. Having mentored generations of journalists, he has truly earned the unwavering trust of our audience.
“Together with our strong and dedicated team of experienced reporters and presenters at 9News Perth, we pride ourselves on consistently delivering WA’s best news every day of the year, with the stories that matter to our viewers.”
Michael Thomson is set to return to the 9News Perth desk alongside Paddy Sweeney presenting sport and Natalia Cooper delivering the weather. Monika Kos will present the Saturday and Sunday bulletins, with Tracy Vo returning to the weekend desk in the coming months.
9News Perth, Monday, January 19, 6pm, Nine Perth
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