The Fiji Times, the oldest newspaper in Fiji, has been profoundly shaped by passionate and dedicated individuals over its 155-year history. One notable figure is the late Stuart Gerald Inder MBE, an esteemed Australian journalist and editor. This week, Inder’s children, Leslie, David, and Stephanie, visited The Fiji Times newsroom to reminisce about their father, who remained deeply connected to Fiji and the Pacific, even after his retirement from mainstream media.
Inder frequently stepped in as interim editor at the newspaper during the 1960s and 1970s under the ownership of R. W Robson, who also owned Pacific Publications, a Sydney-based company focusing on regional issues. Leslie mentioned that Inder often came to the rescue during editor transitions at The Fiji Times.
A well-connected figure in Fiji’s media landscape, Inder maintained strong relationships with influential personalities, including Fiji’s first Prime Minister, Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara. Stephanie recalled a poignant moment following Fiji’s first coup in 1987 when Ratu Mara recognized Inder in a crowded elevator and sought him out for a private conversation, highlighting the respect and integrity that Inder commanded.
Inder’s passion for journalism began at a young age in the beachside suburb of Manly, Sydney, where he and his brothers launched a local publication. His journalistic career formally started when he secured a cadetship with The Sun newspaper. During World War II, he enlisted in the Australian Army and became a war correspondent in Japan.
Inder joined Pacific Islands Monthly (PIM) in 1957, serving as co-editor for over three decades. Throughout his career, he forged connections with notable Pacific leaders and became an advocate for independence throughout the region. After retiring in 1981, he enjoyed a decade-long stint as a staff writer for Australian Geographic and remained engaged in journalism until 2013, providing mentorship to younger writers.
Inder passed away on January 30, 2015, leaving behind a legacy of integrity and a profound impact on Pacific journalism, especially at The Fiji Times.
The memories shared by Inder’s children remind us of the lasting influences that dedicated individuals can have on journalism and their communities. Inder’s story is a testament to the importance of maintaining connections and the invaluable role of media in providing a voice to the people, especially in times of political challenges. His life serves as an inspiration for future generations of journalists in the Pacific and beyond.
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