Throughout its impressive 155-year journey, The Fiji Times has been shaped by the efforts of passionate individuals who have dedicated their lives to journalism. One such figure is the late Stuart Gerald Inder MBE, a distinguished Australian journalist and editor whose influence extended beyond his years in the industry.
Recently, Inder’s three children—Leslie, David, and Stephanie—visited The Fiji Times newsroom, sharing cherished memories of their father, who remained devoted to Fiji and the Pacific long after his retirement from mainstream media. Inder served as an interim editor for the paper during the 1960s and 1970s under the ownership of R. W Robson, who also ran Pacific Publications in Sydney, which focused on Pacific region issues.
Leslie recounted how her father would step in as needed during editorial transitions, showcasing his commitment to the publication. Known for building strong connections, Inder was respected by many prominent figures in Fiji’s media landscape, including the nation’s first Prime Minister, Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara.
Inder’s journey into journalism began at just 12 years old when he and his brothers founded a local publication, the Smedley Times, selling copies for a penny. After securing a cadetship with The Sun newspaper in Sydney, Inder enlisted in the Australian Army during World War II and served as a war correspondent in Tokyo.
In 1957, he became a co-editor of Pacific Islands Monthly, which had a significant impact in advocating for independence and aiding Pacific Islands in recovery after the war. Over more than 30 years, he developed professional relationships with notable Pacific leaders.
Inder retired from Pacific Publications in 1981, opting for a quieter life, but remained active as a staff writer for Australian Geographic. He was honored with an MBE and served on various journalism committees, advocating for ethical standards.
Despite retirement, Inder continued to engage with journalism, offering mentorship to younger writers until 2013. He passed away on January 30, 2015, leaving a lasting legacy in the realm of Pacific journalism that continues to inspire future generations.
Commentary: Inder’s contributions to journalism and his deep emotional connection to Fiji highlight the important role that dedicated individuals play in shaping media landscapes. His legacy serves as a reminder that journalism can bridge divides and foster understanding, especially in times of unrest.
Summary: Stuart Gerald Inder MBE, a key figure in Fiji’s media history, was recently honored by his family at The Fiji Times, where he served multiple times as interim editor. His journey in journalism began in childhood and included significant roles during wartime and in advocating for Pacific independence. Even after retirement, he continued to influence the field until his passing in 2015, leaving behind a proud legacy.
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