Australia Mourns the Loss of a True Icon: Maggie Tabberer

Australian television and fashion personality, Maggie Tabberer, passed away at the age of 87, leaving behind a legacy that extends far beyond her impressive career achievements. Her family announced the news on social media, sharing their grief and acknowledging the profound loss felt across Australia. "This morning we lost our beautiful mother and Nanna," one of her daughters shared, encapsulating the sentiment of a nation mourning the loss of a beloved figure.

A Multifaceted Career: From Model to Media Mogul

Tabberer's journey is one of remarkable versatility and undeniable success. Discovered by the legendary photographer Helmut Newton in Melbourne at the age of 23, she quickly rose to prominence as Australia's Model of the Year in 1960 and became the first Australian model to grace the cover of Vogue Australia. This pivotal moment catapulted her into the world of fashion, paving the way for a long and illustrious career.

From Print to Screen: A Dominating Presence

Her career wasn't confined to the world of print media. In 1963, she began writing a fashion column for the Daily Mirror, a position she held for 16 years, solidifying her status as a prominent voice in the industry. Transitioning seamlessly into television, she became a panellist on Beauty and the Beast in 1964 before creating her own daily chat show, Maggie. This marked the beginning of a long and successful career on Australian screens, during which she won two consecutive Gold Logies (1970 and 1971) as the Most Popular Female Personality. Her appearances on numerous talk and lifestyle shows throughout the 1980s and 90s, including Midday and Good Morning Australia, further cemented her place in the hearts of Australian viewers.

The Entrepreneurial Spirit: Building an Empire

Beyond her work in television and print, Tabberer demonstrated a remarkable entrepreneurial spirit. In 1967, she established her public relations company, Maggie Tabberer and Associates, showcasing her business acumen. A year later, she launched Maggie T, a plus-size clothing label that filled a critical gap in the market. The brand's success was immediate and phenomenal, with a $5 million order from the Myer group—an unprecedented achievement at the time—demonstrating both her flair for design and understanding of market demand. Her success was not only financial; it represented a significant contribution to the Australian fashion industry by providing clothing options for a previously underserved market segment. This achievement was further recognized with her 1998 Order of Australia award for her contributions to the advancement of the Australian fashion industry and her charitable work.

A Lasting Legacy: Influence and Inspiration

Maggie Tabberer's impact extends far beyond her personal achievements; she served as an inspiring role model for many aspiring models, designers, television personalities, and entrepreneurs. Her unwavering confidence, elegance, and relentless drive paved the way for a new generation of Australian women in media and fashion. She was a true pioneer, not just for her exceptional career, but also for her willingness to speak her mind and break barriers in a male-dominated industry. Her life story is a testament to the power of talent, perseverance, and a strong sense of self.

Farewell to a Star: A Celebration of Life

Tributes have poured in from across the nation, reflecting the immense respect and admiration felt for Maggie Tabberer. Fellow celebrities, journalists, and members of the public alike have shared their memories and condolences, painting a picture of a woman who was not only incredibly talented and successful, but also incredibly kind, compassionate, and deeply loved. Her passing marks a significant loss for Australia, but her legacy as a pioneer of Australian fashion and television will undoubtedly live on. The fashion industry, television, and indeed Australia, as a whole, are diminished by her passing. She will be dearly missed. Maggie's life and legacy stand as a testament to the power of ambition, talent, and a generous heart. Her memory will be forever cherished.