Vale: Rob Brown

Veteran Seven News cameraman Rob Brown, has died, aged 62.

“RB covered some of the world’s biggest stories for Seven over the last three decades,” said presenter Rosanna Mangiarelli.

“He was tough, brilliant and award-winning, those closest to him thought the cancer was the only thing that could bring him down.”

Brown covered some of the world’s biggest news stories from the Afghanistan, Iraq and East Timor wars, the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami, Nelson Mandela’s death, Schapelle Corby and eight Olympic Games.

7NEWS chief reporter Chris Reason travelled with and covered many stories with Brown.

“RB was a giant of his time – a one-man news machine. Name a big story you can remember in the last 30 years, chances are Rob shot the pictures,” he  told The Advertiser.

“One of his last jobs was the crash of MH17 in Ukraine. He was walking among the wreckage for days. He was detained by Hezbollah militants one time; I reckon they gave him back when they realised who they were dealing with.

“Fearless, gruff, tough and tattooed; I seriously thought the cancer didn’t stand a chance.

Sadly, I was wrong. He will be missed.”

There is some sad news for our own newsroom with the passing of legendary 7NEWS cameraman Rob Brown. RB covered some of the world's biggest stories for @Channel7 over the last three decades; he was tough, brilliant and award-winning, a legendary newsman gone too soon. #7NEWS pic.twitter.com/5zftrIq20j

— 7NEWS Adelaide (@7NewsAdelaide) March 21, 2024

On Instangram Chris Kenny said, “Shattered to hear this news. I worked with Rob in South Australia and overseas from the late 1980s – he shot a lovely story with me just last year. A brilliant cameraman, but also could fix anything, handle anyone, provide comfort to those who needed it and could smell bulldust and ego a mile away. Made a great life for himself and his family, and helped more journos and citizens than you could ever imagine. Gruff, tough, supremely competent and reliable. From his Adelaide base, established himself as world class. He shoulda been winding down now to enjoy retirement. Condolences to Vicky and the family. Such terrible news. RIP Rob Brown.”