Donna Demaio has been a senior journalist, editor, and broadcaster at 3AW for the past 28 years, covering news and entertainment across the heart of Melbourne and contributing to the station’s national network.
Donna generates stories across local and national events and is highly respected and admired for her diligence to track down the best stories that are amongst the thick of things, from who’s just landed down under to the biggest and best events on around the city.
Donna chats to Editor in Chief Melinda Sullivan
Why did you choose a career in journalism?
Donna says, “You just can’t shut me up. My mum turned to me when I was about ten and said, “You need to get a job where they pay you to talk.” I am perennially curious – about many, or maybe even most, things. Being a journalist means you get to ask questions.”
How did you begin your career at 3AW?
“I studied interpreting and translating at university, then did my teaching diploma followed by studies at Melbourne Radio School. I went for a beach reporting job at Radio 3AW, but the program director had abruptly changed his mind about even having such a reporter. I felt drawn to doing a heap of work experience at 3AW and was offered a cadetship in 1992. A couple of months later I was editing and reading news bulletins.”
Who was the first person you interviewed?
“No idea whom I first interviewed. It was a constant stream of politicians, police officers, and union leaders, in the early years. Then, when I became an art and entertainment reporter, (in addition to general news), I found myself crossing paths with famous peeps and celebrities.”
What type of stories are of interest to you?
Donna says, “Refer to answer of question one. Basically, a broad cross-section of stories fascinates me. I have covered politics, courts, travel, entertainment, arts, general, fashion, food, sport. Get the drift? However, if there is any maths involved, I’m stumped and lose interest. Fast.”
What has been the most difficult interview so far?
“I love a challenge. The very nature of radio journalism involves being an “instant expert” in any given field or across a particular topic for that brief period during which you are writing “the next story”. That’s exhilarating and also daunting, daily. Then there was grumpy Harrison Ford and disinterested Hugh Grant. They were difficult.”
Who has influenced you during your career?
“I am enthralled and inspired by wonderful writers. I am fascinated and in awe of those who stick with the profession even though it’s outrageously competitive and super tough. I have a soft spot for genuine, kind, thought-provoking, supportive, and interesting broadcasters.”
What is your interview style?
“I’d like to think my style is conversational. I endeavour to ask questions that I figure the public would like the answer to. I try to be respectful while teasing out revelations, interesting facts, insights, and so on. I do want the goss but don’t delve into gutter journalism.”
Name three people who have left a lasting impression during an interview.
“Clint Eastwood has the softest hands. He’s a softly spoken gentleman with a twinkle in his eyes (he was 81 when we chatted). It was very special being in the same room as the Dalai Lama. I was able to ask a question, but to this day, I can’t recall my query nor his answer. And nearly every time I cover a story at the Royal Children’s Hospital, I cry.”
Who would you like to interview that you haven’t yet?
“He’s getting better with age, so yeah, I hope one day Brad Pitt and I can chat. Lots of questions.”
How has the pandemic impacted your work?
“Radio news is an essential service so I’m still researching, writing, and reading news. But naturally, my attendance at a host of events, launches, unveilings, and so on has stopped. Obviously, my travel writing sideline has also temporarily halted. I’ve caught up on a lot of Netflix and Stan. However, I am devastated for all those negatively impacted by the pandemic.”
Donna’s outstanding personality and ability to get that “scoop” interview makes her a must at any media/press conference!
Interview by Melinda Sullivan, words by Donna Demaio
