Sarah Tomlinson has died suddenly after suffering anaphylactic shock. Sarah worked her way up to become Chief of Staff for ABC Mildura-Swan Hill in Victoria, beginning her career at age 14. (Source: globeecho.com)

While on annual leave, Tomlinson suddenly fell ill, shocking colleagues and friends who have since described her as “generous,” “deeply passionate” and a “shining light”.

Originally from South Australia, the broadcaster worked at community station Radio Adelaide before hosting shows for ABC radio in SA and in Broken Hill, New South Wales.

In 2018, she was appointed Chief of Staff at The Mallee ABC station, four hours out of Adelaide.
The broadcaster had a passion for community and local radio, presenting music, current affairs and emergency coverage, according to her friends.

ABC Managing Director David Anderson has honoured Tomlinson’s contribution to the corporation.

“Sarah was respected and liked by her colleagues in Adelaide, Mildura and across the ABC community,” he said in a statement.

“Sarah cared about her colleagues and supported them through real challenges.

“Her loss is a huge shock and our hearts are with her family and friends.”

Colleagues and friends have shared their memories on social media, calling her a mentor and industry leader.

Tomlinson was an “incredible radio practitioner and trainer who was always calm, rational and kind”, according to ARN presenter Jennie Lenman.

“A fellow purveyor of bad jokes and an all-round awesome human being who always had your back,” journalist Tyrone Dalton said.

“Sarah loved her craft and loved to share that passion with so many people; journos and the audience. You’ll be dearly missed.”

“A big ABC family will dearly miss our great friend Sarah Tomlinson,” journalist Christopher Testa said.

“Sarah had the right joke or pun for any moment and loved getting on the tools to film reporters’ first live crosses.

“She was a great supporter from when I walked into @radioadelaide wanting to learn the ropes.”