Peter Andrew McLaughlin was born on October 4, 1941 and passed away on April 13, 2024. His career in journalism began when he joined The Age as a cadet journalist in 1960. When Graham Perkin became editor in 1966, McLaughlin proposed the creation of new reporting “rounds” focused on education, science, medicine, and religion. To his surprise, he was given responsibility for all four, which allowed him a large amount of freedom to pursue the news as he saw fit. He eventually became the newspaper’s chief of staff, assigning reporters to their daily tasks and managing complex rosters.
McLaughlin grew up in Albert Park and was educated at Middle Park Primary, Caulfield Grammar, and The University High School. He was described by former colleagues as a talented and kind reporter with total integrity. After seven years as chief of staff, he was sent to the UK as The Age’s London manager. On his return, he began a long stint in editorial management, where he is remembered as an expert and creative editorial manager who protected editors and reporters during budget cuts and expenses crackdowns. Former Age editor Mike Smith praised McLaughlin for maintaining editorial quality while navigating difficult financial situations.
In the newsroom, McLaughlin was known for being grumpy, but also had a wry sense of humour and was always helpful when needed. He had a prodigious work ethic and was calm and considered under pressure. Outside of work, he was dedicated to his family, the St Kilda Football Club, and reading. McLaughlin had a passion for swimming in his younger years and was a swimming coach. After leaving The Age, he worked in media relations and organized regular reunions of journalists from his era at the newspaper, keeping them informed of comings and goings of interest.
Peter McLaughlin’s legacy in journalism is remembered by those he worked with as a loyal and conscientious professional who always put the quality of the news first. He was an Age loyalist until the end and maintained connections with his former colleagues. His work as a reporter, chief of staff, and editorial manager set a high standard for journalistic integrity and dedication to the craft. Despite facing challenges such as recession and budget cuts, McLaughlin remained committed to upholding editorial quality and supporting the journalists he worked with. His impact on the Australian media landscape will be remembered for years to come.
