FrankTorley
- Producer
- Journalist
The broadcasting career of so-called 'Mr Country Calendar' Frank Torley spanned almost half a century. He worked on the iconic rural series as reporter, producer and narrator, and a number of other programmes besides. In 2002, he was awarded the ONZM for services to broadcasting. Torley died of cancer on 27 March 2016, just weeks after Country Calendar celebrated its 50th year on air.
Screenography
Biography
Frank Torley is surely the most fondly remembered figure of the many broadcasters associated with iconic programme Country Calendar. When the gravel-voiced reporter/producer passed away in March 2016 at age 75, Julian O'Brien, who worked with Torley on the show for 30 years, argued that he was a key part of Country Calendar's growth into a programme of wide appeal, serving both rural and urban viewers.
Awards
2002 Order of New Zealand Merit
For Services to Broadcasting
2002 TV Guide New Zealand Television Awards
Best Factual Series: Country Calendar
1993 New Zealand Film and Television Awards
Best Factual Series: Country Calendar
“In horse-racing terms, I'd best be described as a stayer.”