Television news has lost one of its legendary figures today with the passing of Paul Mullins, Network 10’s long-serving state political reporter.
Mullins was a standout member of the NSW press gallery who was highly respected as a formidable journalist by politicians and colleagues.
Born at Sydney’s Royal North Shore Hospital in 1945, Mullins was the eldest of two children, with his younger sister Caroline, now retired.
Mullins started his career in newspapers before moving onto television, becoming the NSW state government reporter for 10, where he worked until his retirement.
He will also go down in Australian news folklore, following a famous clash with former Prime Minister (then journalist) Malcolm Turnbull in the Press Gallery. Turnbull, who recounts the incident in his book, encountered the ire of the seasoned reporter after trying to out scoop him on an article. As the story goes, Mullins grabbed Turnbull by the shirt and pushed him up against a wall.
Sandra Sully, news presenter, 10 News First, paid tribute to the iconic journalist after working closely with him saying, “Paul was beloved in the 10 newsroom. He was the ultimate political roundsman – completely across his brief. Always thorough and always decent.
“I was very fortunate to have worked closely with him for a couple of years. He took me under his wing when I first came to Sydney and could not have been more generous with his time and guidance.
“He was a lovely man. Vale Paul.”
Scott Mullins with his father, Paul.
Mullins is survived by his four sons, their four grandchildren and his second wife Lisa. Mullins was also father to a fifth son who passed away.
When asked by Mediaweek how he wanted his dad to be remembered, Mullins’ middle son Scott said: “as a great bloke and a good friend.”
Short, sharp and to the point. Just like Mullins’ would’ve wanted.
Pictured: Paul Mullins