Former ABC journalist Caroline Jones has been remembered as a groundbreaking broadcaster who embraced her role as a mentor to others later in her career.
Jones died this week aged 84.
In a career spanning more than 50 years, Jones was the first female reporter on ABC current affairs show This Day Tonight, the first woman to anchor Four Corners, and was associated with Australian Story since its inception in 1996.
Current and former journalists from across the ABC and beyond have shared their memories of Jones as a "generous" woman who broke a new path for women in Australian media.
Former Insiders presenter Barrie Cassidy said was "one of the first presenters on the ABC with genuine star qualities".
"So much talent yet so humble and dignified," he said.
Norman Swan, physician and ABC health broadcaster, said he worked most closely with Jones on Radio National's Search for Meaning program.
"Caroline had moved away from journalism to exploring how we find meaning in life. It was her journey too," he said.
"What I saw was a gritty, determined and highly polished broadcaster who knew what she wanted to achieve and did it. It was what made her very special."
7.30 host and anchor of the ABC's federal election coverage, Leigh Sales, began the evening with a poignant tribute to Jones.
"The reason you are watching a woman anchor the ABC's federal election coverage tonight is because trailblazers like Caroline Jones did the heavy lifting over decades," Sales said.
"Her list of firsts for a female reporter are too lengthy to mention, but along with her journalism, she was a great encourager of her colleagues and we pay tribute to her incredible public service, her grace and her impeccable character."
Many others who she worked with, mentored and inspired took to social media to share their tributes.
