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Seasoned 7NEWS presenter Michael Usher has had the ultimate career in journalism.
Now as a Logie nominee, the reporter is looking back on his career spanning decades covering the world’s biggest new events.
WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Michael Usher looks back on the life of Queen Elizabeth.
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Usher’s passion for journalism began in his youth.
“I grew up dreaming of working in TV News, watching Australian correspondents travelling the world,” he tells 7NEWS.com.au.
“To the young teenage me, that just seemed like the best job in the world. I got to do that and so much more.”
Usher has covered some of the most pivotal and heart-wrenching stories of our time.
Among the most memorable were his reports from the September 11 attacks in New York.
“It was overwhelming, and I seriously thought we were on the brink of World War III,” Usher recalls.
The aftermath of those attacks led to years of war in Iraq and Afghanistan, events he says, “stay with you”.
Another unforgettable assignment was covering the Beslan school siege in southern Russia in 2004, during which terrorists took hostages and killed dozens of children and teachers.
“What I saw there left me in floods of tears,” he admits.
The journalist has also had the privilege of interviewing inspiring individuals whose resilience and courage have left a lasting impression on him.
One such interview was with Turia Pitt, a burns survivor who overcame immense adversity to run marathons and build a fulfilling life.
“I can only ask questions of amazing people like Turia and help tell their story,” Usher says. “I love that I can help tell those stories.”
Reflecting on what inspired him to pursue journalism, Usher pointed to his early fascination with news.
“I used to record and make my news bulletins on my grandparents’ radio cassette player,” he says.
“From my first wobbly months as a country cadet reporter to today, I’ve always known the impact of news.
“It’s powerful, and as an early news director drilled into me, people have a right to know. That’s your job. And still is.”
As the media landscape continues to evolve, Usher has adapted to new platforms while staying true to the core principles of journalism.
“There are now more ways to have stories told,” he says.
“Whether it’s on TV, websites, Instagram, or other social platforms, we still tell the stories the same way. They’re exciting times after some bumpy transitions into new media spaces.”
Outside of his work, Usher winds down through spending time with his family and cooking.
“My three children keep me very real outside of TV life,” he says.
“If I’m especially stressed, I’ll cook—a lot. There’s therapy in the kitchen!”
For aspiring journalists looking to follow in his footsteps, Usher has some wise advice.
“It’s a hard slog with bad hours, but it can be the most rewarding job in the world,” he says.
“You don’t always need a thick skin, but you can’t be afraid of asking questions no matter how silly they may sound.
“The truth in this day and age is tricky and hides in all sorts of shadows. You have to seek it out and drag it into the sunshine. When done best, journalism can change lives for the better and do a lot of good.
“But you have to be tenacious, curious, tough, and kind, equally.”
Usher is nominated for Best News or Public Affairs Presenter for his work on 7NEWS and 7NEWS Spotlight.
“I’ve very honoured, and it’s fun!” he said of attending TV’s night of nights at The Star Sydney.
“So I’m very grateful and excited.”
You can cast your vote here.
Watch the Logies on Sunday August 18 from 7pm on Channel 7 and 7plus.