Livinia Nixon’s Two Decades on Air: A Legacy of Warmth and Professionalism
For countless Melbourne families, the evening news wasn’t quite complete without Livinia Nixon’s familiar presence delivering the weather. Now, after two decades in the role, Nixon is set to sign off from her weeknight briefing, closing a significant chapter with the Nine Network.
Her decision comes not from fatigue or waning enthusiasm, but from a desire to shift her focus. Nixon, now 50, wants to spend more time with her family—especially as her youngest, Ted, prepares for high school alongside older brother Henry. “I’ve been on air for more of my life than I’ve not,” she joked after the announcement, a sentiment that captures just how intertwined her career has been with her life.
Nixon’s journey with Nine began in 1997, a time when her school friends could hardly imagine their shy classmate taking the television stage. At just 22, she joined the legendary ‘Hey Hey, It’s Saturday’, stepping into the spotlight and quickly becoming a household name. Her foray into television wasn’t random; childhood appearances in TV ads and a neighbor’s encouragement via casting agency Artist Services nudged her onto the path. Mentors like Steve Vizard and Glenn Robbins, along with the Nine crew, played crucial roles in nurturing her early career.
More Than Just Weather: Nixon’s Versatile Television Career
While Nixon’s face became synonymous with Melbourne’s weather, her versatility stretched far beyond the nightly forecast. She graced a range of programs, from travel shows like ‘Getaway’ and ‘Postcards’, to game shows such as ‘Temptation’, and festive broadcasts like ‘Carols by Candlelight’. Her resume reads like a highlight reel of Australian television, including stints on ‘Today’, ‘Weekend Today’, ‘Things to Try Before You Die’, and ‘Plucka’s Place’.
It’s no surprise then, that Nine’s national news director Hugh Nailon described her contribution as “immeasurable.” For two decades, Nixon delivered not just data, but warmth, expertise, and an unmistakable professionalism. She became a comforting fixture in living rooms, her friendly demeanor making even the stormiest forecasts seem less daunting.
Memorable Moments: Live Crosses and Unexpected Adventures
Ask Nixon about her most memorable moments, and she’ll likely recount the time a green tree python wrapped itself around her neck during a live cross at Healesville Sanctuary. “I’d never read the weather as quickly in my life,” she quipped, recalling how the snake squeezed, then tried to slither into her jacket. It’s stories like these—equal parts nerve-wracking and hilarious—that highlight the unpredictability and excitement of live television.
Such moments aren’t just anecdotes; they’re emblematic of Nixon’s approach to her work. She brought curiosity, courage, and a genuine sense of fun to every broadcast, earning respect from colleagues and affection from viewers.
A Thoughtful Transition: Family, New Projects, and the Future
Nixon’s decision to step away from the nightly weather wasn’t made lightly. “Presenting the weather has shaped my life and career. I owe this role everything, but this is the right decision for me,” she reflected. Her family’s reaction? Unreserved excitement. “When I discussed it with our boys, they said, ‘We’re pretty excited to spend more time with you, Mum’.”
Importantly, Nixon isn’t leaving Nine altogether. Audiences can look forward to seeing her on travel programs ‘Getaway’ and ‘Postcards’, where her storytelling and on-camera charisma will continue to shine. Her final weather broadcast will air on November 18, though her replacement has yet to be announced.
For Nixon, the shift represents not an ending, but a new beginning—one that balances personal priorities with ongoing professional engagement.
Industry Reflections: The Impact of a Trusted Voice
In a rapidly changing media landscape, Nixon’s steady presence has been a rare constant. Over the years, audiences have come to trust not just the information she delivers, but the spirit in which it’s delivered. That trust, built over countless broadcasts, is the foundation of her legacy at Nine.
Her colleagues speak of her as a “shining star,” and viewers echo those sentiments. As she transitions to new projects and a more family-centered life, the affection and gratitude are palpable.
Livinia Nixon’s career is a testament to the power of authenticity and adaptability in television. As she steps away from nightly weather presenting, she does so having shaped not only her own path, but the viewing habits of a generation. Her next chapter—rooted in family and new creative endeavors—promises to be every bit as engaging as the last.