Conrad Charlton
Conrad Charlton | |
|---|---|
| Born | Template:Birth date Otago, New Zealand |
| Died | June 6, 1976 (aged 88) |
| Occupation(s) | Baritone vocalist, radio presenter, ABC executive |
| Years active | 1920s–1953 |
| Known for | First voice on ABC's 2BL; ABC state manager roles |
Conrad Charlton (18 May 1888 – 6 June 1976), frequently referred to as Con Charlton, was an Australian baritone vocalist, performer, and radio presenter. He gained recognition as the inaugural voice to broadcast on ABC's station 2BL on 1 July 1932. Subsequently, he held managerial roles across multiple state divisions of the Australian Broadcasting Commission.
History
Originally named Charlton Conrad Ziesler, he was born in Otago, New Zealand. During The Great War, he served as a 2nd Lieutenant in the New Zealand Military Forces. Prior to March 1922, Charlton relocated to Australia where he participated in pantomimes and toured with vaudeville troupes. From 1925 until 1930, he showcased his baritone talents in revues and operettas under J. C. Williamson's banner, performing in productions such as Madame Pompadour, The Student Prince, and The Vagabond King. His spouse, Hazel Fuller, often appeared alongside him.
Under the encouragement of station manager Basil Kirke, Charlton began working at Sydney’s radio station 2BL in 1930 as an early morning announcer. His responsibilities included leading community sing-alongs and providing commentary on horse racing events. Additionally, between September 1931 and April 1933, he presented talks focused on poultry and pigeon care on sister station 2FC. By the end of 1931, he had established himself as a notable figure within radio broadcasting.
With the enactment of the Australian Broadcasting Commission Act 1932, programming control transitioned to the ABC starting from July 1, 1932. It is believed that Charlton was the announcer who inaugurated station 2BL's broadcast that day. The launch featured a coordinated national transmission connecting major stations, including addresses from Prime Minister Joseph Lyons and other government officials.
Between 1930 and 1936, Charlton advanced to studio manager at 2FC. In May 1936, he assumed the position of station manager at 6WF as well as Western Australia's branch manager, succeeding Kirke in these roles. One of his major accomplishments was arranging for the Perth Anzac Day service to be broadcast nationwide. He also played a pivotal role in enhancing Western Australia’s classical music and opera offerings by bringing prominent international performers to the region.
In 1947, Charlton was appointed ABC State Manager for Victoria and left his Western Australia post later that year. He retired from the ABC in May 1953, with Kirke succeeding him once more. In September 1954, Charlton took on the role of Public Relations Officer for The Age newspaper.
Family
Conrad Charlton wed Hazel Alice Bernice Fuller (1894–1974) in Sydney on 7 June 1924. Hazel Charlton was an influential figure within Perth’s cultural community, serving as chairperson for the People's Patriotic Concerts committee associated with the Australian Broadcasting Commission and holding the presidency of the Perth Symphony Orchestral Committee from 1939 through 1947. A trained soprano vocalist herself, she occasionally performed principal opera roles and directed several choirs including the Oriana Choir, The Cecilians, and also led the choir at Scotch College attended by their sons.
Their two sons, Michael Charlton and Tony Charlton, both attended Scotch College before becoming prominent ABC broadcasters. Michael (born 1927) was notably the first television presenter on ABCTV in 1956, earned a Gold Logie, and later worked extensively with the BBC. Tony (1929–2012) gained prominence as a leading sports commentator on commercial television networks. The couple also had two additional children: Diana Charlton (born circa 1935) and Peter Charlton (born 1938).