SUNSHINE COAST, 10 February 2026 – Rob Brough, the veteran newsreader and former game show host who became a fixture of Queensland television for over three decades, has officially concluded his long-standing tenure with the Seven Network. Following a career that spanned national game shows and regional news anchoring, Brough’s departure marks the end of an era for Seven Queensland viewers.
A Career Defined by Versatility
Rob Brough first rose to national prominence in the late 1980s. While many modern viewers recognise him as the face of regional news, he was originally a household name across Australia as the host of the Seven Network’s adaptation of Family Feud. Brough steered the popular game show from 1989 until 1995, a period during which the programme enjoyed significant ratings success before he was eventually succeeded by John Deeks.
Following his stint in national entertainment, Brough transitioned back to his roots in journalism, becoming the lead anchor for Seven Queensland’s local news bulletins. For more than 20 years, he was the primary source of information for residents across the Sunshine Coast, Wide Bay, and Central Queensland.
Career Timeline and Highlights
| Period | Role / Programme | Network |
|---|---|---|
| 1989 – 1995 | Host, Family Feud Australia | Seven Network |
| 1990 – 2025 | News Anchor, Seven Local News | Seven Queensland |
| December 2025 | Official Retirement/Farewell | Seven Queensland |
Recent Challenges and Departure
The final chapter of Brough’s career was marked by a significant period of absence that sparked concern among his loyal viewership. In August 2025, Brough vanished from screens, leading to widespread speculation regarding his future with the network. In September 2025, he broke his silence to reveal the heartbreaking reason for his hiatus: his daughter’s battle with cancer.
Brough stated at the time that it was an “instant choice” to prioritise his family over his professional duties. While he briefly returned to the desk, the Seven Network officially farewelled the veteran presenter on 30 December 2025. His departure was part of a broader “facelift” for Channel 7 in Queensland, which has seen several long-term personalities move on from the broadcaster.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Rob Brough leave Channel 7?
Rob Brough initially took a leave of absence in late 2025 to support his daughter through a health battle. He was officially farewelled by the network in late December 2025 as part of a transition in Seven’s regional news line-up.
How long did Rob Brough host Family Feud?
Brough hosted the Australian version of Family Feud for approximately six years, from 1989 until 1995.
Where is Rob Brough now?
As of February 2026, Rob Brough has retired from his nightly newsreading duties. He has indicated that his primary focus remains on his family following his exit from the Seven Network.
Who replaced Rob Brough on Family Feud?
In 1995, Rob Brough was replaced as the host of Family Feud by John Deeks, who was well-known at the time as the announcer for Wheel of Fortune.