Every fortnight for the first 11 years of Rod’s tenure hosting overnights on ABC radio, I chimed in with news from New York City. The longevity of our broadcasts bears witness to the magic of the city and the endless fascination we shared for it. Since then we have spoken occasionally from Budapest, Italy and France, and later today we will catch up again with some great news……. Sean and I will be celebrating the premiere of our show in Italy at the end of July. Oh, and not only that, there is the chance Rod will be there in person for this much anticipated event, courtesy of his new daylight schedule.
In recognition of Mr Quinn and those 11 years, I have written a few words…
Lured to New York by adventure and work
the Big Apple was a whirlwind of bites
how to share all the fun was a quest in itself
so I contacted Rod on Overnights.
Mr Quinn rules the airwaves from dark until dawn
like Frank loves a city that doesn’t sleep
there’s too much to do, to see and to say
more amusing than counting those sheep.
Every fortnight for years we talked of the latest
there was never a shortage of chat
his listeners chimed in with comments and calls
becoming friends as a matter of fact
Rod came to Manhattan just twice in 10 years
Eataly marked our long lunch as a treat
No cronuts or hot dogs to eat in the park
smart dining for this special meet.
When I left for Europe our broadcasts were less
Budapest didn’t have the same thrall
Then Italy called, then France and Provence
Hey Rod, we are having a ball !
Past tense and present my grammar is mixed
like emotions in Sydney at Auntie
For Rod plans to swop the mic for some leave
he’s earned it, it’s time for a party
Good luck from us all, buona fortuna, bonne chance
it’s my shout this time - you can choose
Many thanks for our broadcasts, for connecting me home
there’s more — but it’s time for your snooze.
TheFitzyreport 
Beautiful sentiments expertly expressed. Not that I’ve heard every broadcast, but enough to be part of the Fitzy Report family with its fun and international gossip.
Best wishes to Rod; he is a very fine broadcaster. His easy manner and broad knowledge combined with his obvious detailed preparation make for very interesting listening.
Joy Stapleton
Thank you for your gorgeous message Joy and for being part of the Fitzy report family. ‘Fun and international gossip’ sums it up perfectly!
I don’t think I’ve ever heard you speak with Rod, but I did today! Loved your ode to the conversations you’ve had with Rod. When I DO tune in during the night, it’s conversations with expats which I find so fascinating! Best wishes with the premiere of your show
Many thanks Kathryn & great to hear you enjoy listening. I’ll let you know how we go with the premiere….!
Laughing at your poem; thrilled at your news and Italy!! Is it possible to hear about this, just between us!)? Our relationship is also a much-treasured one also!💕
Sent from my iPhone
Absolutely birthday girl! Much treasured indeed.
love it. I hope we are going to hear a lot more about your adventures. Cheers
Thanks Maureen – I’m on it!
Love getting your Fitzy reports and hearing all your new. Congratulations on your launch in Italy well done to you and Sean. I didn’t know Rod was leaving ABC as sleeping well these days. He will be missed. I love hearing your news thru the Fitzy Reports. You are living your best life so I’ll always look forward to seeing them in mt inbox
best wishes, good luck
Bernadette From Melbourne x 👏👏☀️🌸
Ah Bernadette – you are lovely to write, thank you so much. I am glad to hear you are sleeping well and hope this means life is good & relaxed. Rod apparently is coming back to the ABC after long service leave, but I will have more news to report before then! Ciao bella, Gabrielle.