Tributes flow for ‘radio titan’ Bill Caralis after his death, aged 81

Tributes are flowing for “radio titan” Bill Caralis, days after his death.

Caralis was the founder, chairman and managing director of the Super Radio Network, which operates 42 radio stations in Queensland and NSW.

He died on Friday, aged 81.

Staff at his radio stations have remembered him as “a very caring man” and “a giant of our industry”.

Radio station 4WK, based in Toowoomba and covering the Darling Downs, shared a tribute to Caralis on social media.

“Caralis maintained a close connection with his staff, and was deeply invested in his stations, and the people that worked for him,” the station said.

“His love and passion for radio was inspirational, and all of us here at 4WK will miss him greatly.

“A man who was all the things above, but so much more.

“He was a very caring man as well, who helped me through some tough patches.

“I thank you Bill for all that you have done for me and others and wish you a well-deserved rest.”

Radio 2VM, based in Moree, also shared a tribute.

“It’s been a sad and reflective day for us today,” the station said.

“We have been assured that it will be buisness as usual with all staff urged to continue in his loving memory.

“Rest easy Boss.”

2MG Radio, based in Mudgee, also made a post about the sad news.

“(Caralis was) a man who avoided the spotlight himself but loved radio and over the years built up a large network of stations including 2MG and Real FM.

“He also gave a start in, or a return to, the industry to many people now working throughout Australian radio and other media.”

One such staff member, Gavin Flanagan, spoke about his time working under Caralis.

“I’ve been in radio for almost 30 years and the vast majority of those years have been spent working for Bill Caralis,” he said.

“I’m struggling for the right words to describe a giant of our industry who, despite his polarising nature, was always very good to me and my family.

“I’m very saddened by the news this morning of his passing.

“My deepest condolences to Pam, Despina, George, John and families, as well as the many incredibly loyal former colleagues of mine who have been by his side for many years. I’m thinking of you all today.”