Australian soap writer Ray Kolle, who became known for his contributions to dramas including Home and Away and Neighbours, has died at the age of 85.
Ray got his big television break in the 60s, writing comedy sketches for In Melbourne Tonight. He went on to secure credits in other well-known shows including Prisoner Cell Block H and Sons and Daughters.
He was head writer on Aussie soap Neighbours from 1986 until 1992. Ray assisted in introducing us to absolutely iconic characters Madge and Harold Bishop, as well as Scott and Charlene Robinson.
Tributes are now pouring in following confirmation of Ray’s death.
Reflecting on his incredible career that lasted over 40 years, the TV City Facebook account wrote: ‘Very sad news to hear of the passing of veteran Australian television writer and story editor Ray Kolle.
‘Ray was one of those incredibly talented people working behind the scenes who helped shape some of Australia’s most iconic television dramas.
‘I’ve always had enormous respect for the writers and producers who created the television shows so many of us grew up watching.
‘I would have absolutely loved to have interviewed Ray for TV City, to hear his first hand stories about Prisoner, Neighbours, the Grundy years and the incredible people he worked alongside. Sadly, that is one interview I’ll never get the opportunity to do.
‘Another important part of Australian television history has left us. Thank you, Ray, for the stories and memories you helped create for generations of television viewers.’
Previously speaking about his love for Neighbours and his role on the show, Ray said in an interview on his website: ‘For the first seven of the ten years that I was Script Producer (or Script Supervisor was the title then), I was in love with the show and the characters.
‘I found them a joy to create stories for. Since then the show has not had quite the same strength of overall cast.’
On the success of Neighbours, he added: ‘I think it’s the strength and attractiveness of the cast, and perhaps most importantly the strength of the stories. It’s basically a sunny, feel-good show with identifiable characters and a certain nostalgia for a sense of community that doesn’t really seem to exist these days. I hope it keeps running for another eighteen years!’.