The 62-year-old, who presented the Channel 10 news for 33 years, appeared on Sunrise show to promote the Salvation Army’s Red Shield appeal and showed off an emotional side as he explained how the organisation helped him and his family during Cyclone Tracy.
In 1974, more than 70 people were killed and billions of dollars of damage was done when the cyclone took place in Darwin.
At the time, Wilson was 19-year-old when he and his family were evacuated from their home which was completely destroyed.
“When we got out of Darwin they were there to meet us ... ” he started before he broke down in tears.
Weekend Sunrise host Monique Wright comforted the 62-year-old and said, “we know that every day someone from the Salvos would give you and your mum a $20 note”.
“This was in the days before mobile phones so to apply for jobs you had to go and stand ...” he said as he choked up. “I’m sorry,” continued. “You spent the money on the public phones to make calls to get jobs.”
Wilson, who still has PTSD from Cyclone Tracy, communicated through heartfelt tears to share why he this cause was so important to him.
“The reason I do this is because I know how important it is for them and while it’s difficult for me I’m happy to come here and do this because it’s so important,” he said. “Putting $10 in that bucket today makes a big difference.”
Absolutely heartbreaking. Sending love to Ron for speaking out after such difficult circumstances.
