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Prime Media founder Paul Ramsay dies

Prime7The former chairman and founder of Prime Media Group Paul Ramsay has died after reportedly suffering a heart attack whilst on holiday.

Ramsay’s decision in February to sell out of the media industry in the year it is expected ownership laws will be lifted and a number of lucrative acquisitions will take place raised eyebrows in the industry, but the 78-year-old at the time cited a desire to focus on his other business interests, which included Ramsay Health Care, Australia’s largest private hospital group.

The Australian reports he suffered a heart attack whilst on holiday in Spain, and was airlifted back to Australia and passed away at his home in Bowral, NSW, last night.

CEO of Prime Ian Audsley said in a statement: “Paul Ramsay was a true gentleman. Prime is honoured to have had the opportunity to work with a man of his stature. For twenty nine years, Paul served as the Chairman of Prime and played a significant role in the growth of regional television in Australia.

“It is a very sad day for the directors and staff of Prime who came to know and respect Paul during his tenure. He was held in high regard by all who met him. Paul was a philanthropist, a generous benefactor, a kind friend and a supportive colleague. We offer our sincere condolences and deepest sympathy to his family, his colleagues and the staff at Ramsay Health Care and Paul Ramsay Holdings, and his many dear friends.”

Prime is the regional affiliate with Seven West Media, rebroadcasting its shows in regional markets.

Update: Seven West Media released a statement on Paul Ramsey with executive chairman Kerry Stokes and CEO Tim Worner expressing their sadness at his passing.

“Everyone at Seven West Media is saddened by the passing of our dear friend and colleague Paul Ramsey AO.

“For nearly 30 years, he guided the development of Prime Media as a partner with the Seven Network. During that period, he conducted his business with us as he lived his life. There was never a cross word or a raised voice. That’s a miracle in our business.

“His enthusiasm and zest for life was infectious. He was a great builder and had a very big heart. He loved people and he loved life. His businesses were like families to him and he achieved amazing results.

“Over the past couple of decades, with his growing involvement in Ramsay Health Care, he was also a strong supporter of Telethon in Western Australia and a great contributor nationally.

“Personally, I have lost a colleague and a very dear friend. He has however left a legacy of treasured memories.”

Worner added: “We all need a Paul Ramsay in our lives. Personally and here at Seven, we were blessed to have Paul and his influence over nearly everything we did.

“His joy of life and enthusiasm for everything to do with our business was an irresistible force. At the heart of the man was a genuine interest in people and a genuine desire to make the most of every moment. Paul leaves an irreplaceable imprint in our lives. He was a gem of a man. We will miss him very much.”

Alex Hayes

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