NSW:Rowe says 2006 has a had a happy ending with impending birth

AAP General News (Australia)
12-08-2006
NSW:Rowe says 2006 has a had a happy ending with impending birth

By Katelyn John

SYDNEY, Dec 8 AAP - Nine Network's Today presenter Jessica Rowe says while 2006 has
offered plenty of challenges, it has had a "happy ending" as she leaves to prepare for
the birth of her baby.

Rowe presented her last show today before going on four months maternity leave.

Speaking after the broadcast of the baby shower-themed show, Rowe said the imminent
birth of her baby had put all of the last year's controversies into perspective.

"There's been some challenges this year ... but for me it's turned out in the most
wonderful possible way - I'm going to be a mum," the 36-year-old presenter told AAP after
her celebrations.

"So it's been the very best of years for me."

In the past 12 months, Rowe was involved in a contract dispute with her previous employers
at Network Ten, a tumultuous transition into her presenting job on Today, the leaked comments
made by network boss Eddie McGuire about having her "boned" (sacked), and a fall in which
she broke her wrist.

But also there was happy news. She and her 60 Minutes reporter husband Peter Overton
were to be parents for the first time following a successful fourth IVF treatment.

"I think when something like this happens, it puts everything else into perspective
and you realise what matters," Rowe said.

"And what matters most to Peter and I is that we're going to be a family and that is
the best thing of all."

She added that Eddie McGuire has been "wonderful" and "so supportive."

"He said just enjoy it, it's the best thing you'll ever do," Rowe said.

"And that he was looking forward to getting me back next year."

Weatherman Steve Jacobs congratulated Rowe on a year which has been fraught with controversy
saying: "You've won the battle and you've done it with dignity."

While the whole Today show staff wished Rowe well on her "most important production."

Sarah Murdoch, who will replace Rowe for one month of her maternity leave, said she
had big shoes to fill.

"I'm very nervous," said the former model.

"How am I going to fill these shoes."

But Karl Stefanovic joked that she wouldn't have to worry for too long, judging by
the number of women on the show who have fallen pregnant recently.

"Don't worry, you'll be pregnant in no time!" he said, referring to the other pregnancies
of former newsreader Sharyn Ghildella and fill-in newsreader Georgie Gardner.

AAP kaj/klw/imc/bwl

KEYWORD: ROWE (FILE PIX AVAILABLE)

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