Friday 16 December 2011

Molly Meldrum in critical condition after fall at home in Richmond

Ian "Molly" Meldrum

Music guru Molly Meldrum at his home in Richmond, Victoria. Picture: Aaron Francis
Source: Herald Sun

UPDATE 6.53am: MUSIC legend Molly Meldrum is fighting for his life after a fall at his home while reportedly putting up Christmas decorations.

Meldrum, long-time host of top-rating television pop/rock show Countdown, was found unconscious by his gardener before ambulance officers arrived at his Richmond house at 6.40pm. It is believed Meldrum, 65, fell from a ladder while he was placing decorations on the roof in preparation for a Christmas party planned for Sunday.

But Garry Spry, who has been Meldrum's friend since 1964, said Meldrum was putting up decorations around the upstairs spa at his home when he fell. Mr Spry said he believed Meldrum had fallen down a flight of stairs from the spa which is about 10ft above ground - not a ladder.

Ambulance officers, including mobile intensive care paramedics, took Meldrum away in a critical condition. He underwent surgery late last night to relieve pressure on his brain.
He remained in intensive care in The Alfred Hospital where he earlier had been placed in an induced coma.

Mark Klemens, managing director of Profile Talent Management, provided a statement on behalf of gathered family and friends. "Unfortunately late this afternoon Molly had a fall at home," he said. "As a consequence of that fall he suffered significant injuries." Mr Klemens said the next 24 hours would be crucial. "I'm a half full person, I'm always preparing for a better outcome," he said.

Many major music identities offered their best wishes to the man they knew well socially and professionally, in a career dating back to the 1960s.

Russell Morris, who had seen Meldrum only a few hours before, said the pair were planning a recording session for next Monday. "We are recording some versions of the Tom Petty song I Won't Back Down," he said.

MTR morning host Steve Vizard spent 30 minutes chatting to Meldrum on-air yesterday.
Vizard, a long-time friend of Meldrum's, said he was devastated to hear of the accident.
"He is a great friend of our show. He was in great form. He was fit and happy and was looking forward to Christmas,'' Vizard said. "He was talking about spending time in Bangkok and Phuket with his partner. "He has had the most brilliant year and was happy and joking about his upcoming holiday. "Everyone is wishing him well.

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