Presenter Mary Kennedy has opened up about what's next for her after she leaves Nationwide after 40 years working at RTE.
The veteran presenter turned 65 in September, meaning that she was obliged to retire as a staff member from the national broadcaster.
But she remains upbeat and said she's looking forward to "the next chapter" in her life.
Mary also said she was willing to take new opportunities as they arise.
The Dubliner told Independent.ie that she's proud to have worked on Nationwide and also revealed presenting Open House with Marty Whelan from 1999 to 2004 was another of her favourite gigs.
She said: "Among the highlights were 'Open House' with Marty Whelan. I loved the commentaries I do with John Bowman on state occasions and the Christmas carols programme which this year will be broadcast from Kilkenny Castle.
"I have enjoyed every minute of my time with 'Nationwide'. I can think of nothing nicer than to earn one's living meeting people from all walks of life and spotlighting the positive, supportive and loving ways in which they run their communities, their enterprises, their leisure activities.
"'Nationwide' is about people - the people we feature, the hard-working and very creative team behind the programme and the presenters. I've had the honour of co-presenting with Anne Cassin for the past seven years and with Michael Ryan, who created the programme, before that."
And she told how she's now enjoying some down time in Australia with her son who lives there.
She said: "I'm actually in Melbourne at the moment. I came here to surprise my son Eoin for his 30th birthday and have spent a most enjoyable time with him and his girlfriend Nicola.
"She did a wonderful job of organising a magical time for us. It's my first trip to Australia and it's been a joy".
Blathnaid Ni Chofaigh will join Anne Cassin as the new Nationwide co-anchor in the new year on the popular evening show.
Extending her regards to Blathnaid, Mary said she wished her "the very best as she embarks on this wonderful adventure".
