Well known radio broadcasters, close friends and even high profile politicians turned out in force last night, when Melbourne’s 3AW held a going away dinner for veteran newsreader Denis O’Kane.

After nearly three decades at 3AW, The 77 year old is stepping back from full time newsreading and reporting.

O’Kane, who considers the station his second home, was surrounded by his work family at the Elephant and Wheelbarrow in the city’s CBD.

Deputy Premier Ben Carroll even put in an appearance.

Other guests included 3AW hosts Tom Elliott and Darren James and newsroom colleagues.

Also present was legendary broadcaster Derryn Hinch, despite having recently been admitted to hospital.

Hinch quipped on social media just last weekend that he is quite literally now a ‘shock jock’ now after undergoing an electric shock procedure to correct an irregular heartbeat.

O’Kane will continue to do casual shifts at 3AW next year.