Maggie Tabberer stands as an iconic figure in Australian fashion, publishing, and television whose career spanned decades and left an indelible mark on the country's cultural landscape. Born Margaret May Trigar on December 11, 1936, in Parkside, South Australia, she rose from accidental discovery to become a household name and a pioneer across multiple creative industries.
Her journey into the spotlight began at the tender age of 14 when a photographer spotted her at her sister's wedding, leading to her first modeling assignment. Years later, after attending a modeling school, legendary photographer Helmut Newton discovered her at age 23, mentoring her and helping launch a stellar career that included winning Model of the Year in Melbourne in 1960 before she transitioned to Sydney.
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SubscribeBeyond modeling, Tabberer cemented her legacy in publishing and media, most notably as the fashion editor for the Australian Women's Weekly from 1981 to 1996. Her media footprint expanded significantly into television, where she captivated audiences on panel shows like Beauty and the Beast and later hosted her own hit chat show, Maggie, earning consecutive Gold Logie awards in 1970 and 1971.
Her entrepreneurial spirit also shone through ventures like her public relations firm and the plus-size clothing label Maggie T, proving her enduring business acumen. Recognized with honors including membership in the Order of Australia, Maggie Tabberer passed away on December 6, 2024, leaving behind a profound legacy as a true trailblazer of Australian style.