Natalie Barr, the beloved host of the morning television program *Sunrise*, has revealed that despite her extensive experience of over 22 years in the industry, she still feels nervous before going on air. In an interview with 7NEWS, Barr shared her thoughts on the pressures of live television and the emotional drive that keeps her engaged in her role.
“The day I stop being excited and/or nervous is the day I should leave,” Barr stated. She acknowledged that the nature of live broadcasting means that “things go wrong all the time.” With nearly four hours of airtime each morning, she often reflects on interviews and segments, wishing she could have approached them differently. “There’s no way we think we are perfect,” she said, emphasizing that a desire to deliver quality news fuels her nerves.
Barr begins her day at an early hour, waking up at 2:30 a.m. Her morning routine includes a shower, coffee, and listening to a political podcast during her commute to stay informed about current events. By 3:30 a.m., she is at her desk, prepared to lead the team. “We know how big the team is and how much work they put into the show,” she said, expressing pride in the collaborative effort that goes into each broadcast.
Personal Life Changes and Embracing New Challenges
In addition to her professional commitments, Barr recently experienced significant changes in her personal life. Her sons, Hunter, 19, and Lachlan, 23, have moved out of the family home, transitioning Barr and her husband, Andrew, into an “empty-nest” phase. While initially feeling sadness about their departure, Barr reflected on the importance of fostering independence in her children. “You really don’t want them to be living at home when they’re 40,” she remarked, acknowledging that it is natural for children to eventually stand on their own.
As Barr adjusts to this new stage of life at the age of 57, she is learning to appreciate the quiet moments alone. She has long been a fan of Pilates and even owns a Pilates machine at home. Recently, she joined a local gym, which has sparked a renewed enthusiasm for fitness. “It’s so important for women over 50 to do weight-bearing exercises,” she added, sharing her commitment to improving her health and fitness routine.
In December, Barr will celebrate her 30-year wedding anniversary with Andrew. Although they initially planned to keep the celebration low-key, they opted for a memorable trip to Europe earlier this year. “We hadn’t been to Europe together for many, many years,” Barr revealed. Their secret celebration included time spent with one of their sons during his university break, making the experience even more special.
Barr’s candid reflections on her career and personal life illustrate a dynamic individual who continues to navigate the challenges of both professional and family life with grace. As she looks forward to the future, her dedication to her craft and her family remains evident.
