Coffee with Luke: Farewell to The Project – A 16-Year Legacy Ends

Tonight marked the final curtain call for one of Australia’s most iconic current affairs shows — The Project on Channel 10. After 16 incredible years of news, laughs, debates, and unforgettable moments, the lights have dimmed on that famous desk for the last time.

It’s hard to believe it’s over.

I had the privilege of being part of The Project story last year in 2024. It was one of those unforgettable experiences that sticks with you. I went to the live taping of the show in the audience — not once, but twice — with my beautiful mum Lyn and my cousin Kasma. Sitting in the studio, soaking in the energy, watching the magic happen live… it felt electric.

One of the best parts? Meeting some of the amazing people behind the headlines.

On the night we went, Robert Irwin was guest co-hosting. Yep, Steve Irwin’s son! He brought his down-to-earth charm and positive energy to the desk, and it was easy to see why Australia loves him. He’s not just following in his dad’s footsteps — he’s making his own.

We also saw Kate Langbroek, who had the audience (and probably the hosts) in stitches, and she even took a group photo with us! Talk about a souvenir! That night also featured familiar faces like Sarah Harris, Waleed Aly, and Sam Taunton — a dream team of wit, wisdom, and warmth.

You could feel the chemistry between the hosts. There was seriousness when needed, but never without humanity. They tackled real issues — and some hard ones too — but always with an edge of compassion and that signature Aussie humour.

What made The Project so unique was how it made the news accessible. It wasn’t just about telling us what happened — it was about helping us feel it, question it, and talk about it. Whether it was breaking news, climate change, mental health, or viral trends, The Project always had a way of putting the real in reality.

Tonight, watching that final broadcast brought a mix of emotions. Sadness, nostalgia, gratitude… but also a sense of celebration. Because 16 years is something to be proud of. That’s nearly two decades of shaping Australian conversation. That’s a whole generation growing up with The Project as a weeknight ritual.

So, from this little coffee corner of the internet — thank you, Project team. Thank you for informing us, challenging us, making us laugh, and sometimes making us cry. Thank you for the live memories. And thank you for going out with the same grace, humour, and spirit that made you beloved in the first place.

Goodnight, The Project. You might be off the air, but your impact will stay on in our hearts.

– Luke ☕💬