16/06/2026
It is with great sadness that I reflect on the passing of Jean Haste, a remarkable woman whose passion for music enriched the lives of so many in our community.
Jean was a devoted supporter of music in all its forms. A lifelong jazz enthusiast, she possessed one of the finest collections of jazz recordings I have ever encountered, much of it rare material gifted to her by leading Australian and international artists who recognised her deep love and knowledge of the genre.
I first met Jean through her involvement with the Wagga Jazz Festival. The festival flourished through her dedication, energy and extraordinary personal connections within the music world. Her friendships with musicians helped bring many outstanding artists to Wagga Wagga, creating experiences that audiences here would otherwise never have enjoyed.
Jean was also a passionate broadcaster. Through her work at AAA FM (formerly 2AAA), she introduced me to the world of radio. Her regular jazz and classical music programs were more than broadcasts; they were conversations, celebrations of music, and opportunities to share stories. She welcomed countless Riverina Conservatorium teachers, performers and guests onto her programs, making us all feel like celebrities for a few minutes while she played our favourite recordings and spoke with genuine warmth and curiosity.
Her commitment to classical music and music education was equally profound. Jean quietly supported the Riverina Conservatorium through generous donations and scholarship sponsorships year after year. What was most remarkable was her humility. She consistently sought anonymity, never wanting recognition for her generosity, only wanting to help young musicians thrive.
For well over a decade, Jean was a familiar face at Conservatorium concerts. She rarely missed a performance and regularly brought friends along, eager to introduce them to the joy of live music and the extraordinary talent within our community.
Beyond music, Jean was a connoisseur of fine malt whisky and treasured good company. Many of us will remember sharing a dram with her after a concert or dinner party, only to find that before long the conversation had inevitably returned to her favourite subject - music.
Jean's contribution to the cultural life of Wagga Wagga cannot be measured simply by the events she supported, the broadcasts she hosted, or the scholarships she funded. Her greatest gift was the enthusiasm, generosity and friendship she shared with everyone around her. She leaves behind a richer musical community because of her presence, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Hamish Tait
CEO/Director
Riverina Conservatorium of Music
