We’re going to miss David Leckie, the knockabout media boss who finally stood down as Seven West Media chief this morning. They just don’t make media executives like that any more, wonderfully reckless and just a little mad, leaving a void on the corporate stage that can only be filled by one woman.

Thankfully, she’s up to the task. Gina Rinehart is one right out of the box. The written statement she gave the ABC’s Four Corners, via Hancock Prospecting, is a rare insight into the mind of the world’s richest woman. Take her view on climate change coverage:

“She remains concerned by the lack of understanding in the media on this issue. To lessen the fear the media have caused over these issues, Mrs Rinehart suggests that the media should also permit to be published that climate change has been occurring naturally since the earth began, not just the views of the climate extremists. It is a fact that there have been ice ages, then periods of global warming to end the ice ages, for thousands of years, and these have occurred naturally, including due to the earth’s orbit, and not due to mankind at all.

“Mrs Rinehart points out that some people received notoriety claiming only a few decades ago that the earth was about to enter an ice age and understands some of those same people are now claiming, global warming instead. Mrs Rinehart admires people like Ian Plimer who have independently chosen on their own accord to stand up against this tidal wave, which has caused fear, and despite substantial attacks by some of the media and extremists for so doing. It is noted Professor Plimer had his own views on climate change long before he knew Mrs Rinehart and had given many such informative speaking tours prior to meeting Mrs Rinehart.”

And on rising TV star Andrew Bolt:

“Andrew Bolt has a short programme on Channel 10 on Sundays. It is noted that his programme is very popular in country areas, yet unfortunately many country areas are unable to receive Channel 10. As stated previously by Mrs Rinehart, Mrs Rinehart hopes that should Mr Bolt’s time permit, that he would consider longer programmes on Channel 10.”

And on Fairfax — the company she’s dangerously close to winning control of:

“HPPL had hoped that Mrs Rinehart may be viewed by the Board as a successful business person and a necessary ‘white knight’ with mutual interest in a sustainable Fairfax, however unless director positions are offered without unsuitable conditions, Mrs Rinehart is unable to assist Fairfax at this time. HPPL may hence sell its interest, and may consider repurchasing at some other time.”

White knight, indeed.

Ride to their rescue, Gina. We need you more than ever.