Two words in the farewell to a well-known radio newsreader, who was axed from 3AW while he was on sick leave, have sparked backlash.Tony Tardio, who spent 43 years with the Melbourne station, revealed on Friday he had settled his unfair dismissal case against 3AW.He took his pursuit to the Federal Court after Fair Work negotiations had failed to reach a resolution last month.In January, Tardio’s employer Nine Radio (now Tapt Media) rejected any suggestion he had been sacked. It said that, as part of a change to newsroom operations, his position had been made redundant.On Friday, the 66 year-old said “we have peace in our time” as the case had been settled and that he was pleased with the outcome.“I knew I was never going to get the opportunity to read one last bulletin,’’ Tardio said.“But I will get something on their website thanking me for my service.“I knew going to court you don’t always win and there are risks, but I was not to be treated shabbily.”Tardio said there were “lots of zeros involved” in the settlement.Although he never got to read a final bulletin for the station, 3AW posted a short tribute to him on its website overnight. The post was titled ‘Thank You, Tony Tardio: A Melbourne Radio News Legend Steps Down’ — with the final two words catching the eye of Tardio.“Could someone in the 3AW online department please amend this post,” he said. “It is not accurate. I did not step down I was made redundant.”Tardio said he would do podcasting, interviews and Italian radio in the coming months, and said he had been driving Ubers — a side hustle he described as “actually quite fun”.“I’ve got lots of things I want to do,’’ he said.Tardio had accused Nine Radio, now Tapt Media management, of being ageist.He said new owner, pub baron Arthur Laundy, would have been “better off buying a Chemist Warehouse”.“I was offered 12 weeks redundancy and that was unacceptable and I never took sick leave so I had eight months accumulated,’’ he said.“I allege it was a sham redundancy, my job is still being done.”In its statement, 3AW said: “After an extraordinary 42 years of service, 3AW bids a warm farewell to legendary newsreader Tony Tardio.“Tony has been a cornerstone of the 3AW newsroom, guiding Melburnians through decades of breaking news with absolute professionalism, integrity, and a deep dedication to his craft and our listeners. His authoritative voice and unwavering commitment to excellence have helped shape broadcast journalism in this city.“Beyond his stellar career behind the microphone, Tony is known across the station and the broader community for his vibrant passions. Whether passionately cheering on his beloved Carlton Football Club or indulging in his love for exceptional food and fine wine.“Tony leaves behind a profound legacy and countless deep friendships at 3AW and right across Melbourne. We extend our deepest gratitude to Tony for his decades of exceptional service.”