A familiar face on Australian television for decades
Australian television has lost one of its most recognisable faces, with veteran newsreader Richard Morecroft dying aged 70.
Morecroft died peacefully on the NSW South Coast after being diagnosed with cancer earlier this year. His partner of 36 years, Alison Mackay, was by his side.
For many Australians, Morecroft was a familiar face in their living rooms, presenting the ABC’s 7pm news bulletin from 1983 until 2002.
From the news desk to a quieter life
Morecroft spent more than three decades in broadcasting, also presenting programs including Behind the News and later hosting SBS’s popular quiz show Letters and Numbers.
After stepping away from the nightly news in 2002, Morecroft and Mackay moved to the Jervis Bay area, where he embraced his love of nature, photography and the environment.
He remained involved in broadcasting while also working with environmental organisations, including the Taronga Foundation.
Morecroft once described his move away from television as less about retirement and more about changing the way he lived.
Remembered as more than just a newsreader
Tributes have flowed from former colleagues and fellow broadcasters, who remembered Morecroft as warm, intelligent and generous.
His family said they hoped those who knew him, even if it was only through their television screens, would remember him fondly.
And for anyone who grew up watching the ABC news in the 80s, 90s or early 2000s, that familiar face and voice will certainly be hard to forget.
