Tejal Somvanshi
Richard Morecroft, the veteran Australian newsreader who anchored ABC’s 7pm news bulletin for nearly two decades, has died aged 70. His family confirmed he passed away peacefully on the NSW south coast after a private battle with cancer, with his partner Alison Mackay beside him.
Morecroft died on October 5, 2026. He had been diagnosed with cancer earlier in the year. ABC management led tributes from the broadcasting community. Morecroft began presenting the ABC News NSW 7pm bulletin in 1983 and continued until 2002. He also presented Behind the News and other programs for the national broadcaster, and later hosted Letters and Numbers on SBS.
The passing of Richard Morecroft marks the end of an era for Australian public service journalism. For viewers who relied on his nightly 7pm ABC bulletin across nearly two decades, his career offers a model of measured, trustworthy news delivery. Beyond the studio desk, his legacy continues through his conservation affiliations and wildlife work in coastal New South Wales.
He dedicated his post-broadcast years to environmental and wildlife work, including an association with WIRES and conservation activity in coastal New South Wales. He was involved with conservation organisations including WWF Australia.
Richard Morecroft was best known as the lead presenter of ABC News NSW’s 7pm bulletin from 1983 to 2002. He also presented Behind the News and hosted Letters and Numbers on SBS, and was involved in wildlife and nature programming during his career.
ABC is expected to release further details about memorial arrangements. For related coverage, see our look at the history of ABC News presenters and our profile of Australian public broadcasting’s most significant figures.
