Veteran Australian broadcaster Richard Morecroft, best known for presenting ABC’s 7pm NSW News for almost two decades, has died at the age of 70. Morecroft died on October 6, 2026, on the south coast of New South Wales after being diagnosed with cancer earlier this year. His longtime partner, artist Alison Mackay, was beside him.
His career stretched across television, radio, educational programming, wildlife documentaries and environmental conservation. He became one of the most recognisable news presenters in New South Wales during his time at ABC.
Who Was Richard Morecroft?
Richard Morecroft was an English-born Australian television news presenter, radio announcer, author, photographer and conservationist. He was born in Market Harborough, England, in 1956 and moved to Adelaide with his family when he was 10 years old.
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He became particularly well known for presenting the ABC’s NSW 7pm News from 1983 to 2002. His calm presentation style made him a familiar presence in Australian homes.
Morecroft also hosted ABC’s children’s educational program Behind the News (BTN) and later presented SBS’s quiz program Letters and Numbers.
Richard Morecroft Age And Education
Richard Morecroft was 70 years old when he died.
He studied English and Drama at the University of Adelaide, where he developed an interest in broadcasting through the university’s radio station. He initially considered careers including teaching and acting before entering the media industry.
Morecroft joined the ABC in radio before moving into television. His early broadcasting work included presenting the Adelaide news bulletin.
Richard Morecroft Career At ABC And SBS
Morecroft moved to Sydney in 1982 and took over the ABC’s NSW 7 pm News role in 1983, replacing veteran presenter James Dibble. He remained in the position until 2002.
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