Tributes are pouring in for a man described as “one of the game’s greatest voices” after legendary radio caller David Morrow died following his battle with brain cancer.
Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) Chairman Peter V’landys paid tribute to Morrow, who was diagnosed with brain cancer before Christmas 2023.
In the run-up to his death, Morrow was inducted into the NRL Hall of Fame and V’landys said the whole game would mourn his passing.
“David was one of the game’s great voices – recognized across the country for his wit, acumen and knowledge,” Mr V’landys said.
“I had the pleasure of knowing David throughout my sporting career and he was a champion in every sense of the word. It was an honour and a privilege to know him as a friend.” In his final days, David knew how much he was valued in the rugby league community, having been informed of his induction into the Hall of Fame. While it is terrible that we have lost David, it is comforting to know that he and his family knew what the game thought of his achievements.
“David’s life and contributions will be honored at the Hall of Fame dinner on August 21. On behalf of the Commission, I extend our sincere condolences to David’s family and all who worked with him and knew him.”
Morrow was a radio and television commentator for the ABC from 1980 to 2014, commentating on ABC’s Saturday football broadcasts for a national audience on television until 1996. In 2015 he joined 2GB’s rugby league commentary team.
His long-time colleague Ray Hadley of 2GB said his team’s State of Origin call on Wednesday night was dedicated to Morrow.
“It will be a heavy heart for us to face State of Origin without our partner,” Hadley said.
We will dedicate tonight’s game to his memory. David Morrow is gone, but he will never be forgotten.”
Morrow, 71, leaves behind his wife Christine and daughters Emily and Lucy.