Great commentator, great man. RIP David ‘Thirsty’ Morrow

Australian radio is today mourning the loss of renowned sports commentator David Morrow, following his death at the age of 71.

Morrow – affectionately nicknamed ‘Thirsty’ – was diagnosed with brain cancer several months ago.

He retired from his commentary role on the Continuous Call Team in February this year.

His broadcasting career spanned an incredible 52 years, including 44 years covering first-grade rugby league, eight Olympic Games, and six Commonwealth Games.

He joined 2GB in 2015, following a long stint at the ABC.

2GB’s Ray Hadley paid tribute to his colleague and long time friend on air this afternoon.

“Apart from being a magnificent commentator he was a really, really good man,” said Hadley.

Nine Radio Managing Director Tom Malone said “Everyone who met David liked him, because he was passionate about what he did. He was an advocate for athletes and sports people. He loved what they did on the track, field, pitch or ground, and loved describing their achievements to the listeners. We’ve lost one of the greats today. Our staff and our listeners will miss him dearly.”

Luke Davis, 2GB Content Manager, said: “For more than five decades, David Morrow’s voice was the soundtrack of some of the greatest sporting moments Australia and the world has seen. His knowledge and passion for sport has burst through Australian radios each and every weekend – a familiar and iconic sound.”

“Thirsty was a mentor to so many of the ‘next generation’ of sports broadcasters, and his influence will live on, through them, for many years to come.”

An OAM recipient in 2005, Morrow was last year inducted into the Sydney Cricket Ground Media Hall of Honour.

He will be added to the Rugby League Hall of Fame next month.

David is survived by his wife Kristine and daughters Emily and Lucy.