Australian Rugby Union is today mourning the loss of former sports broadcaster, David Fordham, who passed away yesterday in Brisbane after a lengthy battle with cancer and heart disease aged 62.
The Bingara born Fordham, began his media career with NBN television in Newcastle before spending more than three decades with the Seven and Ten networks, making a name for himself as one of Australia’s most versatile broadcasters.
David, known as “Dasher” to a legion of sports personalities and mates, covered four Olympic Games, four Commonwealth Games, three Rugby World Cups, President’s Cup golf, Davis Cup tennis and much more.
He also hosted a number of national sports programs, including Sportsworld on the Seven network.
ARU Managing Director and CEO, John O’Neill AO, passed on his condolences to the Fordham family.
“David was a true professional who had an incredible knowledge for a wide range of sports, a talent that was highlighted during his coverage of three Rugby World Cups,” Mr O’Neill said.
“His association with our great game however, extended beyond his broadcasting of Rugby’s show piece event, with his brothers Bob and John both contributing to Rugby in Australia.
“Bob was an elite referee who also held the position of CEO of Australian Rugby Union for a number of years in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s, while John has been one of Australian sports’ leading talent and sports managers for many years.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Bob and John and the entire Fordham family and on behalf of Australian Rugby I pass on our since condolences.”
In 2000, David was awarded the Australian Sports Medal for his services to sport by the Australian Government and in 2009 the Australian Olympic Committee acknowledged his significant contribution to the Olympic movement with its coveted Order of Merit award.
David is survived by his wife Erica, daughter Sally, son Simon, daughter-in-law Nina, grandchildren Felix and Remy and brothers Bob and John.
