Documentary producer and broadcaster, Graham “Shadow” McNeice, whose career spanned TV presenter, race caller, and sports commentator on both radio and television has died, aged 76.
He died following a short illness, surrounded by family and close friends.
His broadcasting career began at the age of 17 as protégé to racing commentator Frank Kennedy. At 2UE he worked closely with the legendary Des Hoysted, and earned his iconic nickname, “The Shadow,” when fellow broadcaster Peter Bosley “Boz” quipped on-air that Graham’s silhouette “cast a giant shadow over Canterbury racetrack.”
He moved to Network 10 in multiple roles as sports journalist, producer, and presenter. He was a regular on Good Morning Australia with Kerri-Anne Kennerley, and served as the sports anchor for 10 News Sydney. A career highlight came with his involvement in 10’s coverage of the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics.
An innovator in television, McNeice played a key role in bringing satellite TV to Australia. He became the face and founding Executive Producer of satellite television service Club Superstation from 1985 to 1987 and was instrumental in its transformation into Sky Channel, where his influence was pivotal in the establishment of Sky Racing.
Sky Thoroughbred Central’s chief presenter Greg Radley told the Daily Telegraph, “If it wasn’t for Graham there would be no Sky. He was an incredible help to me right throughout my career when I first started in radio and eventually moved to television.’’
His company, Shadow Productions produced Crime Investigation Australia, Thanks for Listening, Tulloch, That’s Racing, That’s Rugby League, That’s Boxing, Fenech and one project close to his heart, The Train: Granville Rail Disaster, narrated by the late Brian Henderson.
He was also in the midst of creating a documentary for Foxtel on his best friend, TV and entertainment legend Brian Walsh, who passed away in 2023.
‘Shadow’ also played a significant role in shaping the careers of Matt Shirvington, Scott Miller, Peter Overton, and Matt Le Nevez.
“It’s a very sad day, we have lost a beautiful soul,’’ John Singleton said. “No one has a bad word to say about Graham and that is so rare in the media industry.’’
Racing NSW chief executive Peter V’landys said, “Even with all his contributions and achievements, the memory I have is of a beautiful human being. The racing and media family has lost one of its most popular members.’’
Ray Warren added, “Graham was a great friend, rich in sincerity. He was meaningful, helpful, charitable and highly ambitious. His work ethic was incredible, he was prepared to work eight days in seven.’’
McNeice’s latest production, The Rise & Fall of Kings Cross, is set to air later this year on the Seven Network.
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