Legendary radio and television presenter Peter Waltham dies aged 83

Beloved radio and television presenter Peter Waltham has died. He was 83.

Beginning his career in the 1960s, the broadcasting veteran was one of the first newsreaders at Channel Seven Perth.

His long and storied career also saw stints at Channel Nine as well as 25 years as a presenter on Curtin Radio. 

Peter was also a regular fixture on Channel Seven’s long-running Telethon.

Tributes have flooded in for the beloved newsman, with former Seven presenter and current State Opposition Leader, Basil Zempilas hailing Peter as a ‘trailblazer.’

‘There was an aura about him as a news presenter,’ he told the West Australian.

Beloved radio and television presenter Peter Waltham has died aged 83

‘He was the one who gave me a spark going into news. I was told that if you wanted someone who could ad lib with no preparation time, Peter Waltham was as good as you could get.

‘It’s very sad news, he was a trailblazer of that generation.’

Curtin FM, which is owned an operated by Curtin University, also remembered Peter as a ‘cherished colleague.’

‘Curtin FM 100.1 and Curtin University are deeply saddened by the passing of Peter Waltham — a cherished colleague, friend and veteran broadcaster who made an extraordinary contribution to Western Australia’s media landscape,’ they said in a statement shared to Facebook on Sunday.

‘For the past 25 years, Peter found a home at Curtin FM Radio, presenting the much-loved Down Memory Lane and Mornings programs — bringing music, stories and warmth to generations of loyal listeners,’ the statement continued.

‘Peter was widely recognised across the state – not just for his on-air presence, but for his genuine interest in people.’

He was also remembered as an affable presenter who always had time for his listeners. 

‘He never rushed past a fan, always willing to stop, have a chat and share a story. That easy rapport and steady presence made him a mate to many.

Beginning his career in the 1960’s the broadcasting veteran was one of the first newsreaders at Channel 7 Perth

His long and storied career also saw stints at Channel 9 as well as 25 years as a presenter on Curtin Radio. Peter was also a regular fixture on Channel Seven’s long-running Telethon

‘To Curtin FM listeners, Peter was more than a presenter — he was a comforting voice, a companion through the decades and a link to cherished memories. To us, he was a mentor and a friend.’

The announcement was met with an outpouring of condolences from listeners with many sharing their own recollections of the beloved presenter

Fellow Curtin Radio presenter Jamie Mercanti said that Peter was a ‘true legend.’

‘No words, but many emotions,’ he commented.

‘Mostly, my immense gratitude for Peter’s support and camaraderie since October 2022 when I started at Curtin Radio.’

Jamie’s expansive tribute continued: ‘My deepest sympathy to Peter’s family, friends, supporters and those that appreciated his unique ability to be a highly effective communicator. 

‘I am abundantly aware of the magnitude of Peter’s career in the media and the honour of being in the presence of a true legend.’

One fan also commented: ‘A true gentleman and a wonderful human being. Will be missed by many.’

Tributes have flooded in for the beloved newsman, with former Seven presenter and current State Opposition Leader, Basil Zempilas hailing Peter as a ‘trailblazer’

Summing up the sentiment of many, another offered: ‘I’ve listened to Peter’s news reading on Channel 7 for a very long time since my Uni days and to his 9 to midday program with his beautiful selection of songs for a long time. 

‘May you rest in peace, Peter. You will be sadly missed.’

Facebook account Lost Perth also paid tribute to Peter, remembering him as ‘a trusted face in our living rooms and a warm, steady voice on our radios.’

‘Peter had a way of making you feel seen, remembered, and part of something bigger. His gift wasn’t just in broadcasting — it was in connection. He told our stories, played our songs, and reminded us where we came from,’ they wrote.

‘Around the state, Peter was known for his humility, humour, and kindness. He had time for everyone — never too busy for a smile, a yarn, or a quiet word of encouragement. 

‘He made you feel like a mate, whether he knew you for five minutes or fifty years.’