Peter Murphy to retire as Australia’s longest-serving commercial TV weather presenter – Departing 7NEWS Tasmania after a four-decade run.
Tasmanians will farewell a familiar and much-loved face on Monday, 22 September, when Peter “Murph” Murphy presents his final weather report on 7NEWS Tasmania, marking the close of an extraordinary career in Australian television.
Murph’s calm presence and warm personality have made him a nightly fixture for Tasmanian audiences for more than 41 years, giving him the record as the longest-serving commercial TV weather presenter in Australia.
Respected for his clear and reliable forecasts, Murph has also brought humour and heart to the role – from his cheeky one-liners to the unmistakable warmth of his on-air partnership with news anchor Kim Millar.
Murph began his broadcasting career in radio in his hometown of Moree before moving to Tasmania in 1982 to join 7EX. Two years later, he was fronting the weather on TNT9. Around the same time, he met Donna Howard. They married in 1992 and welcomed two sons, Jack and Lewis, and so far, two granddaughters.
Beyond the studio, Murph has been deeply involved in the Tasmanian community. As a master of ceremonies, he has hosted countless major community events from New Year’s Eve gatherings to festivals, Cup days around the state and many awards nights, sporting lunches and dinners.
A lifelong Sydney Swans fan and former nightclub DJ, Murph has always found ways to connect with people from all walks of life.
Reflecting on his career, Murph said:
“It’s been an incredible privilege to be part of Tasmanians’ lives every night. Weather is such a big part of this community, and I’ve always tried to respect that while sneaking in a little fun along the way. Tasmania’s weather is unpredictable, the job has been unforgettable and the people have made it all worthwhile.
“Being part of such a strong performing news team over so many years has been especially rewarding. An award of some sort should also be bestowed upon Kim Millar and Jo Palmer for their ability to have withstood so much over the years.
“My wife Donna, of course, has been along for the entire period as well and no doubt is looking forward to spending every waking moment of every day with me from now on,”
– he said.
Seven’s Director of News in Tasmania, Gavin McDougall, said Murph’s contribution to the state’s news and broadcasting is immeasurable.
“Peter Murphy is more than a weather presenter – he’s part of the fabric of Tasmanian life. His commitment, professionalism and connection with viewers have set an extremely high standard,”
– he said.
“His departure marks the end of an incredible chapter in our television history. Peter leaves behind a remarkable legacy in regional television – one of consistency, credibility, and community connection.”
Continuing Murph’s legacy of trusted forecasting for Tasmanian viewers will be current weekend weather presenter Kiah Wicks, who’ll be stepping into the weekday role.
Kiah said:
“This has been a dream of mine since I was a girl. I am so excited to be joining Kim Millar and the rest of the weekday team. It’s hard to replace the legend that is Murph, but I’ll be bringing my own brand of weather smarts to the job.”
Murph’s farewell will be broadcast Monday, 22 September at 6.00pm on 7NEWS Tasmania, featuring a special tribute to his remarkable contribution to Tasmanian television.
7NEWS Tasmania – Nightly at 6.00pm on Seven and 7plus
Media Release – Seven
TV Central Seven content HERE
Peter Murphy to retire as Australia’s longest-serving commercial TV weather presenter
