Graham “Shadow” McNeice
1948-2024
Graham McNeice was a documentary film-maker, TV presenter, race caller and sports commentator on radio and television.
Graham – along with Bill Owens and Bob Paxton was behind the Wests Magpies appearances on ‘Rugby League New Faces’ in 1979 & 1980.
Graham was a long time Magpies Supporter.
Frank Kennedy.
His career kicked off after a chance connection with Frank Kennedy, a prominent commentator and promoter in racing and boxing.
Graham became Kennedy’s protégé and at the age of 17 made a name for himself as a race caller on 2UE.
He earned the nickname Shadow after fellow broadcaster Peter Bosley “Boz” quipped on-air that Graham’s silhouette “cast a giant shadow over Canterbury racetrack.”
Graham was regular on Good Morning Australia and worked as a sports anchor on Network Ten.
Graham and John Tapp.
He helped bring satellite television to Australia, and was the founding executive producer of Club Superstation, transforming it into Sky Channel and Sky Racing.
Outside of sports, Graham had a passion for documentary film-making and produced a number of programs including Crime Investigation Australia.
His work included Thanks for Listening, Tulloch, That’s Racing, That’s Rugby League, That’s Boxing, Fenech and The Train – Granville Rail Disaster narrated by the late Brian Henderson.
He has been praised for playing a role in shaping the careers of television and sporting figures such as Matt Shirvington, Scott Miller, Matt Le Nevez and Pete Overton.
Peter Overton paid tribute to McNeice during his news broadcast on Thursday, saying his was the godfather of his daughter.
Sky Racking caller Darren Flindell said on social media it was a profound loss for the industry.
“Shadow was the most selfless, caring man I have had the honour to call a close friend,” he wrote on X .
“Dealing with numerous health issues this year, Graham passed peacefully, feeling much loved by his family and vast array of friends, many of whom had their careers shaped and nurtured by this brilliant man.
His latest production The Rise & Fall of Kings Cross will be aired on Network Seven later this year.
Graham McNeice was a beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, and mentor to many.
