Bruce McAvaney (born 8 December 1951) is an Australian sports commentator and television presenter who is best known for his work with the Seven Network in Australia. He began his career in television in 1975, working as a sports reporter for the Seven Network in Adelaide.
Over the decades, McAvaney has become a much-loved member of the Australian media landscape. He is best known for his work as a sports commentator, having covered everything from Australian Rules Football and horse racing to cricket and the Olympics.
McAvaney is also well-known for his hosting of the Seven Network’s annual coverage of the Melbourne Cup. He has been involved in the broadcast of the event since 1992, and is known for his trademark phrase “It’s the Melbourne Cup”. He also hosts the Seven Network’s annual broadcast of the AFL Grand Final, and was the host of the network’s coverage of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.
McAvaney’s on-screen presence has earned him a number of awards over the years. These include nine Logies, five Australian Sports Commission awards, two South Australian Media Awards, and the Medal of the Order of Australia for his services to broadcasting and the community.
Off-screen, McAvaney is a passionate and active campaigner for a number of causes, including conservation of the environment, animal welfare, and community support. He is a long-time supporter of the charity Variety, and has served as the patron of the Variety Victoria Children’s Charity since 1996.
McAvaney is also a keen supporter of the arts and was the founding chairman of the South Australian Film Corporation from 1993 to 1997. He also served on the board of the South Australian Film Corporation from 1997 to 2001.
The popularity of Bruce McAvaney has been firmly cemented over the years as a result of his natural enthusiasm and passion for the sports he covers and the causes he supports. His commitment to bringing sporting events to the public has made him an Australian icon and an inspiration to many.
