Richard Morecroft, the late Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) news anchor, was widely recognized not only for his broadcasting career but also for his dedication to wildlife rescue and advocacy. Tributes following his recent death have highlighted his longstanding commitment to Australia’s wildlife, particularly his involvement with Wires, the country’s largest wildlife rescue organization.
Morecroft became involved with Wires in the late 1980s after reaching out to volunteer with the group. Mikla Lewis, a co-founder of Wires, recalls being surprised by Morecroft’s phone call expressing his interest in joining the organization. Soon after, Morecroft took on the care of a baby flying fox named Archie, whom he bottle-fed and kept warm against his body during newscasts, at times even sheltering the animal beneath his desk.
The story of Archie and Morecroft’s role as a foster carer was chronicled in both a documentary and a book titled Raising Archie. At the time, flying foxes were often misunderstood and faced hostility, especially in suburban areas where their presence, accompanied by distinctive smells and noises, was unwelcome. Morecroft and fellow volunteers emphasized the ecological importance of these animals, noting that habitat loss was primarily responsible for their decline rather than any inherent problem with the species.
Morecroft remained actively engaged with Wires throughout his life. Beyond his early hands-on work, he contributed his skills in media and communication to support the organization’s efforts, including helping to train volunteers. He also regularly served as an auctioneer at Wires’ annual fundraising event in Sydney. Lewis recalled how, after presenting the ABC’s nightly news, Morecroft would swiftly transition to assist with fundraising activities, demonstrating his generosity and dedication.
Earlier this year, Morecroft was unable to attend Wires’ 40th anniversary due to health issues. He had been diagnosed with cancer and passed away shortly afterward. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paid tribute to Morecroft’s “unyielding humanity” and his deep passion for both the arts and the natural environment, noting the well-known anecdote of the broadcaster caring for a flying fox during news broadcasts.
Morecroft’s approach to wildlife rescue was centered on the goal of returning animals like Archie to the wild, rather than domestication. In a 1989 interview, he emphasized the importance of fostering animals with the aim of rejoining their natural colonies.
His legacy lives on through his contributions to wildlife conservation and the ongoing work of Wires, where his compassion and expertise helped foster greater awareness and care for Australia’s native animals.