Ric Ditchburn passed on 8 January 2026 in the Geelong Hospital ICU from effects of cancer treatment, an infection and heart issues.

Ric worked in radio in Australia and New Zealand at stations including Radio Avon (NZ) and 3GL Geelong but was best known for his work on Magic 693 Melbourne, where he presented the drive show amongst other shifts. In 2011 Ric had heart surgery but was back on air as soon as he could, to the delight of his audience.

In 2015, after the station was bought by Fairfax, Ric was let go along with many other presenters at the time.

Tony Tardio paid tribute to Ric on X, saying: “He was a radio professional with an engaging style and knew how to tell a story. He was also a very sweet soul.”