Veteran Radio announcer Rod Tiley has passed away after a long battle with cancer, aged 66.

He retired from 6PR, Perth in March this year having been diagnosed with liver cancer in October 2015.  He had been with 6PR since 2011, capping a 40+ year career in radio. Before that he’d been at 4BC, living in Brisbane for many years.

A statement from the station said: “6PR is saddened to announce the passing of Rod Tiley. Rod passed away this morning surrounded by his loving family.

“Rod showed an indomitable spirit in recent months as he battled cancer and leaves a proud broadcasting legacy and an indelible mark on those he worked with him and the many listeners who heard his broadcasts.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Rod’s wife Marie, his sons Ben and David, daughter in law Carissa, grandchildren Ella and Connor and his many friends across the country,” 6PR Statement.

Affectionately known as “Mr T”, Rod got his start at 4AM, Mareeba in 1973. From a music presenter he became a sports commentator, news director and then news-talk presenter. 

Rod was news director at 6PR but stepped down from the full-time, full-on role in 2014 to co-host the Weekend Wakeup with Sue McDougall. On top of that he continued to mentor young news talent at the station until he was forced to retire by the disease in March, 2016.

The 6PR broadcast studio was named in Rod’s honour when he retired.