Long-time ABC presenter Russell Woolf has died at the age of 56. Woolf was the host of the breakfast program on ABC Radio Perth and had previously hosted the Drive program, over a career with the national broadcaster that spanned more than two decades. He was also the weather presenter for the ABC’s West Australian television news from 2007 to 2011.

Woolf was also a former political candidate for a West Australian Senate seat.

He is understood to have died in his sleep at his Perth home.

ABC colleague, radio presenter Geoff Hutchison made the shock announcement on ABC Radio Perth, describing Woolf as “our beloved friend and colleague”.

“It has come as a huge shock to us,” Hutchison said.

“Russell as you know is a much-loved and much-cherished part of our ABC family and we’re going to battle to find words for a little while this morning.”

Woolf is survived by his wife Kylie and young daughter Bronte.

“Our thoughts really are with Russell’s wife Kylie and Bronte, and we’re giving them every support we can,” Hutchison said.

Story courtesy of ABC website.