4BC Brisbane Mornings host Bill McDonald announced at the end of at the end of his Friday program on September 26 that he was leaving the radio station.

The Sydney Morning Herald reports: Confirming that show would be his last at 4BC, the veteran Brisbane journalist said he plans to focus on a new role covering the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games – however he didn’t disclose any specific details regarding whether it was with a particular media or government outlet, or if it would also include the upcoming LA Games.

“That’s it for me, I’m calling it quits, I’m signing off – not just for the week but for the last time today,” McDonald said on Friday.

“I had 30 years in television and after that I wanted to have a go at radio and I have loved the last five years here at 4BC.”

He said his coverage last year of the 2024 Paris Games, including calling five gold medals, had “lit a bit of a fuse” and he wanted to pursue a new direction in the lead-up to Brisbane 2032.

“I love the Olympics, so after a bit of a break that’s what I’m going to do, chase my Olympic dream.

“There’s so much to do in the next five years in this city to get it ready for the Olympic Games and I hope to play or contribute in some way to that.”

The host had been at 4BC for five years, first as its Weekend Breakfast announcer before taking over the Mornings role.

His extensive TV career has included presenting news on both Channel Seven and Ten, as well as co-hosting a documentary series traversing the Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea. He has also covered AFL for Triple M.

4BC content manager Siobhain McDonnell praised McDonald’s tenure at the Brisbane station and contribution to broadcasting and said the task of replacing the experienced news man was now under way.

“From flood coverage to his success as ‘Medals McDonald’ for his Olympics coverage, Bill has done it all and we wish him nothing but success as he pursues his next venture,” she said.

“Bill, on behalf of everyone thank you for everything you have done for 4BC and our listeners. You’ve been a great colleague to everyone in the building. An interim plan for 4BC Mornings will be announced shortly, with a permanent host to be announced in due course.”