Richard Zachariah has died at the age of 80.
The esteemed broadcaster passed away on Wednesday, just four months after the death of his former partner and co-host, Maggie Tabberer.
The pair, who were together for a decade from 1985 to 1995, became one of Australia’s most recognized media couples during their time co-hosting The Home Show on the ABC in the 1990s.
Zachariah’s work spanned television, radio, print, and literature. Alongside his appearances on ABC and Channel 7, he built a respected career as a journalist and radio personality. He also authored several books, including The Vanished Land, which explored the powerful family dynasties of Victoria’s western district.
In a 2017 interview on the ABC’s Conversation Hour, he spoke about his connection to that region and its history. “I love the western district so much,” he said.
Zachariah’s connection to Victoria was personal as well as professional. He attended Hamilton College in western Victoria, where his father was the headmaster, deepening his roots in the area that would later become the subject of his writing.
Beyond his journalism and broadcasting, Zachariah was a self-described racing enthusiast. According to his publisher Wakefield Press, he was a “lifelong racing fanatic.” Over the years, he lived in London, Sydney, and Melbourne, eventually settling in the Adelaide Hills.
Zachariah’s passing comes just months after the death of Maggie Tabberer, a pioneering fashion figure who edited The Australian Women’s Weekly for 15 years starting in 1981. Tabberer also gained national attention as a model and media personality. Together, they brought an engaging and charismatic presence to Australian television.
The pair’s chemistry, both on and off camera, made them a standout duo during their time together, and their partnership left a significant impact on viewers throughout the country.
A funeral service for Zachariah will be held on April 23 at the Eastern Park Chapel in Warrnambool, Victoria. His funeral notice paid tribute to his life and career, describing him as “a colourful character, respected journalist and writer, and lover of life.”
“Always remembered,” the notice added.