Beloved Channel Seven star quits the network after 41 years: ‘The end of an incredible chapter’

He has been telling Tasmanians which way the wind blows for decades.

And after a career spanning an impressive 41 years, weatherman Peter Murphy has announced his retirement.

The beloved Channel Seven star has had the honour of being the longest-serving weatherman in Australian television history.

Announcing his retirement on Wednesday, Peter said his long and storied career had been a ‘privilege’.   

‘It’s been an incredible privilege to be part of Tasmanians’ lives every night,’ he said in a statement.

‘Weather is such a big part of this community, and I’ve always tried to respect that while sneaking in a little fun along the way.’ 

After a career spanning an impressive 41 years, Channel Seven weatherman Peter Murphy has announced his retirement

He continued: ‘Tasmania’s weather is unpredictable, the job has been unforgettable and the people have made it all worthwhile.’

Peter was quick to thank his wife of 33 years, Donna, whom he met just as his illustrious career began. 

‘My wife Donna, of course, has been along for the entire period as well and no doubt is looking forward to spending every waking moment of every day with me from now on,’ he said.

Peter was also full of praise for the 7News Tasmania team, adding that its presenters deserve an award. 

‘Being part of such a strong-performing news team over so many years has been especially rewarding,’ he said.

‘An award of some sort should also be bestowed upon Kim Millar and Jo Palmer for their ability to have withstood so much over the years.’

News director Gavin McDougall lauded Peter as a consummate professional who left an indelible mark on the Tasmanian landscape.  

‘Peter Murphy is more than a weather presenter – he’s part of the fabric of Tasmanian life,’ Gavin said.

‘It’s been an incredible privilege to be part of Tasmanians’ lives every night,’ he said in a statement. ‘Weather is such a big part of this community, and I’ve always tried to respect that while sneaking in a little fun along the way’ 

The beloved Channel Seven star has the honour of being the longest-serving weatherman in Australian television history 

Peter’s last broadcast is set for Monday, 22 September, after which he will hand the reins to weekend weather presenter Kiah Wicks

‘His commitment, professionalism and connection with viewers have set an extremely high standard.

‘His departure marks the end of an incredible chapter in our television history.’

Gavin’s tribute continued: ‘Peter leaves behind a remarkable legacy in regional television – one of consistency, credibility, and community connection.’

Aside from beaming into Tassie loungerooms for the past 40 years, Peter has long been a fixture of the community away from the studio, emceeing various events such as New Year’s celebrations, cup days and awards ceremonies. 

Peter’s last broadcast is set for Monday, 22 September, after which he will hand the reins to weekend weather presenter Kiah Wicks. 

Speaking about her new appointment, Kiah admitted that while chuffed, she certainly had some big shoes to fill.

‘This has been a dream of mine since I was a girl. It’s hard to replace the legend that is Murph, but I’ll be bringing my own brand of weather smarts to the job,’ she said.

Kicking off his career on radio in his hometown of Moree in northern New South Wales, Peter moved to Tasmania in 1982 to join station 7EX.

Two years after the move, Peter began presenting the weather on TNT9 and the rest is history. 

Away from the camera, Peter married wife Donna in 1992, with the couple welcoming two sons – Jack and Lewis.