The sports industry and media have paid tribute to television reporter Nathan Templeton, who died aged 44.
It is understood Templeton was found in a park near the Barwon River on Tuesday, after having a medical episode while walking his dog. His death is not considered suspicious.
He is survived by his wife and two children.
Templeton spent a quarter of a century in the media, with his first lead on-air role at Ten News in Melbourne beginning in 2004.
In 2012, he moved to Channel Seven, where he covered several Olympic and Commonwealth Games and also tennis and AFL. In particular, he became known for his work as a poolside reporter, speaking to Australian swimmers before and after races.
Templeton also spent six years as the Melbourne correspondent for the Sunrise breakfast show.
He had not been in an on-air role since 2022.
His family released a statement Wednesday, saying simply: “Our hearts are broken for an adoring father and wonderful friend, who will be missed by many.”
Australian Olympic Committee president Ian Chesterman paid tribute to Templeton on behalf of the Olympic team and the many athletes he had met.
“He loved participating in the Olympic Games and working with our sports and Olympians on many events and activities,” Chesterman said.
“Nathan was always a friendly, knowledgeable and totally fair face. Many in the Olympic family will be deeply saddened because Nathan was one of the really good people we worked with who really cared about our athletes.”
Sunrise posted a message on the show’s Facebook feed saying “I love you Tempo.” ️
“The tragic news of Nathan’s passing has left us all at Sunrise and Seven deeply saddened.
“Nathan was a respected journalist whose passion for telling stories was evident in all his years reporting for Sunrise and various Olympic Games.
“Our deepest condolences go out to his family, his loved ones and especially his two young children, during this difficult time.”
His former colleague at Channel 10, sports broadcaster and news presenter Stephen Quartermain, was among those to pay tribute to Templeton.
“It’s hard to fathom Nathan Templeton being gone. So young, vibrant, talented and cheeky. That’s how I’ll remember him. Ok and rest in peace,” Quartermain posted on X, formerly Twitter.
Templeton, who lived in Geelong and was a fan of the Cats AFL team, was an announcer and MC at Kardinia Park for six years.
“He brought his love of the Cats and football to his role on match day, and created a great connection with fans with his knowledge, vitality and energy,” Geelong chief executive Steve Hocking said in a statement.
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