Remembering Judith Whelan: A Trailblazer in Media and Journalism

Judith Whelan, a prominent figure in Australian media and journalism, passed away on Wednesday afternoon after a courageous battle with cancer. Whelan, who served as the editor of The Sydney Morning Herald and held senior executive positions at the ABC, is being remembered as a trailblazer for women in the industry and a staunch advocate for quality reporting.

During her tenure at The Sydney Morning Herald, Whelan made history as one of only three women to have assumed the role of editor in the publication’s nearly two-century existence. Her leadership extended to editing the renowned Good Weekend magazine for seven years, a period marked by innovation and success.

Whelan’s passing took place at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, where she was surrounded by her family including her husband Christopher Henning, daughter Sophia, and son Patrick. Her legacy at The Sydney Morning Herald, where she spent over three decades, continues to resonate with colleagues and readers alike, who fondly remember her keen editorial insights and compassionate leadership.

Bevan Shields, the current editor of The Sydney Morning Herald, expressed the newsroom’s deep sorrow at Whelan’s passing, highlighting her exceptional qualities as an editor, colleague, and friend. Her impact on the publication, both professionally and personally, remains indelible.

Lisa Davies, who served as the Herald’s editor from 2017 to 2021, lauded Whelan’s journalistic prowess and dedication to nurturing talent within the industry. Whelan’s commitment to empowering women in media and fostering a culture of excellence has left an enduring mark on the field.

Whelan’s illustrious career spanned various roles at the ABC, where she held key positions such as Head of Specialist Content and Director of Regional and Local. Her colleagues at the national broadcaster remember her as a fierce advocate for truth and accountability, a mentor to many young journalists, and a fearless voice in the newsroom.

David Anderson, the Managing Director of the ABC, paid tribute to Whelan’s enduring legacy, emphasizing her unwavering commitment to journalism and her compassionate leadership style. Whelan’s passing represents a significant loss to the media industry and all those who had the privilege of working alongside her.