Judith Whelan, a trailblazing journalist and former editor of The Sydney Morning Herald (SMH) and ABC executive, has passed away at age 63 after a long battle with cancer.

Whelan began her career at SMH as a cadet in 1985 and rose to become the editor in 2016, known for her leadership, talent-spotting abilities, and dedication to quality journalism.

She held various editorial roles at the Herald, including editor of Good Weekend and Saturday editor, before transitioning to the ABC as director of regional and local content and editorial director.

Whelan was well-known among colleagues for her passion for sports, particularly the Sydney Swans and the Wallabies, and for her kindness and resilience in the face of illness.

She passed away surrounded by family and leaves behind a significant impact on Australian journalism, remembered as a trailblazer for women in media.

Her legacy at SMH, where she worked for over four decades, remains a key part of the publication's history.

Colleagues and friends commemorate her as a compassionate yet formidable journalist who never shied away from speaking the truth, and she will be greatly missed in the journalism community.