Dennis Cometti, the ‘Voice of Football’, Laid to Rest in State Memorial at Optus Stadium

Key facts

• Dennis Cometti died in March 2025 at age 76.
• The state memorial service was held Monday at Optus Stadium in Perth.
• The service took place in the Riverview Room; the stadium’s media centre is named after Cometti.
• WA Premier Roger Cook and Opposition Leader Basil Zempilas attended.
• Bruce McAvaney delivered a tribute to his long-time commentary partner.
• Channel 7 presenters Susannah Carr and Rick Ardon shared memories of 16 years working with Cometti.

A Farewell Fitting for a Legend

Western Australia bid a final farewell to Dennis Cometti, one of the nation’s most revered sports broadcasters, at a state memorial service held Monday at Optus Stadium. The service, which took place in the Riverview Room, drew dignitaries, colleagues, and fans to honour the man known as the ‘voice of football’. Cometti, who died in March at age 76, spent decades behind the microphone for the Seven Network, calling some of Australian rules football’s most iconic moments. The stadium where he was remembered already bears his name in the media centre, a permanent reminder of his contribution to the sport.

High-Profile Attendees and Emotional Tributes

The service was attended by WA Premier Roger Cook and state Opposition Leader Basil Zempilas, a former colleague of Cometti’s. Bruce McAvaney, Cometti’s long-time commentary partner, delivered a stirring tribute that moved many in the room. McAvaney’s words, described as a ‘heart warming tribute’, reflected on their years together and the unique gift Cometti had for connecting with audiences. The event also featured reflections from Channel 7 presenters Susannah Carr and Rick Ardon, who shared a desk with Cometti for 16 years.

A Life Celebrated Across the Sporting World

The memorial was not just a state occasion but a gathering of the broader sporting community, with high-profile Australian figures paying their respects. The service was broadcast live on 7plus, allowing fans across the country to participate in the farewell. Cometti’s impact extended beyond the commentary box; he was widely regarded as a master of his craft, known for his distinctive voice and insightful calls. His death prompted an outpouring of grief from players, clubs, and fans alike.

The Man Behind the Microphone

Dennis Cometti AM was more than a commentator; he was a cultural touchstone for generations of AFL followers. His career spanned decades, and his voice became synonymous with the game itself. The state memorial service was a testament to his status as a beloved figure in Australian sport. The service also highlighted his personal qualities, with colleagues remembering his humour, humility, and professionalism. The decision to hold a state memorial underscored the esteem in which he was held by both the public and officialdom.

A Legacy Etched in Stadium Stone

Optus Stadium’s media centre, named after Cometti, stands as a lasting tribute to his contribution to sports broadcasting. The choice of venue for the memorial was symbolic, linking his legacy directly to the modern home of AFL in Western Australia. As the service concluded, the focus shifted to the enduring impact of his work. For many, Cometti’s voice remains the soundtrack to countless football memories, a legacy that will continue to resonate long after the final tribute.

The bottom line

• Dennis Cometti, aged 76, was honoured with a state memorial service at Optus Stadium on Monday.
• The service was attended by WA Premier Roger Cook, Opposition Leader Basil Zempilas, and Bruce McAvaney, who gave a tribute.
• Channel 7 presenters Susannah Carr and Rick Ardon recalled 16 years of working alongside Cometti.
• Cometti’s media centre at Optus Stadium is named in his honour, cementing his legacy in the venue.
• The memorial was broadcast on 7plus, allowing nationwide participation in the farewell.