Westpac chief economist and 7NEWS contributor Bill Evans dies aged 76

Former 7NEWS finance contributor and Westpac Chief Economist Bill Evans has died. His family confirmed in a statement that the 76-year-old had passed away at Melbourne’s Alfred Hospital on Tuesday night following a hard-fought battle with cancer. “Over a distinguished career spanning decades, Bill made an extraordinary contribution to Australia’s economic and financial landscape through his insight and integrity,” the statement read. “Beyond his professional achievements, Bill was a much-loved husband, father and grandfather and we are devastated by his passing. “He will be remembered as a force — a kind and thoughtful man who was at the centre of every conversation and lit up every room. “He will be deeply missed. “Bill passed away on his 76th birthday. We are grateful for the years we had together and thank all his family, friends and former colleagues for their support at this time. “Bill is survived by his wife Evelyn, son Robert, sister Helen, and grandchildren Olivia, William and Poppy.” Evans joined Seven’s daytime news programs as a daily guest providing market updates, alongside a high profile career at the major Australian bank. “He knew everything about the economy, but he would always explain things in a way that everyone could understand,” Westpac CEO Anthony Miller said in a statement. “That’s a rare gift.” Evans joined Westpac as a chief economist in 1991, launching his career that would span an incredible 30 years at the bank.