In memory of Shane Patrick Teehan

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Shane Teehan on the 3rd of May, 2026 after a two and a half year battle with cancer. 

Born in Rotorua, New Zealand, Shane grew up alongside his siblings, David, Susan, and Joanne and his loving parents Jan and Brian Teehan. 

A mischievous and spirited child, Shane's stories brought laughter to all who knew him (including the story where he accidently burned down the family home at aged five when playing with matches under his bed). 

As a young man, Shane was a talented athlete. He played Rugby Union – inspired by the mighty All-Blacks and coached by his Dad – and became a successful swimmer, representing New Zealand at an elite level.

Shane always had a passion for adventure and storytelling. He travelled across the world as a journalist capturing parts of the world often unseen. Shane travelled to conflicts across West Papua, Indonesia, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Kosovo, Pakistan, and Afghanistan to name a few. He picked up the nickname “Bullet Dodger” in reference to a variety of dangerous scenarios he somehow managed to survive (such as a three month stint in captivity in Afghanistan). 

Over the course of his career he produced and shot documentaries for 60 Minutes, TVNZ, Channel 4, Dateline, the United Nations, and Journeyman Pictures and Insight News.

In 1999 he married his beloved wife Jacquie and in 2001 his daughter Brooke was born in North Macedonia while he was working in Kosovo for the UN.

Since 2014, he has been an important member of the Inner West Council, working in various roles to communicate and connect with the local community.

In 2024, Shane was diagnosed with Stage 4 prostate cancer and in 2025 began treatment at the Chris O’Brien Lifehouse. Throughout the process of his cancer journey, Lifehouse provided exceptional and compassionate care to Shane and his family. We hope that his friends can donate to support the care of other families impacted by cancer and fund future research to cure this horrendous disease. 

His life, though cut short, was rich in love, laughter, and adventure. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered by those fortunate enough to have known him.