Racing lost one of its most respected journalists when John Greensill died in Melbourne on Tuesday.

Greensill, 68, started as a cadet at Truth newspaper in 1958 before an extended spell travelling overseas.  Back in Australia, he worked at The Herald and later returned to Truth during its halcyon days as Australia’s premier form guide.

When Ron Taylor retired, Greensill took over as Truth’s editor and remained there until 2001.  In recent years, he worked at AAP, Winning Post and Racing Victoria.

He won numerous industry tipping awards and was a Life Member of the Victorian Racing Media Association.

A gentleman and a calming influence when print deadlines loomed, Greensill was nevertheless known to stress out when his beloved Fitzroy / Brisbane Lions were playing.

Greensill is survived by his wife Marie and children Martin and Josephine.

A Requiem Mass will be offered at St Kevin’s Catholic Church in Lower Templestowe on Friday at 2pm.