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As Sunrise favourite Mark Beretta says goodbye after 22 years on the breakfast show, the beloved sports presenter has opened up more than ever about the personal challenges that shaped his decision — and the special woman who quietly supported him through it all.
Mark is no longer married, but he has found love again. And in recent days, the identity of his new partner has finally been revealed.
Who is Mark Beretta’s new partner?
Mark’s new girlfriend is Sydney woman Renata Hickson, who was photographed walking arm-in-arm with him around Balmoral on December 9.
According to New Idea, onlookers described the pair as “very loved up” as they walked with Renata’s dog, sharing an intimate and relaxed moment ahead of Mark’s final Sunrise broadcast.
While the photos are new, Renata has been a meaningful part of Mark’s life for much longer. In a recent interview with the Daily Telegraph, the 59-year-old Sunrise star spoke glowingly about his new flame.
“I do have a friend at the moment,” he said. He described her as “super kind and super supportive,” adding, “She’s been by my side through the time with Dad, and Dad loved her, which is great. She’s great.”
Mark hasn’t revealed when the relationship began, but several details give us clues.. Renata was a steady presence as Mark lost his father, David earlier this year and navigated his mother Joan’s ongoing cancer battle.
The couple also quietly attended an Admiralty House event in October, posing with Governor-General Sam Mostyn. Mark shared the snap on Instagram but didn’t tag Renata — a subtle sign he was protecting the relationship while life behind the scenes was shifting.
Their Balmoral outing appears to be their first proper step into the public eye together — and they seem completely at ease.
Is Mark Beretta still married?
Mark is no longer married, after he and his ex-wife, Rachel, separated after 22 years together in October 2023. The pair met in 1999, married in 2001, and built a family with their two kids, Ava and Dan. They’re also doting grandparents to little Arlo, Ava’s son.
“At the start of the year, after a great deal of reflection and 22 years of marriage, Rach and I came to the conclusion that a separation was best for us,” Mark said in his original statement.
“We remain good friends, and our two children and grandchildren remain our focus and priority as we move forward with love, dignity and respect.”
Rachel has largely stayed out of the spotlight, and the former couple continues to co-parent warmly and privately.
The separation was confirmed in late 2023, but the decision came earlier that year. It followed what Mark now describes as “a harrowing couple of years,” including both his parents’ cancer diagnoses and the emotional toll of trying to hold family and career together.
Why Mark is really leaving Sunrise
Officially, Mark says he’s stepping away to care for his mum Joan and reclaim precious family time. But in his Daily Telegraph interview, he opened up even further about the decision.
He admitted Sunrise wasn’t just a clean break — it was mutual, and it was time.
“I could see what was coming and I didn’t want to hang around for that,” he said, reflecting on the future of free-to-air TV and the pressures of the industry.
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