Mark Beretta’s mystery woman is a mystery no more. The veteran Sunrise presenter is quietly dating Renata Hickson, a decorated soldier and respected National Operations and Impact Manager with the Indigenous Marathon Foundation. Renata has been a steadfast support for Beretta during one of the most emotionally challenging years of his life.
Beretta, 59, recently hinted at having a ‘special friend’ who was helping him navigate his exit from Sunrise, the devastating death of his father David in September, and his mother Joan’s ongoing battle with cancer. At the time, he refrained from naming her, simply stating, “Dad loved her, which is great. She’s great.”
Unveiling a New Romance
The identity of the glamorous brunette has now been revealed. Renata Hickson has emerged as the woman by Mark’s side during his private turmoil and new chapter. On December 9, Mark was photographed enjoying a relaxed afternoon stroll with Renata and her dog around Balmoral on Sydney’s Lower North Shore. The couple appeared very much in love, walking side by side and sharing warm conversation as they took in the sunny views.
An onlooker commented that they appeared “very connected and very comfortable together.” This follows an earlier hint Mark shared online in October, when he posted a smiling photo of himself and Renata at Admiralty House in Sydney. The pair posed alongside Governor General Sam Mostyn at an event honoring runners preparing for the New York City Marathon. Although Mark did not tag his companion at the time, the image now confirms Renata’s presence at key moments in his life long before the relationship became public.
Renata Hickson: A Profile of Strength and Service
Hailing from Hobart, Tasmania, Renata holds a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Arts (Political Science) from the University of Tasmania, as well as a Master of Teaching. She boasts a 17-year military career, during which she became Australia’s first female in a combat role as a Tank Squadron Commander. Among her high-octane roles, she was a lead planner for the United States Special Operations Command in Syria, earning multiple commendations for her service.
Currently, Renata focuses on empowering First Nations voices through her work at the Indigenous Marathon Foundation. Her impressive background and commitment to social causes have made her a respected figure in both military and civilian circles.
A Year of Transition for Mark Beretta
Behind the scenes, it has been a year marked by grief and transition for the beloved sports presenter. In September, Beretta announced the heartbreaking loss of his father, sharing a moving tribute on Instagram.
“Kind, generous, adventurous, good fun, hard-working, and loving,” he wrote. “I will always be proud of being Dave’s son.”
Messages of support poured in from colleagues including Sam Mac, Edwina Bartholomew, Larry Emdur, Kylie Gillies, and Dr. Chris Brown.
Mark also revealed he had become a grandfather last year, describing the experience as “the best” and joking that he hopes to soon teach little Arlo to say “cool Pa.” But as family responsibilities grow, Beretta confirmed in early December that he is stepping away from Sunrise after 22 years. His final show will air on Friday, December 12.
“After a lot of long nights thinking about it, the time is right for me to step away,” he said. “Losing Dad to cancer two months ago, and Mum fighting on against the disease, has made me see the world a little differently. Family time has become even more important.”
Looking Ahead
The move represents a significant shift for Beretta, who has been a fixture on Australian morning television for over two decades. As he steps into this new phase of life, supported by Renata, he faces the future with a renewed focus on family and personal well-being.
Daily Mail has reached out to Mark Beretta for comment, but the long-time Sunrise favorite has not publicly dated anyone since the breakdown of his marriage. He was briefly linked to nutritionist Sarah Di Lorenzo. Mark married ex-wife Rachel in 2001 after meeting in 1999, and the pair confirmed their separation in October 2023 after 22 years together. They share children Ava and Ben and are grandparents to Ava’s young son Arlo.
“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 a statement at the time. “We remain good friends, and our two children and grandchildren remain our focus and priority as we move forward with love, dignity, and respect.”
As Beretta closes one chapter and begins another, his journey reflects the resilience and adaptability that have characterized his career and personal life. With Renata by his side, he is poised to embrace the changes and challenges that lie ahead.
