Former 7NEWS finance contributor and Westpac Chief Economist Bill Evans has died. “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. “Bill passed away on his 76th birthday. Be the first to know: Add 7NEWS as your preferred news source on Google“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.