Khaberni - The death of Rob Hirst, the legendary drummer in the famous rock band "Midnight Oil", has caused a shock in the global music world, following a struggle that lasted about three years with pancreatic cancer.
His bandmates published on the band's social media pages: "After a heroic struggle that lasted about three years, Rob is now free from pain – a faint light in the wilderness".
They added: "He died peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones. The family asks anyone who wishes to honor Rob to donate to either pankind australia or supportact".
Hirst grew up in Sydney and co-founded the band "The Oils" in 1972 with his friend Jim Moginie, before Peter Garrett and Martin Rotsey joined to make the band one of the most prominent live rock bands in Australia, known for its politically active music and advocacy for the rights of indigenous people.
Hirst was known for his power behind the drums and his unique performance, and he also contributed vocals to some of the classic songs. He launched his last music project A Hundred Years or More in 2024 with Moginie and Hamish Stuart, having previously excelled in several side bands including Ghostwriters and Backsliders.
Hirst was a lover of nature and the Australian environment, and an activist in environmental protection, where he swam daily. Pancreatic cancer was diagnosed at stage three in April 2023, six months after the band's last concert in October 2022.
