Home / Arts and Entertainment / Midnight Oil Drummer Rob Hirst Dies at 70
Midnight Oil Drummer Rob Hirst Dies at 70
20 Jan
Summary
- Midnight Oil drummer and founding member Rob Hirst passed away at age 70.
- Hirst bravely battled stage three pancreatic cancer for nearly three years.
- He was a key lyricist and composer for iconic songs like 'Beds Are Burning'.
Rob Hirst, the influential drummer and a founding member of the celebrated Australian rock band Midnight Oil, has died at the age of 70. His passing was confirmed on Tuesday afternoon following a courageous, nearly three-year battle with stage three pancreatic cancer, a diagnosis he received in 2023.
Hirst was not only recognized for his fierce drumming but also as a pivotal songwriter, co-creating lyrics and melodies for anthems such as 'Beds Are Burning' and 'The Dead Heart.' His bandmate Jim Moginie described him as the band's 'engine room,' praising his sharp intellect and humor.
Born in New South Wales in 1955, Hirst's musical journey began early. He co-founded Midnight Oil with Jim Moginie in 1972, later joined by Peter Garrett in 1975. The band released 13 studio albums over nearly five decades, becoming a powerful voice in Australian music.
Hirst also contributed to other musical projects, including Ghostwriters, Backsliders, the Angry Tradesmen, and the surf rock band the Break. He openly advocated for voluntary assisted dying, questioning why individuals should endure prolonged suffering when alternatives exist.
Rob Hirst is survived by his wife, Leslie Holland, and their three daughters, Alexandra, Gabriella, and Jay O'Shea. His family has requested donations to Pankind, Pancreatic Cancer Australia, or Support Act in his memory.
