In a heart-wrenching announcement, the music world mourns the loss of Rob Hirst, the iconic drummer of Midnight Oil, who passed away at the age of 70. The band shared the sorrowful news through their social media platforms, stating that Hirst "died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones" after a long and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer that lasted nearly three years. The poignant message included a reference to Hirst's enduring spirit, describing him as having become "free of pain — 'a glimmer of tiny light in the wilderness.'"
To honor his memory, the family has requested that those wishing to pay tribute consider making donations to Pankind, Pancreatic Cancer Australia, or Support Act, organizations dedicated to supporting cancer research and the arts community.
Hirst’s journey with pancreatic cancer began in 2023, shortly after Midnight Oil concluded their performances. In a statement released via their management to ABC, the band expressed deep sorrow, saying, "We are shattered and grieving the loss of our brother Rob. For now there are no words but there will always be songs." Hirst was not only the band's drummer; he was also a talented songwriter, contributing to numerous hits such as "Beds Are Burning," "Blue Sky Mine," and "Read About It."
Born in Camden, located in Sydney's south-west, Hirst was a founding member of Midnight Oil and played a pivotal role in shaping the band's sound and identity. Following the announcement of his passing, fellow Australian music icon Jimmy Barnes paid heartfelt tribute to Hirst on social media, acknowledging his profound impact on Australian culture. "RIP, dear Rob. You are irreplaceable, one of a kind, and myself, my family, and all the rest of this great country will miss you so much," Barnes wrote.
Reflecting on his health challenges during a November interview, Hirst shared insights about his diagnosis and treatment journey. He recalled how the diagnosis came about six months after Midnight Oil wrapped up their performances, reminiscing about their final show at the Hordern Pavilion on October 3, 2022. "Everything was going along and looking forward to retirement and then bang it hits you," he explained.
Hirst detailed the extensive treatments he underwent, stating, "I've had every test, I've had chemo relentlessly, I've had radiotherapy, I had sepsis earlier this year, but I'm still here as the old man used to say." He metaphorically expressed how he felt about his body, likening it to an instrument that had seen better days, surrounded by discarded materials.
Despite these challenges, Hirst found solace in the support he received from friends and family during his illness. "One of the silver linings... is that maybe you don't really appreciate the love, friendship, attention, care that comes back at you when something serious happens to you," he reflected, mentioning how this realization brought him to tears more than once. "Essentially, I believe in the goodness of people and their hearts and their motivations, and it's written in the song 'First Do No Harm.'"
Even while battling his illness, Hirst remained committed to making music. His beloved 1979 Ludwig drum kit, used on many of Midnight Oil's albums, was auctioned off, raising $90,000 for charity. "I can't thrash rock 'n' roll drums anymore," he admitted, noting the physical demands of playing such a powerful instrument. The kit now resides in a museum in Melbourne. Hirst mentioned that while he may not be performing at grand rock shows, he still participated in smaller gigs. "I'm still playing with Backsliders [a three-piece blues band Hirst was involved with], but more kind of brushes on a snare drum and percussion and also sort of strumming along on my old Gibson acoustic guitar and singing a few harmonies," he said.
He candidly acknowledged how his voice had changed due to his illness, now dropping a couple of octaves, leading him to explore a style reminiscent of Leonard Cohen. This transformation showcases not only his resilience but also his dedication to adapting and continuing his passion for music despite life’s challenges.
