The founding drummer of Australia’s iconic rock band Midnight Oil has died at age 70 following a long battle with pancreatic cancer. The band confirmed the news in a heartfelt message, honoring decades of shared music, friendship, and activism. Midnight Oil became internationally known for blending powerful rock with socially conscious themes, selling more than 20 million albums worldwide. Their 1987 breakthrough album, Diesel and Dust, introduced songs that became lasting anthems, driven by the drummer’s steady, unmistakable rhythm.

Formed in Sydney in 1972, Midnight Oil earned a reputation for music with purpose. The band won multiple ARIA Awards and was inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame, reflecting their impact on Australian culture. Beyond his role behind the drum kit, the drummer was a key creative force, co-writing many of the band’s most influential songs, including “Beds Are Burning,” “Blue Sky Mine,” and “The Dead Heart.” His contributions helped shape lyrics and melodies that addressed social justice, environmental issues, and national identity for more than four decades.

After a long hiatus, the band reunited in 2016, releasing new music and touring globally. Their final studio album, Resist, arrived in 2022, followed by a farewell tour. Outside the band, he pursued solo projects and recorded a collaborative album with his daughter, reflecting a deeply personal chapter of his life.

Tributes from fans and fellow musicians highlight a legacy defined by integrity, creativity, and purpose. While the loss is deeply felt, his music continues to resonate—proving that powerful songs, once released into the world, never truly fade.