News

We are shattered and grieving the loss of our brother Rob. For now there are no words but there will always be songs. Love Always from Jim, Martin & Pete.

After fighting heroically for almost three years, Rob is now free of pain – ‘a glimmer of tiny light in the wilderness’. He died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones. The family asks that anyone wanting to honour Rob donate to Pankind, Pancreatic Cancer Australia or Support Act.

Photographer unknown

Rob Hirst is parting ways with a truly iconic piece of music history. Purchased new for the recording of Head Injuries, this Ludwig kit became the heartbeat of the Oils’ live shows — a centrepiece on stages across the world from 1979 right through to the band’s final tour in 2022.

Now, Rob is auctioning the kit with all proceeds donated to two causes close to his heart:

MusicNT ’s “Fix-Em-Up Truck Campaign”, providing gear, repairs and support for remote musicians in the NT.

Support Act, the lifeline for Australian music workers in need.

The auction runs from today, Friday 3 Oct – Monday 13 Oct (9pm AEDT) and is open to everyone. The winning bidder covers courier costs, but walks away with nothing less than a living piece of Australian rock history.

Rob hopes this kit finds a home where it can continue to inspire — whether that’s a museum or a private collection. Either way, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to own part of the Oils’ story.

CLICK HERE FOR AUCTION DETAILS

Sold/Auctioned by Matthew Yau on behalf of Rob Hirst.