Fans around the world are mourning the loss of one of Australia’s most influential rock musicians. Rob Hirst, the founding drummer and steady heartbeat behind Midnight Oil, has passed away at the age of 70 following a long battle with pancreatic cancer. The band confirmed the news in an emotional social media tribute, sharing their heartbreak while honoring the decades of friendship and music they built together. Midnight Oil became a global force through powerful rock anthems and purposeful storytelling, selling more than 20 million albums worldwide—while Hirst’s unmistakable rhythm helped shape the sound that made the band instantly recognizable.
Midnight Oil formed in Sydney in 1972 and quickly stood apart for music that aimed to say something meaningful, not just fill a radio slot. Over time, they became one of Australia’s most awarded and respected bands, earning ARIA Awards and a place in the ARIA Hall of Fame. While Hirst was celebrated for his driving energy behind the drum kit, his role went beyond percussion. He was also a creative contributor to the band’s songwriting, helping build the foundation for major tracks like “Beds Are Burning,” “Blue Sky Mine,” and “The Dead Heart,” songs that blended memorable melodies with themes tied to identity, justice, and the environment.
After stepping away in the early 2000s, the band reunited in 2016, reconnecting with longtime supporters and introducing their work to new listeners. Their final studio album, Resist, arrived in 2022, followed by a farewell tour that felt like the closing chapter of a remarkable era. Outside the band, Hirst continued exploring personal creative paths, including solo projects and a special collaboration with his daughter after the two reconnected later in life. Their shared music reflected warmth, growth, and the kind of bond that deepened through creativity.
In the wake of his passing, tributes have poured in from fellow musicians and fans who credit Midnight Oil’s music with shaping memories and inspiring reflection. The band shared that no words could fully capture what they’ve lost, but that the music will always remain. His daughter also expressed gratitude for the connection they built through songwriting and recording together. Rob Hirst leaves behind a legacy that will continue to echo through speakers, stages, and generations—proof that a powerful rhythm, paired with purpose, can last far beyond a lifetime.