Farewell to Bob ‘Bongo’ Starkie: Skyhooks Legend Passes Away at 73

Skyhooks guitarist Bob “Bongo” Starkie has passed away at the age of 73 after a battle with cancer, the iconic Australian band confirmed.

The beloved musician—an Aussie rock legend—died from leukaemia, with his bandmates and family announcing that he took his final breath on Saturday morning, surrounded by loved ones and listening to Chuck Berry.

“It is with heavy hearts that we share the news that early this morning, Bob ‘Bongo’ Starkie has passed away,” the band wrote in their statement.

“For the past year, he fought courageously against leukemia, hoping he’d return to the stage to perform again. Music was in his veins until the very last moment.”

Starkie was part of Skyhooks’ classic lineup throughout the mid- and late 1970s, contributing guitar and backing vocals to some of their most celebrated albums, including Living in the 70’s and Ego Is Not a Dirty Word.

Earlier this year, Starkie had to cancel upcoming performances after receiving his leukaemia diagnosis.

“Bob was the guitarist for the legendary Skyhooks — the youngest member of the group — and he fully embraced the band’s theatrical flair, from bold stage costumes to striking face makeup,” the band noted.

“But above all, the music came first for him. Touring and performing brought him absolute joy.

“The members of Skyhooks are deeply saddened by the loss of our bandmate and extend our heartfelt condolences to Bob’s family.”

In a tribute of her own, Starkie’s daughter Indiana shared that he passed away peacefully.

“Our dearest Grand-Daddy-Bop has left us gently while listening to Chuck Berry,” she wrote.

“Cuddled up with his fur baby Bonnie and surrounded by friends and family.

“His daughters Indiana and Arabella, grandchildren Phoenix and Lucia, partner Chrissy, great mate Ian, and sons-in-law Simon and Chris will miss him beyond words.

“Thank you for all the love and support. He felt it right up to the end.”