Readers are invited to revisit Hirst’s work through Midnight Oil’s videos and legacy.

The band’s legacy includes bold political activism, advocating for Indigenous Australian rights and challenging corporate power.

In prior interviews, Hirst discussed aging, mortality, and his deep connection to nature alongside ongoing musical work.

In 2025, he remained optimistic about life, noting that it had been better than anyone could have asked given his diagnosis.

Rob Hirst, Midnight Oil’s founding drummer and a central songwriter, died at 70 after a nearly three-year battle with pancreatic cancer, peacefully surrounded by loved ones.

Beyond Midnight Oil, Hirst’s creativity stretched across projects like The Ghostwriters, Backsliders, Hirst & Greene, The Angry Tradesmen, and The Break.

Late in life, he described breath limitations and a shift from large drum kits to brushes and percussion, while remaining active in songwriting.

Health challenges pushed him to adapt his playing style, yet he stayed creatively productive with songwriting and performance.

In late 2025, Hirst released the EP A Hundred Years or More with Jim Moginie and Hamish Stuart, signaling continued musical activity despite illness.

Facing illness, he adapted by trimming performances, collaborating with Backsliders, and moving toward softer expressions as his voice changed.

Hirst urged regular testing for symptoms, highlighting simple blood tests for early cancer detection.

He attributed extended time after diagnosis to fitness, diet, sleep, and reducing hospital visits, noting he could no longer play full rock drums but could still write and strum.