Beloved rocker passes after battle with leukemia
Bob ‘Bongo’ Starkie, longtime guitarist of iconic Australian band Skyhooks, has died aged 73. The band confirmed early on Saturday that Starkie passed away after fighting a year-long battle with acute myeloid leukemia.
According to a statement released by the band’s archivist, with his “fur baby Bonnie” by his side, Starkie quietly passed away while listening to his favourite artist — rock ’n’ roll pioneer Chuck Berry. “Music was in his blood ’til the very end,” the band said.
From humble beginnings to rock stardom
Starkie joined Skyhooks in 1973 — replacing his older brother and original guitarist. His arrival helped complete what would become the classic Skyhooks lineup: a group that didn’t just play rock music — they redefined it for Australians. With their daring glam-rock style, bold costumes and lyrics rooted in suburbia and working-class life, Skyhooks broke every mould.
Starkie’s guitar work featured on the band’s most celebrated albums, including the smash 1974 debut Living in the 70’s and 1975’s Ego Is Not a Dirty Word — albums that shaped a generation and put Australian rock on the map.
Beyond his distinctive riffs, Starkie was known for his theatrical stage presence — makeup, flamboyant outfits, swagger. He embraced showmanship without sacrificing musical integrity. That balance helped Skyhooks stand out from the crowd.
Final years and public farewell
In January 2025, Starkie was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia. He immediately cancelled several planned shows, including a 50th-anniversary tour for Ego Is Not a Dirty Word.
Despite his illness, Starkie remained hopeful about returning to the stage — but as his health declined, he quietly withdrew from public life.
In a heartfelt statement, his daughter described how he spent his final moments “snuggled with his dog, listening to Chuck Berry, surrounded by friends and family.”
Legacy: Why Bob ‘Bongo’ Starkie mattered
- Shaping Aussie rock identity: Skyhooks — with Starkie’s guitar as a backbone — challenged social norms, sang in Australian accents, referenced local culture, and made homegrown rock a legitimate art form. Their music still resonates with fans decades later.
- A distinctive sound: His playing combined precision and groove, creating riffs that were instantly memorable — giving songs like those on Living in the 70’s their punch and staying power.
- Enduring influence: Many Australian bands cite Skyhooks as inspiration — for their boldness, lyrical honesty, and unpretentious rock spirit. Starkie’s contributions helped open doors for generations of artists.
In the words of the band’s farewell message: “Music was in his blood ’til the very end.”
Public reaction and tributes
Tributes poured in from fans, fellow musicians and industry figures — remembering Starkie as a “true rock ’n’ roller,” a “creative force” and “a dear friend.”
Many highlighted how, even during his battle with leukemia, Starkie remained deeply committed to music and fans — and how his humour, resilience and warmth left a lasting imprint.
For a nation that once danced and sang along to Skyhooks’ rebellious, homegrown anthems, Bob “Bongo” Starkie’s passing closes a meaningful chapter — but his sound, spirit and legacy will carry on.
