Rob Hirst, the drummer and songwriter best known for his role in the Australian rock band Midnight Oil, has died at the age of 70. Hirst passed away in Sydney on January 20 after a battle with pancreatic cancer, diagnosed in April 2023. His death came six months after Midnight Oil concluded their final world tour with a marathon four-hour concert in Sydney.

In the final months of his life, Hirst undertook a reflective project that diverged from his usually restless creative pace. Known for his energetic contributions to music since the mid-1970s, he began compiling his lyrics spanning five decades—from 1975 to 2025—into a collection. Initially intending to share the work online, Hirst’s goal was to make these writings available for his own sake, offering a comprehensive overview of his artistic output.

“My plan was to put the lyrics up on my website with some photos and original manuscript notes,” Hirst said during an extended conversation at his home in Byron Bay in March 2025. He described the process as a moment of taking stock amid his terminal diagnosis and wryly referenced a “sunset clause” as a metaphor for his limited time.

Encouraged by his wife of 40 years, Lesley Holland, the project evolved into a more substantial endeavor, culminating in a 400-page hardcover book titled *World is Almost at Peace*, named after a song he wrote for his side project Ghostwriters in 1991. The book offers a carefully curated and richly illustrated collection of Hirst’s lyrics, reflecting his lifelong dedication to songwriting and his distinctive wordplay.

Hirst’s artistic legacy extends beyond his role as Midnight Oil’s drummer. Throughout his career, he was regarded as a vital creative force within the band, admired for both his rhythmic precision and insightful lyricism. When asked how he wished to be remembered, he modestly described himself as “someone useful to have around a band,” focusing on his collaborative role rather than personal acclaim.

His contributions were formally recognized posthumously when he was named a Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to the performing arts. Hirst’s passing was marked by tributes from fans and peers worldwide, underscoring his influence as a foundational figure in Australian rock music.

Among those involved in bringing his final work to publication is one of his daughters, Lex Hirst, who is a book publisher. The release of *World is Almost at Peace* provides a lasting testament to Rob Hirst’s creative spirit and his enduring impact on music and culture.