Skyhooks Guitarist Bob ‘Bongo’ Starkie Diagnosed With 'Aggressive Leukemia'

Skyhooks guitarist Bob “Bongo” Starkie has been diagnosed with an “aggressive” type of leukemia and has cancelled a run of shows due to the diagnosis.

In a statement, Starkie said, “This has come as a shock to me and my family. Life has been generous to me up until now, but sometimes, you draw the short straw. Apologies for any inconvenience; it stresses me to cancel the shows.

“I’ve been feeling on top of the world with the addition of [vocalist] Sasha [Theunissen] in the band, but the situation makes it impossible for the shows to go on at this point in time.”

Skyhooks archivist Peter Green added, “We are all shocked and saddened by this news. I’ve known Bob since I was 15 and know what a fighter he is. The band and those close to Bongo stand by him during these tough times.”

The news arrives as Skyhooks celebrated re-entering the ARIA Charts following the 50th anniversary re-release of the Aussie rock band’s iconic album, Living In The 70’s.

On social media, Starkie revealed that his upcoming shows, including his two sold-out Sydney Rock The Harbour events for Saturday, 15 February, will be cancelled. Fans can find information about postponed dates and ticket refunds via their point of sale.

Starkie has paused all work to deal with the diagnosis.

As the band’s fans know, Bob’s brother, Peter Starkie, was the original guitarist for Skyhooks. Bob replaced Peter in August 1973, before Living In The 70’s was recorded.

Originally released in October 1974, Living In The 70’s was a massive hit for Skyhooks.

Released via Michael Gudinski’s budding Mushroom Records label, the album's initially muted response quickly shifted in early 1975 when it topped the local charts. It stayed there for a massive 16 weeks, becoming the highest-selling Australian album at that time.

Along with fellow new member, Red Symons (who replaced Peter Inglis), Starkie and Symons were the dual guitar sound that was essential to the band’s sound. Bob Starkie has performed in every incarnation of Skyhooks.