The legendary drum kit that served as the rhythmic heart of Midnight Oil, played by the band’s late founder Rob Hirst for over four decades, is now a centerpiece at the Australian Museum of Performing Arts. This 1979 Black Ludwig touring and recording kit is featured in the museum’s second-ever exhibition, titled ‘ENCORE!’, which celebrates 50 years of Australian performing arts history through 50 carefully selected objects. Rob Hirst, a principal songwriter behind many of Midnight Oil’s most famous anthems like “Power and the Passion” and “Beds Are Burning,” passed away in January at the age of 70. He used this distinctive drum kit on stage from 1979 until the band’s final concerts in 2022.
A Drum Kit’s Journey to Public Display
This significant piece of Australian music history is now accessible to the public for the first time. Its journey to the museum was made possible by a dedicated fan group who successfully crowdfunded its acquisition at auction for $77,500. Reports indicate that the fan group had initially approached the Powerhouse in Sydney, the band’s home city, regarding the drum kit’s potential display. However, these inquiries reportedly did not receive a response from the institution.
‘ENCORE!’: A Glimpse into Australia’s Performing Arts Legacy
The ‘ENCORE!’ exhibition offers a diverse and captivating look at the nation’s rich performing arts heritage. Alongside Rob Hirst’s drum kit, the display showcases a variety of iconic artifacts that represent different facets of Australian entertainment. Visitors can marvel at Kylie Minogue’s unforgettable gold hotpants from her “Spinning Around” music video, a vibrant symbol of pop music evolution. The beloved Ossie Ostrich puppet, a fixture from the long-running television show “Hey Hey It’s Saturday,” also makes an appearance, evoking nostalgia for many.
More Treasures from the Stage and Screen
Further highlights within the ‘ENCORE!’ exhibition include a poignant gown worn by the late Olivia Newton-John during a memorable performance with ABBA, underscoring her enduring impact on music. The exhibition also features a meticulously crafted set model of the bus from the groundbreaking film “Priscilla, Queen of the Desert,” a testament to Australian cinema and theatrical design. These items, among others, are drawn from the extensive Australian Performing Arts Collection, which boasts over 875,000 objects spanning circus, dance, music, opera, and theatre.
Celebrating 50 Years of Performing Arts Collection
The ‘ENCORE!’ exhibition serves a dual purpose: to showcase these remarkable artifacts and to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Australian Performing Arts Collection. The Australian Museum of Performing Arts itself, which opened its doors in December 2025, has already established a strong presence. Its inaugural exhibition, ‘DIVA,’ on loan from London’s Victoria and Albert Museum, attracted a significant audience of over 39,300 visitors, signaling a promising future for the institution.
Exhibition Details and Visitor Information
The ‘ENCORE!’ exhibition, featuring Rob Hirst’s drum kit and other significant performance memorabilia, is scheduled to be on public display from Wednesday until May 2027. This exhibition provides a unique opportunity for Australians and visitors alike to connect with the nation’s vibrant cultural history and the artists who have shaped its performing arts landscape. The inclusion of Hirst’s drum kit is particularly significant, offering a tangible link to the raw energy and enduring legacy of Midnight Oil and Australian rock music.
Rob Hirst’s Enduring Musical Impact
Rob Hirst’s contribution to Australian music cannot be overstated. As a founding member and primary songwriter of Midnight Oil, his lyrics often tackled social and political issues, resonating deeply with audiences both in Australia and internationally. His distinctive drumming style, powerfully evident on the Ludwig kit now on display, provided the driving force behind the band’s unique sound. The kit’s presence in the ‘ENCORE!’ exhibition ensures that his musical legacy and the stories embedded within his instruments will continue to inspire future generations. The exhibition’s focus on such a pivotal instrument highlights the importance of preserving and celebrating the tools that have created Australia’s most beloved performances.
The Significance of Preserving Performance Artifacts
The preservation of artifacts like Rob Hirst’s drum kit is crucial for understanding the evolution of Australian performing arts. These objects are not merely historical relics; they are tangible connections to the creative processes, the performances, and the cultural moments that have defined the nation’s artistic identity. The Australian Performing Arts Collection, through exhibitions like ‘ENCORE!’, plays a vital role in safeguarding this heritage. By bringing these items into public view, the museum fosters a deeper appreciation for the artists, the craftsmanship, and the cultural impact of Australian performance across various disciplines. The success of the crowdfunding campaign for the drum kit further illustrates the public’s strong connection to these cultural touchstones and their desire to see them protected and shared.
