Rob Hirst's Family Finishes Book Honoring Midnight Oil Songwriter

Rob Hirst, the late Midnight Oil drummer and songwriter, left behind a manuscript that his daughter Lex Hirst has completed after his death. The resulting volume, *World is Almost at Peace*, chronicles his career and offers a rare look at his songwriting process.

Background

• Rob Hirst was the band's primary percussionist and a key lyricist for Midnight Oil.
• He died of pancreatic cancer in January 2026.
• His daughter Lex Hirst began the project about a month after his passing, aiming to preserve his voice and creative legacy.

The Book Project

• Confirmed facts: The manuscript was nearly 85 % complete when Hirst died.
• Reported claims: Lex said she felt a “cathartic” relief when reading the final document, noting that it captured his voice “so well.”
• Collaboration: Family and musicians contributed notes, anecdotes, and songwriting credits that were colour‑coded in the book.

Content Highlights

*World is Almost at Peace* is organized chronologically and includes:

• Early lyricist attempts and the teenage‑era songs that read like “a confession.”
• Tracks from Midnight Oil’s socially conscious classics such as *Beds Are Burning* and *Read About It*.
• Projects with other bands like Ghostwriters and Backsliders.
• A detailed breakdown of who wrote individual lines, with colour‑coded annotations.
• The final song, *An Upwelling*, which was never recorded but was left with chords and a note that someone else could take it to the world.

Practical Implications

• Access: The book is being published by Hardie Grant Publishing; it may be available in bookstores and online retailers once released.
• Verification: Readers can confirm the details by:
• Checking the original ABC News article (https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-11-01/rob-hirst-book-midnight-oil-drummer-songwriter/107314400)
• Reviewing the Hardie Grant Publishing press release for the book’s launch date.
• Contacting Lex Hirst directly for a copy or interview.

How to Verify the Announcement

• Primary source: The ABC News story dated 1 November 2026 provides the initial report and includes Lex Hirst’s statements.
• Secondary source: Hardie Grant Publishing’s official website lists the book title, author, and publication timeline.
• Cross‑checking: Look for independent reviews or interviews with Lex Hirst that discuss the manuscript’s completion.

The project underscores the importance of preserving a musician’s creative legacy, especially when illness intervenes. By completing the book, Lex Hirst ensures that Rob’s songwriting—both the lyrics and the rhythmic pulse that defined Midnight Oil—remains accessible to future generations.