A heartfelt fundraiser has been launched to support Bob “Bongo” Starkie, the beloved guitarist of the iconic Australian rock band Skyhooks, following his recent diagnosis with an aggressive form of leukemia. Just months after the announcement of his illness, his family initiated a GoFundMe campaign to help ease the financial strain associated with his treatment and ongoing recovery.
The campaign, which began over the weekend, aims to raise $59,000 to cover Starkie’s medical expenses and assist his family during this difficult time. His daughter, Indiana Starkie Robertson, shared an emotional message on the fundraiser page, highlighting her father’s lifelong devotion to music.
“Music is Dad’s whole world—he has always had a guitar in his hands,” Indiana wrote. “From the moment he wakes up, trying to get us wild girls to sleep as children, on trains, planes, and even in the hospital during chemotherapy, his guitar was by his side.”
She added, “We may not have many more years, but as a family, we hope to fill those days with love and music. We are so grateful for your support. The funds will go toward Dad’s treatment and rehabilitation, and will give us the chance to be fully present with him, helping him return to the stage where he belongs.”
As of now, the fundraiser has collected over $16,000. Indiana provided an update thanking supporters, sharing that the donations have already made a difference. “With these funds we have been able to secure another in-home round of chemotherapy and increase rehab from one day to two days a week! We’ll get Dad swinging those Elvis hips in no time!”
Starkie’s diagnosis was made public in late January, resulting in the cancellation of two sold-out shows scheduled in Sydney for February. “This has come as a shock to me and my family,” Starkie said at the time. “Life has been generous to me up until now, but sometimes, you draw the short straw.”
Bob Starkie became a member of Skyhooks in August 1973, replacing his brother, Peter Starkie, just before the band recorded their breakthrough album Living In The 70’s. Released in October 1974 under the up-and-coming Mushroom Records label, the album went on to top the Australian charts in early 1975 and remained there for 16 weeks, ultimately becoming the highest-selling Australian album of its time.
Together with fellow new member Red Symons—who replaced Peter Inglis—Bob helped create the band’s signature dual guitar sound. He has remained a fixture in every incarnation of Skyhooks throughout the years, continuing to perform and inspire generations of fans.
Despite the challenges ahead, the spirit of music and community remains strong around Bob “Bongo” Starkie. With continued support, his family hopes to see him return to doing what he loves most—playing guitar on stage for his fans.
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