Member of legendary Australian rock band dies after long cancer battle

The founding band member died in hospital after a six-year health battle and has left behind an “incredible musical legacy”.

A legendary Australian rocker has died after a six-year-battle with cancer.

Gavin Webb, a founding member of The Masters Apprentices, died aged 77 in the Royal Adelaide Hospital on Tuesday afternoon, the band confirmed.

“It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved bassist and founding member of ARIA Hall of Fame inducted band The Masters Apprentices, Gavin Webb,” the band said in a Facebook post on Wednesday morning.

The Masters Apprentices founding member Gavin Webb has died. Picture: Supplied

They said Webb had been in remission for a few years before the cancer returned.

“Even though Gavin was softly spoken, what few words he did say, he would always make count,” the band said.

The band rose to fame in the 1960s. Picture: Supplied

“Gavin leaves behind an incredible musical legacy which will live forever in Australia’s music history.”

Webb is survived by his partner Sharon, son Ben and grandchildren Lucy, Noah and Matthew.

He battled cancer for six years. Picture: Supplied

His bandmates Mick Bower, Brian Vaughton and Rick Morrison said he entered their lives 60 years ago and became a “brother”.

“We will greatly miss our Gavin and treasure the lifelong bond we will share forever – from Mustangs to Masters,” the band said.

“Our love eternally ‘Spider’.”

The band was formed in Adelaide and was originally named The Mustangs. They later relocated to Melbourne in February 1967 and tried to break into the UK market from 1970.

Their popular singles include “Undecided”, “Living in a Child’s Dream”, “5:10 Man”, “Think About Tomorrow Today”, “Turn Up Your Radio” and “Because I Love You”.

Originally published as Member of legendary Australian rock band dies after long cancer battle