Tributes are flowing for Shane Collins, the frontman of Brisbane melodic punk band The Gifthorse, who has died.
Collins’ partner says he passed away earlier this week, after suffering from depression.
In a statement posted to Instagram, the host of triple j‘s heavy music show The Racket, Lochlan Watt, spoke about his friend of 12 years, saying:
“He was always older than me, but we grew up together. Countless gigs, beers, and pingers shared. Shane gave meaning to what it was to be a punk/metal kid from Brisbane. I’ve never been this truly gutted in my life.”
Melbourne indie label Poison City Records, which released a number of The Gifthorse’s records, wrote, “RIP Shane. Such a kind heart and the best hugs in the business. You’ll be missed by many.”
Artists and industry members have also paid tribute to Collins online, including Camp Cope’s Sarah Thompson and The Amity Affliction’s Ahren Stringer:
RIP Shane. one of the best. you were always the mayor of Brisbane to me. thanks for always giving me shit about my tragic teenage choices. I’m sorry I locked you out of your own house when you let us stay on our 1st tour, a good 13 years after we met. ? https://t.co/g1byC3Gb2O
— Sarah Thompson (@slthomthom) January 31, 2018
https://twitter.com/stringDTD/status/958829884964405248
RIP Shane, an amazing person forever in our hearts
— The Bennies (@TheBennies420) January 31, 2018
So many of these type of storys coming out. He had so much time for everybody. Tragic. This has hit me pretty hard
— Aaron Gocs (@AaronGocs) January 31, 2018
The Gifthorse are yet to publicly comment on Collins’ passing.
A public service for Collins will be held at Marcoola Beach at 2:30pm on Friday, 9th February.
View a number of the tribute to Collins, below.
