Yesterday, we learned that revered music photographer and media exec Ros O’Gorman had passed away after a short but nonetheless shocking battle with cancer.
O’Gorman, who with husband Paul Cashmere, established The Noise Network and by extension Noise 11 in 2011, has been a figure within the Australian music industry many knew or at least, knew of. Hers was a face many of us saw regularly at shows on the east coast; it only takes a quick internet search to discover just how far-reaching O’Gorman’s career profile extended over the years.
From co-founding music site Undercover in 1994 to then growing The Noise Network more recently into the impressive media platform it is now regarded as, O’Gorman’s passion and love for her work always shone brightly.
As Michael Chugg said in an official statement today, “Since the digital age, it was always a pleasure to run into her and Paul, whom upheld a long loving relationship in an industry that burns most relationships. I remember spending a very enjoyable evening with them both at the Americana Honours event in Melbourne last October and recently, with Ros at a very funny Record Store Day launch in Sydney in late March. Rose was a shining light and inspiration to all the women making their mark on the industry.”
It is a sentiment felt by many who have left their messages of condolence on Noise 11’s social media channels since the news broke. O’Gorman was a trailblazer and a beloved figure; balancing a thriving (and continuously developing) career in an industry often unforgiving of the challenges and pressures of a growing family, O’Gorman and Cashmere proved to be an example that yes, we can have both.
In a media climate focused on competition perhaps now more than ever, we must take moments to recognise the strength of our peers and wider colleagues who have built great things in order to champion Australian music and the artists they love and believe deserve the platform. I’ve always had a lot of time for Noise 11 and I know many writers, editors and photographers who have turned to Paul and Ros over the years for advice, an ear to listen and just people to share our common love for music with.
Our deepest condolences go out to Paul and their children Tim and Haylee at this time.
A celebration of O’Gorman’s life will be held in Melbourne week commencing June 11th, more details to come.
Revisit Ros’ work at her website, here.
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Photo: Ros O’Gorman’s website.
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