Former Skyhooks guitarist and Melbourne radio personality Red Symons is mourning the death of his son Samuel, who died from cancer surrounded by his family overnight.
Samuel Symons, 27, was first diagnosed with cancer as a four-year-old and developed secondary cancers throughout his life.
Red Symons’ employer radio station 3AW announced the death on air on Wednesday morning.
Broadcaster Neil Mitchell read out a statement from the family.
“It is with the deepest sadness Red announces the passing of his beautiful son Samuel Symons,” the statement read.
“Samuel passed peacefully overnight surrounded by his family.
“We ask that you please respect the privacy of Red and his family at this very sad and difficult time.”
Mitchell said that Red was much loved at the station and in Melbourne.
“He is a delightful, friendly, engaging man, and I feel for his family going through this,” he said.
In May this year, Samuel Symons received an outstanding achievement award for his volunteer work with cancer patients and for shaping services for young people at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre in Melbourne.
“His enthusiasm, determination and resilience has effected real change in the lives of young people living with cancer from across Victoria and Australia,” the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre said.
Red Symons is also a former ABC Radio presenter and Hey Hey It’s Saturday entertainer.
He’s been recovering from a significant brain injury after a fall last year.
