Donny McCormack, Main Arm
One of the many ways Gavan Higginson was an outstanding man was in his role as a musician. He was a great drummer, especially on hand drums. When he moved here from South Africa he brought with him a deep understanding of African groove and traditional rhythms, which he shared generously.
I first met him at the inaugural Main Arm folk club, which he organised back in the 70s. I am a drum-kit player and when Gavan sat in and started playing his African style and I played my western groove, magic happened.
Since those early days, I have been fortunate enough to have shared many musical experiences with Gavan and whenever he was next to me on congas I knew that whatever happened, everything was going to be okay.
When he ran the legendary Lane Restaurant in Mullumbimby, with Gav’s blessing it quickly became the centre of creative music in the area. Quite a few groups were formed after initially jamming there.
We have lost a true legend and I personally have lost my rhythm soulmate whom I was honoured and blessed to know for more than 30 years and who can never be replaced.
RIP my beautiful brother.
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