“The Ghost has left the building”
Melbourne underground music veteran and legendary radio presenter Stephen ‘The Ghost’ Walker passed away on Wednesday July 3 following a long battle with multiple sclerosis and a short one with cancer.
Walker was a volunteer at Melbourne radio station 3RRR for 37 years and was its program manager for 17 years. During his time with the station, he hosted a number of shows including Skull Cave, From The Bunker, Survival Talkback and Ghost in the Machine. Skull Cave grew to become a beloved radio program airing every Friday from 4pm to 7pm. Walker handed hosting responsibilities of the program over to Woody McDonald in 2018.
Walker was the first radio presenter to be inducted into The Age Music Victoria Awards Hall of Fame back in 2011 for his contribution to Melbourne’s culture. When he passed the milestone of 30 years at 3RRR, a concert was held in his honour at Forum Theatre and featured the likes of Nick Cave, Dirty Three and more.
In a statement, 3RRR said “his on-air presence was something truly special” and he was instrumental in shaping the station’s sound during the late ’80s and ’90s.
“We’ll miss Stephen’s wise words, cheeky ability to shock, heartfelt support for and interest in all things Triple R, incredible vision and deeply philosophical nature. We celebrate Stephen’s contribution to Triple R, Melbourne underground culture, music and community broadcasting.”
Check out some highlights from Stephen Walker’s 3RRR program, Skull Cave.
