The Australian music industry is reeling from the loss of one of its most influential figures, Garry Van Egmond, a veteran promoter whose impact on the scene cannot be overstated. Van Egmond, aged 82, passed away over the weekend due to complications from surgery, leaving behind a profound legacy that has left an indelible mark on the industry.
The announcement of Van Egmond’s death came today from touring giant TEG, who confirmed that he had peacefully passed away on Saturday morning. With a career spanning decades, Van Egmond was widely regarded as one of the world’s premier promoters, known for his impeccable taste, professionalism, and dedication to his craft.
Veteran showbiz reporter Richard Wilkins paid tribute to Van Egmond, describing him as “one of the world’s great promoters” and “a beautiful, elegant, classy guy.” Indeed, throughout his illustrious career, Van Egmond orchestrated some of the most iconic concert tours in Australian history, solidifying his reputation as a titan of the industry.
One of Van Egmond’s most notable achievements was the Dire Straits’ 1986 Brothers In Arms tour, which became a cultural phenomenon in Australia. With an astounding 250,000 tickets sold in Sydney alone, the tour captured the imagination of music lovers across the country and cemented Van Egmond’s status as a master promoter.
In addition to Dire Straits, Van Egmond was instrumental in bringing other legendary acts to Australian audiences, including the national Jesus Christ Superstar tour in 1992, the electrifying Riverdance in 1997, and AC/DC’s monumental 2010 stadium tour. His ability to connect artists with fans and create unforgettable live experiences was unparalleled, making him a beloved figure within the music community.
TEG Group CEO Geoff Jones expressed the company’s profound sadness at the loss of Van Egmond, describing him as “not only a highly valued colleague but a thoroughly decent person” with “the highest integrity.” Jones emphasized that Van Egmond’s legacy would endure, a sentiment echoed by countless others who had the privilege of working with him.
Van Egmond is survived by his daughter Katie, son Christo, and grandchildren Hugo and Saskia. Christo, who serves as the Managing Director of TEG Van Egmond, spoke fondly of his father, describing him as “a true gentleman in the business” and highlighting his invaluable mentorship over the years. Christo expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside his father and reflected on their shared passion for bringing live music to audiences around the world.
As the news of Garry Van Egmond’s passing reverberates throughout the music industry, colleagues, friends, and fans alike are coming together to celebrate his life and legacy. While his presence will be sorely missed, his contributions to the world of music will continue to inspire and resonate for years to come.
