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Adelaide music legend dies aged 61 following private health battle

BBG News

The Australian music scene is deeply saddened by the passing away of iconic singer Mark Fenech, who lost his life earlier this month following a secret fight against bone cancer.

On May 20th, the lead singer of the band Clowns of Decadence, who was 61 years old, passed away after a tough 14-month fight against bone cancer.

His death was confirmed in a heartbreaking social media statement by his former bandmates.

Today has been filled with deep sorrow. The news about the passing of remarkable Mark Fenech has shaken us profoundly.

He was, and always will be remembered as, the most powerful lead vocalist the South African punk scene has ever encountered. While he had a history of performing in various early local punk groups, his exceptional contributions to the extraordinary band Clowns of Decadence have left an indelible mark on us all.

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Over the course of time, we’ve been fortunate to consider Mark as more than just an acquaintance, and we must admit, there was a touch of envy toward his natural talent and charm that radiated effortlessly.

‘He was just a brilliant person. Sending our love to all of his loved ones.’

Heartbroken fans took to social media to pay tribute to Fenech and honour his legacy.

If you missed out on witnessing his performance or meeting him personally, I regret to inform you that you’ve missed a remarkable individual. Farewell to the maestro, the showman, the jester.

‘I always liked him. Felt he was one of the genuine nice guys of the scene,’ a second added.

In the 80s, Fenech, more famously recognized as the flamboyant character Ockerbozo, was one of the co-founders of the renowned Adelaide punk group, The Mutants.

The band later morphed into the Festered Vestoons and finally Clowns of Decadence. 

They became well-known due to their distinctive clown outfits and thrilling hometown shows that showcased daring feats such as swallowing swords and breathing fire.

Additionally, Fenech contributed to the film industry, specifically handling logistics within the transport department for the chilling 2022 production of Ribspreader, which was filmed in Adelaide and featured Neil Foley from Romper Stomper as its lead actor.

Matt Jonsson, the drummer from the band Clowns of Decadence, commended Fenech for consistently delivering exceptional performances during their live concerts.

As an engaging performer, I was bursting with vitality, always moving about and skillfully weaving through my fellow teammates who added the fiery spectacle. This is how I described myself in a recent interview.

‘A selfless, very fun-loving, very approachable, very real type of person in real life.’

His death came as a shock to fans, as he kept his cancer battle private. 

Fenech is survived by his wife Lisa.

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2025-05-29 04:52

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