Guy Ghouse: WA musician and teacher loses battle to cancer at age 56

West Australian musician Guy Ghouse has passed away surrounded by family at age 56.

The musical director, producer, educator and mentor died on Friday morning after a two year battle with cancer.

The guitarist’s passing was announced in a Facebook post honouring the musician’s life and influence.

“It is with the deepest of sadness that we announce that Guy Ian Ghouse AM took his last breath, surrounded by the love of his family this morning, 21 November 2025,” the social media post stated.

“He was an adored son, brother, husband and father. His contribution to community will resonate for generations to come.

“Guy’s loss will be felt far and wide. Those who were lucky enough to experience his skill and craft as a guitar player up close will all agree – there was none better.

“Guy has battled the worst of cancers for close to two years. Through all of that time, he never complained and he continued to work until as recently as two weeks ago.”

An admired teacher and co-composer of works for opera, festivals and theatre, Ghouse became a Member of the Order of Australia in June.

He was best known for his collaborations with Noongar singer Gina Williams after the pair began performing together in 2010.

The duo are six-time winners of Indigenous act of the year at the WA Music Industry Awards and have released four Noongar-language albums.

Ghouse was born in Perth on January 8, 1969, 10 days after his Malaysian-born parents arrived in Australia on a cargo boat.