Chad Morgan Obituary – Australia is mourning the loss of one of its most beloved country music icons, Chad Morgan, affectionately known as The Sheik of Scrubby Creek. The legendary singer and songwriter passed away on New Year’s Day at the age of 91 in Gin Gin, near Bundaberg, Queensland.
Chad’s son, Chad Jr., confirmed the sad news to ABC, sparking an outpouring of tributes from fans, friends, and fellow musicians across the nation. Among those honoring the iconic musician was country singer Evelyn Bury, a close friend of Chad’s, who described him as a “beautiful larrikin” and added, “There’ll never be another Chad.”
Born in 1933 in the South Burnett town of Wondai, Chad was raised by his loving grandparents. Before he embarked on a career in music, he worked as a timber cutter and in the sugar industry. His big break came when his friends dared him to perform on Australia’s Amateur Hour radio program in the early 1950s, a challenge that would change the course of his life.
“I went into the air force in ’52, and mates heard me singing,” Chad once told the ABC. “They dared me to go on Amateur Hour, and it snowballed from there.”
From these humble beginnings, Chad launched a music career that spanned more than seven decades. In 1958, he released his debut album, The Sheik of Scrubby Creek, a nod to the nickname that would become synonymous with his larger-than-life personality.
Chad’s unique brand of comedic country music endeared him to fans across generations. Hits like The Shotgun Wedding, I’m My Own Grandpa, Double Decker Blowflies, and There’s Life in the Old Dog Yet showcased his cheeky humor and sharp wit, while his distinctive, crooked teeth became an iconic part of his image. In fact, it’s widely believed they inspired Barry Humphries’ infamous character, Sir Les Patterson.
Over his extraordinary career, Chad performed everywhere from intimate pubs to the grandeur of the Sydney Opera House. He was a regular on Reg Lindsay’s Country and Western Hour and was celebrated not only for his music but also for his warm, larrikin spirit that resonated deeply with his audience.
His contributions to Australian country music earned him widespread acclaim. Chad achieved platinum and gold album sales, was inducted into the Tamworth Hands of Fame in 1979, and received a Medal of the Order of Australia in 2004. In 2010, he was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Country Music Association of Australia Awards.
Despite his many accolades, there was a campaign as recently as last year to induct Chad into the Australian ARIA Hall of Fame. Anna Rose, author of a biography about Chad’s life and career, described the omission as a “tragedy,” saying, “He’s had a 70-year career that’s been exceptional. He’s known not just all over Australia but all over the world.”
In his personal life, Chad married fellow singer Pam Mitchell, with whom he had three children: Allan, Chad Jr., and Janelle. After their separation, he found love again with Joan Morgan, whom he married in his 50s. The couple shared more than 30 happy years together until Joan’s passing in 2017.
Chad’s passing marks the end of an era in Australian music. His humor, humility, and unmistakable voice left an indelible mark on the hearts of fans and musicians alike.
For many, Chad was more than a musician—he was a storyteller, a comedian, and a reflection of Australia’s unique spirit. As Evelyn Bury so beautifully put it, “There’ll never be another Chad.”
Today, as the nation remembers this larger-than-life figure, fans are invited to celebrate his music, his humor, and his remarkable legacy. From Wondai to the Sydney Opera House, Chad Morgan’s songs will continue to echo, ensuring that the Sheik of Scrubby Creek lives on forever in the hearts of those who loved him.
