Fans urged to dig deep for ailing blues muso

A POPULAR Geelong blues musician has revealed he is battling pancreatic cancer.

Chris Wilson, a 34-year veteran of the music industry, posted to his official Facebook page yesterday informing fans of his diagnosis.

The 62-year-old from Clifton Springs has been a regular performer in the Geelong region. In recent times, Wilson has delighted crowds at Pistol Pete’s on Little Malop St, as well as the Torquay Nightjar Festival in January.

During his career, he has also performed with big-name Australian artists including Paul Kelly and Harem Scarem.

An online fundraiser set up yesterday to support Wilson’s family had surpassed $25,000 in less than six hours.

Fundraising organiser Suzannah Espie urged people to spare a dollar to help raise $50,000.

“For over 40 years, Chris has given the people of Melbourne, Australia, and the world the gift of his talent and enormous heart,” she said.

“As a singer, harmonica player, songwriter, producer, mentor, husband, father and friend, he has laid himself on the line and lived with fierce authenticity.

“He won’t be performing any more, his wife Sarah will be stopping work to care for him, so if you can spare a buck or two please help ensure that financial stress is one thing the Wilson family won’t have to endure at this time.”

A benefit concert has also been organised to celebrate Wilson’s contribution to the industry.

The August 24 concert will be held at the Corner Hotel in Richmond, with acts including Tim Rogers and Steve Lucas.

For more details, go to www. facebook. com/ cwilsonmusic

To donate to the Chris Wilson fundraiser, visit gofundme. com/ chris- wilson- andfamily