Tributes have poured in for beloved West Australian musician Guy Ghouse, who died this week, aged 56, after a two-year cancer battle.
Guy was a highly respected teacher and composer of works for opera, festivals and theatre.
He was perhaps best known for his 15-year musical partnership with Noongar singer Gina Williams.
During their partnership, Guy and Gina released four Noongar-language albums and were awarded the Indigenous Act of the Year award six times at the WA Music Industry Awards.
The pair also had the honour of playing at Australia House in London, and the 2021 AFL Grand Final in Perth.
In June, Guy was recognised for his contribution to music and his mentorship of children throughout Western Australia by being made a Member of the Order of Australia.Â
Tributes have poured in for beloved West Australian musician Guy Ghouse, who died this week, aged 56, after a two-year cancer battle
The heartbreaking news was shared on the Gina Williams & Guy Ghouse Facebook page on Friday.
‘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 post began.
‘He was an adored son, brother, husband and father. His contribution to community will resonate for generations to come.’
The loving tribute continued, highlighting Guy’s masterful musical talent and ability to connect with people of all ages through music.Â
‘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.
‘For those who were lucky enough to share his vision of music composition through performing his many varied works – none were more creative,’ the post continued.
‘For the school kids and teachers who laughed at Uncle Guy’s jokes and silliness – none were funnier.Â
‘For those who experienced First Nations language through his work over more than 20 years – none were more passionate, or more effective.’
‘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,’ a post announcing his death on Friday read
He was perhaps best known for his 15-year musical partnership with Noongar singer Gina Williams. the pair released four Noongar-language albums and were awarded the Indigenous Act of the Year award six times at the WA Music Industry Awards
The heartfelt eulogy also highlighted Guy’s strength throughout his cancer battle. Â
‘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,’ the tribute read.
The post concluded by asking people to post a ‘dad joke’ on social media in Guy’s memory.
The heart-rending post was met with an outpouring of condolences from friends and fans.
‘Just got the news and  bawled my eyes out and then my heart swelled up and a big smile fell on my face as I know the last thing he would want is anyone to be sad,’ one replied.
‘One of the kindest, gentlest, inspiring, caring, funniest, talented, bestest guitarist, loving, giving humans I’ve had the privilege to know.’
Another offered an equally heartfelt: ‘Words cannot describe the deep sadness I feel for the loss of an amazing human.Â
‘He was so loved and his kindness and incredible talent will be missed.’
Guy was a highly respected teacher and composer of works for opera, festivals and theatre. In September, Guy was recognised for his contribution to music and his mentorship of children throughout Western Australia with a Member of the Order of Australia
‘For those who were lucky enough to share his vision of music composition through performing his many varied works – none were more creative,’ the post continued. Pictured from left: Amy Manford, Kav Temperly, Abbe May, Ian Kenny, Gina Williams and Guy Ghouse
 A third summed up the sentiment of many with: ‘Guy was a stellar human, shining a light to guide us all on how to live life deeply, with warmth, humility, courage, and grace.Â
‘He had a ton of talent, we’re so glad he shared. Sending love to all those who mourn him.’
The tributes continued to flow on social media, with many people who worked with Guy over the years taking to Facebook to share their heartbreak.
‘We are heartbroken to learn that the great Guy Ghouse has left the stage,’ the page of Perth venue the Ellington Jazz Club shared.
‘He brought true artistry, warmth and joy to the club, and we can’t quite believe there will be no encore.’
