Matt Sykes, who grew up in Nowra and later studied at the Canberra Conservatorium of Music, was also a member of the popular Canberra outfit The Andi and George Band.

He was well known in the spearfishing community and always careful in the water. According to Kevin Finlay, who was diving with the musician at the time of the accident, Matt was using a yellow buoy with a dive flag when he was hit by a recreational fisherman's boat. Kevin:

"There was all the ocean in the world and Matt just happened to be in that square foot of water at that time."

Matt, singer/guitarist Paul and bass player Neil Beaver were about to embark on a tour in February. Saddened by the loss of their drummer, Paul reflected:

"Matt, what an amazing bloke you were. Talented on the piano and kora, and one of the best drummers I know; you lived for what you loved and never let money dictate your life; you knew how to love and put all your love into whatever you did. Our thoughts are with Beth, and your family. So glad I got to know you, mate."

Although in shock and mourning the loss of their band mate and friend, Paul and Neil will go ahead with the tour, saying "that's what Matt would have wanted."

Paul and Neil will perform as a duo for the majority of the tour, with arrangements underway to find a replacement drummer for some of the shows.

Matt is survived by his parents, Andrew and Catherine Sykes, a brother, Chris, and sister, Emily.