THE international shearing fraternity and Western District are mourning the loss of a beloved brother, following the death of Adam McClure.

The 32-year-old was killed in a car crash near Beaufort last Friday, the circumstances of which are still under investigation.

A well-known and much-loved former local, Mr McClure found national and international fame with his satirical, musical take on all things rural, but particularly shearing and he was honoured with a minute’s silence at last Saturday’s Casterton P&A Quick Shear.

“Adam was extremely well known in the shearing industry and local community,” event manager, Amy Tierney said.

“Everything he said and wrote about shearing, even if you didn’t know him, you could tell he was a shearer, he knew the industry, the culture and how it gets in your blood.

“So many people at the carnival knew him or knew of him and we thought it was just a fitting thing to do, to have that event in his honour.”

Originally from the Coleraine area, Mr McClure made his musical debut at 17, when he decided to try his hand at playing guitar during his last year of school at The Hamilton and Alexandra College.

He then began writing his own songs, which led to the launch of his professional music career in 2013, when his first song, titled ‘The Shearer’, received public recognition, getting more than 3000 downloads on Triple J Unearthed.

After that, he continued to make music, writing songs about country life that include dry Aussie humour backed by catchy melodies.

Some of his most popular songs were ‘Hamilton Part 1 and 2’, ‘The 50 Stroke’, ‘The Shearer’ and ‘Smashing Tinnies’.

He released his last album, ‘Let’s Keep the Truth to a Minimum’ on 6 September, 2021, which he said reflected his music going in a more “grown up” and personal direction, rather than a song that just made people laugh.

Since hearing the news on Friday, friends, colleagues and fans have flooded social media with tributes, paying their respects with heartfelt comments and posts.

He was described on Facebook as “a legend who will never be forgotten” and someone who brought joy to many with his creative and relatable songs, with international shearing equipment manufacturer, Heiniger, joining the tributes:

“Heiniger Australia was saddened to hear of the passing of the legend that was Adam McClure - The Singing Shearer. Many a time has a Heiniger Rep walked into a shed and his tunes were blaring proudly. And we can't forget - 'he and Gary Lyon go way back'. Our condolences go out to his family and loved ones. Gone too soon.”

In addition to his musical career, his early foray into the world of professional boxing has also been noted, with his former coach paying an emotional tribute to his friend and student.

“Mocka’s Boxing Club has received some very sad news over the weekend with the passing of Adam McClure. Not only one of the gyms founding members, but the person who talked Mocka into starting boxing training. Going to the butches shop for weeks on end hassling Mocka to teach him how to box. Adam went on to win two State titles and represented Victoria at National titles. He was an idol and fantastic roll model for juniors in the gym, he was a true gentleman that always had time to help anyone in need. RIP Adam, you will never be forgotten by the gym.

“Deepest condolences to the McClure family.”

Mr McClure is the son of Gordon and Jane McClure of Konongwootong and he leaves behind two young daughters.

A Go Fund Me page has been established by friend, Nick Martin, to support Mr McClure’s children:

“Adam ‘The Wether Wrestler’ McClure passed away tragically on the 3rd of December. He was 32. His death represents a great loss for the shearing industry, his hometown of Coleraine and has been felt around Australia and the World. His loss is felt most keenly amongst his friends and most deeply by his family,” Mr Martin wrote in his tribute.

“Adam was my best mate. He was an honourable man.

“He is survived by his partner, his former wife and his two beautiful daughters. Adam loved his girls and was a dedicated and caring father.

“Please join me in honouring this very special man and donate whatever you can to provide some much needed funds to carry his two beautiful children along the rocky road ahead. He was one of a kind.”

Donations can be made at gofundme.com/f/memorial-fund-for-adam-mcclures-girls.