Roger McLachlan passes away due to cancer at 71

Renowned New Zealand musician Roger McLachlan has passed at the age of 71, following a private battle with pancreatic cancer. 

The artist was Born in New Zealand's South Island, as he gained attention with the original bassist for the iconic Melbourne-based rock band, Little River Band, performing with them from 1975 to 1976. 

He played on the group's 1976 hit single It's a Long Way There, which reached number 28 on the US Billboard chart and saw success in both Australia and new Zealand. 

His death was announced in a heartfelt social media post by fellow musician Michael Oliphant, who wrote: 'It is with enormous sadness I report that Roger McLachlan passed away today from complication due to pancreatic cancer.' 

After his time with Little River Band, McLachlan joined another legendary Melbourne act, Stars, contributing to their 1977 top-20 Australian album Paradise.

Fans and fellow musicians have flooded social media with tributes, mourning the loss of a talented and beloved artist.