Melb Musos Rally Behind George Telek As He Undergoes Mouth Cancer Surgery

Melbourne rockers Not Drowning, Waving will reform this June to raise funds for beloved ARIA award-winning singer George Telek who is currently battling mouth cancer.

The Papua New Guinean artist underwent a five-hour surgery yesterday in Brisbane to remove a large tumour from his bottom lip.

With a crowdfunding campaign currently raising funds to help his subsequent radiation, full facial reconstruction and speech therapy, Not Drowning, Waving – of which Telek used to tour and record with - will play a benefit at Memo in St Kilda on June 9 with support from Underground Lovers.

"Very sad to hear of George's health problems," said Peter Gabriel, who released Telek’s second album, Serious Tam, through his label, Real World Record.

"He made a beautiful record for us with David Bridie. For any fans of his music, or anyone who would like to help, I am sure it will be very much appreciated. We are going to send something.”

More details of the gig are expected to be released in the coming days.