Shihad Merch Burnt In Melbourne Airport Fire

We knew Shihad’s farewell tour would come in hot, but not like this.

Earlier this week, a cargo pallet on the tarmac at Melbourne Airport burst into flames as it was about to be loaded onto a freight plane.

That pallet turned out to be carrying all of Shihad’s merch that was printed and packed and heading to New Zealand for their upcoming tour, which begins in their home country this weekend. Authorities are investigating what caused the fire.

In a press release, the band noted that Australian fans will receive new, freshly printed merchandise before the tour starts next month.

The band said of their merch catching fire, “Over 37 years, you figure you have been through most scenarios that the music industry can throw at you.

“Nonetheless, having your merch burn to the ground at Melbourne Airport en route to NZ is a new energy. Glad that everyone is safe; we are doing all we can to get new stock printed for our sold-out show in Napier this weekend.”

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Shihad’s 37-year career has seen them experience many achievements, such as selling hundreds of thousands of records, winning numerous Aotearoa Music Awards, touring the globe, and getting inducted into Aotearoa’s Music Hall of Fame.

Despite the good times, multiple factors have led to the band’s impending disbandment. The gaps between albums have increased; the band members have commitments outside of Shihad, and none of them will ever half-ass being in the band. So, the band—Jon Toogood, Karl Kippenberger, Phil Knight, and Tom Larkin—made the tough call to say goodbye.

The announcement of their farewell tour was met with great demand, with additional shows announced in Perth, Melbourne, and Brisbane.

You can check out all the tour dates below.