Paul Hester

Paul Hester was an Australian musician and television personality who was born in Melbourne, Victoria, on 8 January 1959. He was the drummer for the bands Split Enz and Crowded House, and also played in other bands such as Cheks, Deckchairs Overboard, Love Party, Ultrasound and Largest Living Things. He was known for his energetic and creative drumming style, as well as his witty and irreverent personality. He was given the nickname Hessie by his bandmates and fans. He left Crowded House in 1994, citing exhaustion and a desire to spend more time with his family. He later opened a tea house in Elwood Beach, where he often performed with local musicians. He also became a regular guest on radio and television shows, such as Hey Hey It's Saturday, The Panel, The Wright Way and Hessie's Shed. He hosted his own music show on ABC called Hessie's Shed, where he interviewed and jammed with various artists. He also had a recurring role as Paul the Cook on the children's program The Wiggles, where he performed songs and skits with the band. He suffered from depression and spent eight years in therapy. He died by suicide on 26 March 2005 in Elsternwick Park near his home. He was 46 years old.