John “Hurlo” Hurlston, a vibrant and eclectic soul, left an indelible mark on the world through his extraordinary life and diverse passions. Known as a bon vivant, his journey began in the pastoral settings of a dairy farm in Kyabram, Victoria. Here, amidst the rolling fields, John developed a curiosity that would lead him on global adventures and secure his place in the tapestry of music history.
His academic brilliance shone early as he became the dux of Kyabram High School, a feat that propelled him to Caulfield Grammar. He further honed his intellect and athletic prowess there, excelling in sports such as football and cross-country running. His path led him to Melbourne University, where he initially embarked on a science course before finding his calling in pharmacy at the College of Pharmacy.
Despite his professional career as a pharmacist, John’s heart belonged to music, particularly to vintage guitars and stringed instruments. His passion ignited at the tender age of thirteen when he purchased his first guitar for the modest sum of £5. Over the decades, this passion evolved into a remarkable collection of over 250 instruments, many of which were of museum quality. Guitarists worldwide sought out John, eager to witness his rare collection and partake in the lively jam sessions that animated his kitchen at Kensington.
John’s reluctance to part with his prized possessions was legendary. An offer from Marlon Brando for one of his snakeskin jackets was famously declined, a testament to his deep attachment to his curated treasures. His entrepreneurial spirit saw him establish several businesses like ‘Fretted Instruments’ and ‘Warehouse Sound,’ cementing his status as a pivotal figure in the music community.
John’s adventures were not confined to collecting; he was an avid traveller, journeying annually to expand his collection and explore new cultures. During his travels in the late 1960s, he met his life-long partner, Sandy Holmes, in London. Their shared love for music and life’s finer pleasures forged a bond over four decades, culminating in their marriage in 2014.
Returning to Melbourne in the early 1970s, John and a friend acquired the Victoria Market Pharmacies, which they ran harmoniously for 40 years. Away from the bustling city, John and Sandy retreated to their mudbrick house at Glenpatrick in the Pyrenees. There, they hosted mini-music festivals and epicurean gatherings, where John’s knack for storytelling and lively debates was always on full display.
John’s legacy as a collector and musician remains unparalleled. His collection, a symphony of history and artistry, featured everything from a 1928 Gibson L-5 to intricate Syrian ouds. Each piece in his collection was a testament to his meticulous taste and sheer dedication to the art of music.
John “Hurlo” Hurlston passed away from a rare skin tumour, but his influence and legacy live on. He is survived by his beloved Sandy and his brother Bill. His life, a melody composed of passion, intellectual pursuit, and an unwavering love for music, remains a source of inspiration.
As Hurlo himself might have said, his journey was not one to be rushed but savoured, each chapter a vibrant note in the symphony of life.
