Vic Simms

Vic Simms (1946–2025) was a trailblazing Australian singer, songwriter, and respected Elder whose life story embodied resilience, creativity and cultural leadership.

Born William Victor Simms on 29 January 1946 at the La Perouse Mission, Sydney, he was one of ten children. He began performing at age 11, by 1957 he had already taken the stage at the Manly Jazzorama Music Festival. In 1961, under the name “Vicki Simms,” he released his debut single “Yo Yo Heart.”

His early fame was followed by hardship: after a robbery conviction he spent time in prison. While incarcerated at Bathurst Gaol he taught himself guitar, began writing songs, and recorded what became one of Australia’s earliest Aboriginal protest albums. The album, The Loner, was recorded in the prison dining room and released in 1973 a powerful testament to his talent, voice and determination.

After his release, Vic returned to the entertainment industry and toured widely in clubs, festivals, prisons, and even the Sydney Opera House. Beyond performance, he dedicated decades to cultural education: for more than 15 years he led cultural awareness sessions in schools, universities and community organisations, generously sharing his lived experience, Aboriginal heritage, and commitment to healing and social justice.

In recognition of his life’s work, he received an honorary degree from University of New South Wales in 2024. Vic passed away on 8 February 2025 at age 79. His extraordinary journey from child star to imprisoned songwriter to Elder and cultural Custodian leaves a powerful legacy that continues to inspire across generations and communities.