- K
Recently, we were shocked to hear that our amazing friend and colleague, Benjamin Graham, lost his teaching and recording studio after the neighbouring business was targeted in an arson attack in the early hours of Tuesday 26 May.
While the 50 incredible Victorian firefighters who attended the blaze managed to minimise the direct fire damage to Ben's studio, the 50,000 litres of water over 5 hours required to save surrounding buildings and businesses completely devastated his space, destroyed or damaged the vast majority of his gear, and took away his livelihood overnight.
It's hard to know the full extent and costs of the damage currently as there is very limited access to the space due to safety concerns. But current estimates indicate complete loss of between $60,000-90,000 worth of equipment and additional gear needing repairs.
Ben taught drum students four days a week in the studio, recorded hundreds of hours of music for clients, and rehearsed with the many bands he performs with. All of that has now come to a standstill.
To make matters even harder, Ben and his wife, Carmen, have an eight-month-old son, Miles, and purchased their first home together just two weeks ago.
While Ben has some insurance (thank goodness), and managed to salvage a few pieces of equipment (including 1 drum kit - amazing!), it will only cover about a 3rd of the equipment that was destroyed, to say nothing of the sudden loss of income he now faces.
We're raising funds to help Ben cover his immediate loss of income (8 weeks) while he finds a new teaching space, and to help replace the drums, recording equipment, computer, data recovery, and other essential gear he needs to get his teaching, recording, and touring business back up and running.
Ben has been quick to point out that times are tough for many people right now, and that he only wants anyone to contribute if they genuinely can.
However, those of us who know Ben also know that he's one of the kindest, most generous, and easy-going people you could hope to meet. He's far too modest to ask for help himself, so we're doing it for him.
If you're able, please consider donating. An independent musician and sole trader has had his livelihood taken from him overnight as the result of a serious crime.
Please also share this campaign with anyone who knows Ben, or anyone who might like to help a talented musician get back on his feet.
Update regarding the fundraising total:
Thank you so much to all those that have already contributed to this campaign. It's going so well, and I know Ben is genuinely touched by everyone's generous contributions. Obviously the best outcome is to cover all of Ben's lost income and equipment. That being the case, we have increased our fundraising goal, and will continue to do so if it continues to do well! Thank you again.
Much love,
James + Jake
ABC News Article on the fire:
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-05-26/suspicious-fire-destroys-spotswood-factory-building-melbourne/106721096
Some of Ben’s music:
Glass Fountain:
Teeny Tiny Stevies:
Co-organizers3
Benjamin Graham
Beneficiary