Known as one of the best, hard-working DJs that Newcastle has seen over the past 15 years, DJ Encore -AKA Niko Tapaleap, will be honoured this weekend at a benefit night held by The Crown & Anchor Hotel, Newcastle.
Hotel operator Mark Chegwidden said the benefit night aimed to raise money for Niko's fiancee Melissa Konz, who continues to struggle after the sudden passing of her partner.
"Niko was a friend of mine, and of the staff here at the hotel," Mark said.
"He was a regular DJ here and his passing has been a great and sudden loss for everyone."
"Niko was a friend of mine, and of the staff here at the hotel. He was a regular DJ here and his sudden passing has been a great and sudden loss for everyone..."
In 2017, Niko was diagnosed with bowel cancer but according to Mark, kept the secret for quite some time before announcing it on Facebook in the hope of raising awareness and encouraging others to get themselves checked as well.
"He was an extremely humble and gentle man," Mark said.
"He faced the battle head on and with dignity, but unfortunately a couple of days after Christmas, heart complications occurred during chemo treatment and he passed away."
"He was an extremely humble and gentle man.
He faced the battle head on and with dignity..."
"Mel (his fiancee) has been left with some large debts, a house to pay rent on, and therefore has been unable to receive any time off work to mourn.
"This money will help her clear some of those debts, and possibly even let her have that time off to recoup and get back on her feet, " Mark said.
Throughout his career, Niko opened for stars including 50 Cent, G Unit, Akon, Naughty By Nature, and Pitbull, as well as playing regularly at local venues.
Niko and musician Havana Brown.
The benefit night includes a banquet dinner held at Sprout Dining, with additional auctions and raffles. Live music will also be held upstairs from 9pm.
All ticket sales, door sales, raffles and a percentage of the bar will go toward the benefit fund.
Tickets are $50 and can be purchased here via www.stickytickets.com.au
For more information contact the
Crown & Anchor Hotel on (02) 4927 1138