The Australian Tattoo Industry — and indeed, the worldwide tattoo community — is mourning the passing of one of its most cherished and pioneering figures, Bev “Cindy Ray” Nicholas, who left this world peacefully on Sunday, 13th July 2025, at the age of 82. Bev was surrounded by love, with her devoted daughter Leah at her side as she took her final breath.
Bev Nicholas, best known by her show name Cindy Ray, was far more than a tattooed beauty from the carnival circuits — she was a trailblazer, a survivor, a master of her craft, and a radiant spirit whose influence helped shape generations of artists and enthusiasts in the world of tattooing. From her humble beginnings to international recognition, Bev carved a path in an industry that, at the time, left little room for women — and she did it with unmatched grace, resilience, and flair.
A Tattooed Star is Born
Bev’s journey into the world of body art began in the early 1960s. Under the name Cindy Ray, she became a living canvas — famously dubbed “The Classy Lassie with the Tattooed Chassis” — as she traveled the sideshow circuits throughout Australia and New Zealand. Promoted by the notorious photographer and self-styled entrepreneur Harry Bartrum, Bev’s image was immortalized in photo books and even “Cindy Ray tattoo kits,” all marketed without her financial benefit. Despite this, Bev took the spotlight and turned it into a lifelong legacy.
While Bartrum may have profited from her early stardom, Bev eventually took charge of her own destiny. When her partner broke his hand and could no longer work, Bev picked up the tattoo machine herself — and the rest is history. What began as necessity evolved into a passionate, 60-year career behind the needle. In doing so, she not only became one of Australia’s first female tattoo artists but also broke down the gender barriers in an industry once dominated by men.
A Legacy Rooted in Williamstown
Bev remained deeply connected to her hometown of Williamstown, Victoria. Her first tattoo studio was located opposite the Williamstown Beach railway station, and she later moved operations to Kororoit Creek Road, right next to the Rifle Club Hotel. Though she tattooed in various locations — including Flinders Street in Melbourne under Vaughan Griffiths and a year and a half at Patsy’s Tattoo Tapestry in Yarraville — Williamstown remained her spiritual home.
Bev eventually returned to her beloved Kororoit Creek Road studio, working alongside artists like Greg Hoskins and others who respected and revered her. The shop still stands today, lovingly run by Kenny Mac — a dear friend and talented tattooist — and serves as a living tribute to Bev’s enduring presence and impact. It is a shrine to not just her work, but her unwavering spirit, decorated with photographs, mementos, and the energy of countless lives she touched.
An International Ambassador of Ink
Bev’s impact wasn’t limited to Australian shores. She made multiple trips to the United States and the United Kingdom, where she built lasting friendships with fellow artists, many of whom later journeyed to Australia simply to meet her in person. Wherever she went, Bev carried with her a warmth and humility that drew people in. She had an uncanny ability to make everyone she met feel seen, valued, and remembered. She gave generously of herself — her time, her heart, her stories — never expecting anything in return.
To so many, Bev was a legend. But to those lucky enough to know her personally, she was so much more. She was a dear friend, a beacon of kindness, and a guiding light in the world of tattooing. She lived with authenticity and courage, forever lifting others even as she carried the weight of her own challenges.
A Devoted Mother, Grandmother, and Sister
While her public persona earned her global admiration, Bev’s most cherished roles were those she held within her family. She was a beloved mother to her late son Craig and her daughter Leah, who remained by her side to the end. She was a caring mother-in-law to Tony, and a deeply adored grandmother to Nick and Luke.
Her love extended to her sisters Gloria and Elvie, their families, and her wide circle of relatives and chosen family, each of whom held a special place in her heart.
An Icon Etched in Time
Bev Nicholas will forever be remembered not only as Cindy Ray, the tattooed showgirl who captivated a continent, but as the artist, mentor, friend, and mother who gave so much to so many. Her name will continue to be spoken with reverence in tattoo parlors, convention halls, and among artists new and old — each inked line a tribute to the woman who helped make it all possible.
To Leah, Tony, Nick, Luke, Gloria, Elvie, and all who knew and loved Bev, the Professional Tattooing Association of Australia Inc. extends its deepest, most heartfelt condolences.
Rest easy now, Bev — our radiant friend, our fearless pioneer, our beloved Classy Lassie.
You’ve left your mark, not only in ink but in all our hearts.
With love always,
Patsy
For the Professional Tattooing Association of Australia Inc.
