Kindy kids inspired by music and culture

Tambo, who appeared on Australia’s Got Talent, read from his children’s book I AM ME during the session and taught children words in Gamilaraay, an Indigenous language.

The experience featured cultural face painting, a dance party and a didgeridoo performance, where Tambo played animal sounds for the children to guess.

Tambo said his educational tour has been running for three years, driven by a desire to “give back”.

“I know what it's like to grow up without a dad present, and to go through different things in life,” he said.

“Then losing my dad, and the grief and loss around that, and just the many facets of life that we journey through.

“So I think it’s important that kids can see you out there succeeding and achieving, but also feel like you’re relatable.

“I think that’s what drives me, really — helping young people who might need that.”

Tambo said his message was about resilience and self-belief.

“Life’s about getting out there and having a crack — not camping in the pain or the trials of life, but picking yourself up and having a go again,” he said.

He said his work also encouraged cultural pride and curiosity, sparking important conversations.

“People look at me and see an Aboriginal artist and I bring my culture and that’s important, but the main thing is showing someone who doesn’t fit the mould, who is unapologetically themselves,” he said.

Tambo said balancing his career with being a husband and dad could be challenging at times.

“It's a big juggle,” he said.

“But I think when you do something that's full of purpose, and you believe in it, you'll find a way to make it all worthwhile.”

Katamatite kindergarten teacher Jacquie Monk said she was a “massive fan” of Tambo and helped bring his tour to the town.

“I wasn’t sure how we were going to afford it, then I thought, if we got all the kinders in the Moira Shire area, then we can share the cost and make this happen,” she said.

Ms Monk said the show was “fantastic”, with children and teachers clearly engaged.

“There was lots of participation and sharing of culture between all our kids and with Mitch,” she said.

“We don't get a lot of opportunities to do things like this as a regional kindy, so it’s a lovely opportunity for them to have that experience.

“All these children, 168 of them, will walk away now with this beautiful memory, and hopefully, it also instils a love for culture and performance.”