Tom Curtain combines music and animal training in his act. Photo: Supplied.
Singer, horseman and anti-bullying campaigner Tom Curtain is coming to the Riverina, with shows planned for Harden, Condobolin, Rankins Springs and The Rock.
The tour will showcase real horse training and working dog demonstrations, mixed in with bush stories followed by two hours of live music and performances by fellow artists Laura Frank, Chris Matthews, Nick Morrissey, and Melanie Gray.
“Our shows are raw and real; no two are the same because the animals have their own personalities, so it’s unpredictable, funny and heartfelt,” Mr Curtain said.
Mr Curtain shot to national prominence when he became the official ambassador for Dolly’s Dream, a mental health movement sparked by the suicide of Amy ‘Dolly’ Everett, who took her life after being bullied at school.
He regularly visits schools across regional Australia while on tour, speaking with students about kindness and looking out for one another.
“When we visit schools, I sing songs, share stories and get kids involved. It’s about showing them it’s OK to step outside your comfort zone and to look out for each other,” he said.
“The book carries that same message in a fun way, using our animals as characters.”
Following the death of Dolly, Curtain wrote the song Speak Up, which reached No. 1 on the Australian iTunes chart. The song, and related merchandise, has helped raise more than $100,000 to support anti-bullying education and resources for children in regional Australia.
The 47-year-old was born in Mildura and raised on a cattle station in Kumbia, Queensland and has performed his Katherine Outback Experience show to communities around Australia for more than 10 years. He has previously won a Golden Guitar, an annual award for excellence in country music.
His Riverina visit is part of a six-month tour across the eastern states which includes eight horses, twelve working dogs, four goats, and Pumpkin the pony.
Over the past decade, his show has grown from a small act with just one horse, two dogs and a swag into a large-scale production that brings audience members onto the dance floor.
“Some of the most rewarding moments are when people come up after a show with tears in their eyes, thanking us for bringing joy to their town,” Curtain said.
“It’s more than entertainment – it’s about giving people a night out, a reason to reconnect, and a reminder that they’re not alone.
The following shows have been planned for the Riverina:
Harden Rodeo Ground at 5:30 pm on Friday 13 February.
Condobolin Pony Club at 5:30 pm on Saturday 14 February.
Rankins Springs Pony Club at 3:30 pm on Sunday 15 February.
The Rock Showgrounds at 6 pm on Friday 20 February.
Tickets can be purchased on the Tom Curtain website.
If you or someone you know needs help, you can contact:
Lifeline’s 24-hour crisis support line – 13 11 14Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467Kids Helpline – 1800 551 800 or kidshelpline.com.auMensLine Australia – 1300 789 978.
