Setting an example

Teacher takes on dance challenge to inspire students

“When I heard about Swinging with the Stars, I loved the idea; when someone suggested I give it a go I laughed at them and ran away.”

That was how it panned out for Mount Gambier High School teacher Nic Tubb to end up as one of the eight celebrities preparing to dance the night away at the June 17 Swinging with the Stars gala performance at The Barn – the popular annual fundraiser for the Stand Like Stone Foundation. In the end, it was all about walking the walk for Nic and setting an example.

“Eventually they convinced me because being brave is something I tell my students they should be open to,” he said.

Nic (pictured right showing his natural flair) is raising funds for the Mount Gambier High School sub fund, which is used to support current and past students with school, TAFE or University costs.

And as with so many of the 2023 performers, being part of the fundraising dance competition has opened his eyes about the role of the Stand Like Stone Foundation’s work in the community.

“I only really knew they had a cool name. I had no idea that they do so much in and with the community,” Nic said.

And on the fundraising front Nic has an upcoming event – a Quiz Night happening on Thursday, June 1, at the North Gambier Football Club with the $15 tickets available from https://tinyurl.com/ MGHSQuiz

Nic might not have a strong dance background but he has come into the 2023 competition with some handy transferrable skills.

“I’ve been a gymnastics instructor since 2012 teaching tumbling and circus acrobatics and performed in several Adelaide Fringe festivals, but I’ve never done danced in front of people before; it’s a whole new world,” he said.

He has built up somewhat of a love-hate relationship with rehearsals but with experienced partner Keana Soper providing plenty of encouragement, he feels like he is heading in the right direction.

“I go home exhausted from using my brain so much, but the group make it fun, and the dancers and Kym are so supportive it’s wonderful and as soon as I leave, I can’t wait until the next week,” Nic said. “I’m totally going to have dance withdrawal afterwards.

“Keana has been amazing – she’s been so supportive, dragging me through my insecurities and now our tango is looking pretty fierce.”

The tango might be in Nic’s comfort zone now but he is still sweating on getting the hip hop right.

“I feel really awkward, but apparently, I have more swag than I give myself credit for.” You can also donate to Nic’s campaign through the Stand Like Stone Foundation website and follow the links.