the cool Aussie We caught up with
singer during
What do you love best about touring? I love touring because I love performing and meeting people. I really try to make it a personal experience for the fans. What do you like to have backstage with you? I try and get a kettle or some form of steaming device because steaming is good for my voice. What has been your ‘pinch me’ moment in your journey so far? The X Factor was a huge one, [representing Australia at] Eurovision was another huge one. Who leaves you starstruck? There’s been a few where I’ve been like, ‘What the heck I can’t believe I just met them’, like Keith Urban and Nicole Kidman, and Tori Kelly. Who are the women who have made you who you are? I didn’t grow up with my mum, Mum and Dad were separated from when I was really young, but my music brought my family back together and really built bridges. Me and my mum are super close now and she’s supported me. Also my manager Christine – she’s pushed me out of my comfort zone, helped me grow into the person I am today, pushed me to dig deep, work hard and try new things. You’re proudly Indigenous Australian. Tell us more… Dad is from the Yorta Yorta tribe and mum is from the Gunditjmara tribe. Both tribes are part of who I am; my ancestors are the traditional ancestors. My totem (spiritual emblem) for the Yorta Yorta is the long-necked turtle. 30
You’re an Indigenous mentor, it must be cool to have kids look up to you. It’s a big part of my job to show them they too can go up and do great things no matter what their skin colour is and where they’re from and no matter what their family circumstance is. I experienced a lot [too] when I was growing up, that’s not only molded me to be where I am today, but I use it to drive me to achieve big things. Can you draw us a self-portrait?
