Susanna Freymark
Singers Keith Urban and Taylor Swift are regulars at Urbenville Public School.
It may only be through songs and life size cutouts but the students at this small school at Urbenville learn literacy through songs written by Urban and Swift.
Principal Chris Sifko said the students deeply connect with both Keith Urban and Taylor Swift—not only because they love their music, but also because they admire what these artists represent.
“Both Keith and Taylor are remarkable role models known for their generosity, positivity, and kindness—qualities that naturally resonate with young people,” Mr Sifko said.
“As with Keith, Taylor is practically a regular in our classroom – at least through the speakers and our poetry.
“If our adventures with Keith have demonstrated anything, it’s that dreams come true and with Keith cheering us on, we may just be practicing our hellos.”
Urbenville School students take their love of Keith Urban seriously and at a recent concert of his in Brisbane they wore their Keith Urbenville t-shirts.
It is the second time they’ve been to an Urban concert.
In 2021, the students had a Zoom call with Urban after he heard they had been learning his songs. He donated 21 guitars to the school to practice their music.
Then in 2022, Urban invited the students to his concert in Brisbane.
“Back in 2022, he made a heartfelt promise to the students during our first VIP event, and he never once wavered in his commitment,” Mr Sifko said.
“By following through on that promise, Keith not only showed the students how much he cares but also set a powerful example of trust and dedication.”
On August 17, the school was invited to another Urban concert at Brisbane Entertainment Centre.
“From the moment our tour bus was quietly guided to the restricted backstage parking, the students were carefully and thoughtfully led through security and behind the scenes,” Mr Sifko said.
“Passing by support acts preparing for the show, our students moved in single file, filled with awe and excitement, until we reached a private room where Keith awaited.
“Keith’s humility and approachability shone through as he patiently signed every autograph, answered every question with genuine interest, and shared countless hugs and high fives.
“After capturing so many precious moments in photos, we were once again personally escorted into the stadium.
“Wearing our bright yellow Keith Urban 2025 tour t-shirts, we stood out proudly as the crowd smiled and waved at our little group of rockstars, cheering us on as we made our way through the growing audience to our specially reserved seats.”
The students were seated next to Urban’s family— a gesture that Mr Sifko said was a true reflection Urban’s warmth, kindness, and sense of belonging that perfectly sums up the incredible way Keith made the experience unforgettable for every one there.
Mr Sifko said it meant a lot to the students to have a celebrity of Keith Urban’s stature not only recognise their hard work but celebrate it so generously and sincerely
“It is something extraordinary,” he said.
“It has given these students a sense of worth and belief in themselves that many might struggle to find.
“This moment will stay with them, reminding them that their efforts matter and that they are seen, valued, and capable of achieving great things.”