Queensland’s Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk will gift Prince Harry and the Duchess of Sussex a cuddly, hand-made Tambo Teddy for their first child expected next April, when she joins them on their official visit to Fraser Island on Monday (22 October 2018).
Premier Palaszczuk said that Tambo Teddies are much loved and admired in homes all over the world and has made Queensland’s little town of Tambo, with its 345 residents, the outback Teddy capital of Australia.
“Tambo Teddies are also proof positive of the resilience of Queenslanders and how they overcome tough times backing themselves and an Australian made product,” Premier Palaszczuk commented.
Queensland’s official gift for the new royal baby continues a teddy tradition after Prince William and Kate’s two children were each gifted one which sparked a rush of orders. On Prince Harry and Meghan’s first royal visit to Australia they’ve learnt first-hand the harshness of the lives of rural people coping with drought.
Premier Palaszczuk said giving Harry and Meghan a Tambo Teddy was a reminder of the importance of Queensland’s fine wool industry and how much the western parts of Queensland have suffered too from years of unrelenting drought.
“25 years ago, the tiny community of Tambo was again in the grip of drought and locals came up with the idea of making Teddy Bears crafted from 100% woollen sheepskin to create more employment in the town.The cottage industry venture has been an outstanding success. Orders come from all over to purchase a cuddly gift, lovingly handmade in outback Queensland.” Premier Palaszczuk commented “All my nieces and my nephew love their Tambo Teddys. The little woollen bears can take a lot of cuddling and wear and tear and I’m sure Harry and Meghan’s first child will give it just as much love and affection,”