Our little town sits right in the heart of Queensland’s outback, a charming and character-filled place where history (we’re the oldest town in the west!) and landscape are closely connected. The country here opens out into wide, sweeping plains of Mitchell grass, dotted with pockets of hardy gidyea scrub. It’s also where the mighty Barcoo River begins its journey, adding to the quiet beauty and significance of this unique outback region.

In days gone by, Tambo was firmly sheep country. At its peak, the region supported more than 570,000 sheep, with sprawling stations running large flocks across the district. Wool was king, and the local economy thrived on it. Shearing sheds buzzed with activity during the season, teams of shearers worked long days, and bales of wool were a source of pride for station families. Properties such as Lansdowne, Tambo Station, Minnie Downs, and Mt Enniskillen were part of a broader network of sheep stations that defined the region’s identity.

Today, that picture has changed dramatically. Sheep numbers have fallen to around 75,000, a significant shift influenced by changing markets (remember the big wool crash of the 1990s), prolonged droughts and the impact of predators such as wild dogs. In a town that once supported three full shearing teams, there is now no one living locally who still works in that industry.

In response to the downturn in wool and sheep numbers, properties transitioned to cattle, which are now far more prevalent across the Tambo district. Where sheep once dotted the plains, herds of cattle now graze. Despite this change, the communities’ connection to the land remains unwavering, with generations of families continuing to care for their properties.

This deep connection to the land is at the heart of Tambo Teddies. From the very beginning, each teddy bear has been named after a local property, not just the historic sheep stations, but all properties across the region. Names like Ercildoune, Jynoomah, Toolmaree and many others are carefully chosen, ensuring every bear carries a genuine link to Tambo’s pastoral heritage. It’s a tradition that honours the families, the land, and the stories that make this region so unique.

But the story doesn’t end when a teddy leaves Tambo. We also record where each bear goes to live, creating a remarkable map of journeys from the outback to homes across Australia and around the world. Each bear becomes an ambassador for Tambo, carrying with it the spirit of the community and the legacy of the land it represents.

If you ever find yourself in Tambo, why not take your visit a step further and discover the story behind your very own teddy?

Each Tambo Teddy is named after a local property, and with a bit of outback exploring, you can head out along the side roads and actually find the place your bear is named after. It’s a wonderful way to experience the region, driving through open country, soaking in the landscape, and connecting with the land that inspired your teddy.

Don’t forget to snap a photo of your bear at its namesake property and send it through to us, we love seeing where our teddies travel and the special connections they make along the way!