Former Wagga boy Jarryd Byrne is best known for his appearances on Dancing With The Stars and on stage in Strictly Ballroom.
But it is in front of a classroom full of students teaching them the latest moves that he feels the most at home.
He returned to his hometown this week to judge the Riverina Dance Challenge on Saturday night and give lessons to Riverina school students.
He went to The Rock Central School on Friday and Ashmont Public School on Monday.
“Rather than doing the Macarena or Nutbush, we are teaching them cool hip hop moves or salsa,” he said.
“It’s always so exciting to be back home and doing what I love.
“I love coming back to inspire kids … and seeing all the talent in the Riverina.”
Byrne wants to break down the stigma that is attached to dance, especially for boys, and get more students involved.
He said learning how to dance with a partner helps boys and girls become comfortable in each other’s company.
“You have to learn respect and you have to take care of your partner,” he said.
Byrne taught his first class at Ashmont Public School 10 years ago and is always amazed at the calibre of talent there.
“Ashmont has always been very welcoming … and their response to music and dance is great,” he said.
His exposure on television through Dancing With The Stars has increased his public profile.
He said he still cannot get used to his semi-celebrity status.
“I take a lot of selfies,” he said.
“The selfie is the new signature.”
Byrne owns FIT2MOVE, which teaches students confidence, co-ordination, self-worth and fitness through dance.
He will be bringing the program to schools in Wagga at least once a term in 2017 and will return as early as next month.
