A Tamworth teacher is urging people to understand the importance of taking care of their voice after rupturing his vocal-chords last year.

Grant Scarborough, a 25-year education veteran, is in recovery after sustaining the vocal injury last year and undergoing surgery.

“(I was) confused at how this could happen. My voice has always been a strength for me in my roles, especially as a teacher,” he said.

“I didn’t think one could break their voice but as I went through this I realised how much I need to care for my voice, that I’ve been abusing my voice for years and ignoring the signs.”

“There were times of dismay that this could be permanent, resignation when I realised how significant the condition and recovery was and then acceptance and finally peace that with a good team I’d recover.”

Grant underwent surgery to repair the condition, in which he was unable to speak for a number of weeks, an experience he says was isolating for him. Now in recovery, he’s turning his attention to educating his teaching colleagues and those in other vocally driven professions on the importance of voice care.

He has partnered with UNE Tamworth in a TamTalks event on Tuesday, June 3, to bring this issue to the forefront of the community. He will be joined, virtually, by his speech pathologist, Dr Cate Madill, who is working with him on his recovery and is also developing specialist voice care programs for teachers.

“Communication is at the heart of our humanity and central to engaging with others. It’s also central to many roles and as an educator I realised I could be disabled from functioning,” Mr Scarborough said.

“I’ve experienced something very special, not being able to communicate verbally, being left out of conversation and relationships for a time.

“So many in society suffer this every day and do we notice? I’ve also learnt the importance of knowing about my voice, how fragile it is and the simple things I can do to manage and care for my voice to reduce the load. If my story can help, I’d like to share.”

UNE Senior Manager, Tamworth and Regions, Catherine Lees says Grant’s story is an important one to tell and UNE Tamworth is proud to host this awareness event at the Peel House Study Centre.

“Educators rely on their voices every day to inspire, instruct, and connect with students. Prioritising voice care is not just about personal well-being; it’s an investment in the quality of education and the sustainability of the teaching profession,’ she said.

“Voice disorders can significantly impact an educator’s ability to effectively communicate and manage their classroom. Ignoring voice problems can have a cascading effect on an educator’s career and personal well-being. By understanding the importance of vocal hygiene and seeking timely intervention, educators can protect their most valuable tool and continue to make a difference in the lives of their students.”

“This special TamTalks edition aims to empower educators with practical strategies for preventing voice problems and accessing support. Early intervention can prevent long-term damage and keep educators communicating confidently.”

Members of the public are invited to attend this UNE TamTalk, held on Tuesday, June 3 at UNE Tamworth (24 Fitzroy St) from 5 until 6.30pm.

Light refreshments will be provided to people who register via the Eventbrite site.