We’re proud to welcome First Nations Lifeguards as a supporter of the 2026 BrightSky Australian Pro Adaptive Surfing Championships in Byron Bay.
First Nations Lifeguards is an Indigenous-owned service providing culturally tailored water safety, ocean skills training and event lifeguarding, helping reconnect communities with the ocean while promoting safe participation in coastal environments. Founded by Brook Silvester, the organisation focuses on empowering Indigenous youth and strengthening cultural connections to waterways across Australia.
Their work blends modern surf safety practices with the deep traditional knowledge that First Nations peoples hold about saltwater, rivers and lakes. Through training programs, event support and community initiatives, First Nations Lifeguards helps create safer ocean environments while ensuring Indigenous voices remain at the forefront of surf safety and coastal protection.
Programs such as the “Eyes for Lives” initiative aim to improve water safety awareness, build confidence in the ocean and provide meaningful training and employment pathways for Indigenous youth. These initiatives create opportunities for young people to develop skills in areas such as lifeguarding, water safety education and community leadership.
The involvement of First Nations Lifeguards at the Adaptive Surf Pro reflects the event’s commitment to inclusion, safety and respect for the deep cultural connection between Indigenous communities and the ocean.
We’re honoured to have First Nations Lifeguards supporting the championships and helping ensure a safe and welcoming environment for athletes, spectators and the wider community.
