National Reconciliation Week 2026 carries the powerful theme All In, a call for all Australians to commit wholeheartedly to reconciliation every day. It is a reminder that reconciliation is not a spectator sport. It requires action, understanding and a shared commitment to building a better future together.
For First Nations Boardriders Club founder Brook Silvester, the theme resonates deeply.
Fresh off a successful Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles campaign at Bells Beach, where Queensland fielded one of the strongest contingents in the country, Brook claimed victory in the Over 50s Shortboard division at what is widely regarded as the most prestigious event in Indigenous surfing.
“It was incredible to get the winning result,” Brook said. “Queensland had a huge presence at the event and it was great to see so many Indigenous surfers representing their communities.”
As founder of First Nations Boardriders Club, Brook has helped create an inclusive pathway for surfers of all backgrounds. The club has quickly established itself as one of Australia’s fastest-growing boardrider clubs, driven by a philosophy that welcomes everyone.
“You don’t have to be an Indigenous surfer to join,” Brook explained. “We want all people, of all races and all abilities, to feel welcome. We’re building a platform for our people while embracing everyone who wants to be part of the journey.”
The timing of the Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles, alongside National Reconciliation Week and National Sorry Day, adds further significance for Brook, who is a survivor of the Lost Generations.
“My mum was Irish and my dad was Indigenous, and at the time Australia wouldn’t allow them to raise me together,” he said. “I was taken from my family and stolen from my culture.”
Brook’s journey to reconnect with his heritage was long and challenging. With support from friends and community, he eventually discovered his Bundjalung ancestry. The revelation was made even more meaningful by the fact that the place he now calls home, Tugun on the southern Gold Coast, sits within his traditional Country.
“Finding my mob wasn’t easy, but it helped me reconnect with who I am,” he said.
Today, that connection drives his work with First Nations Boardriders Club, which continues to create opportunities for Indigenous surfers while strengthening understanding and connection across the broader surfing community. The club has ambitious goals ahead, including aspirations to compete in future Australian Boardriders Battle qualifying events and the 2027 World Club Championship.
For Brook, reconciliation is ultimately about unity, respect and shared understanding.
“Reconciliation Week is about recognising Indigenous people and seeing everyone in Australia as one big mob,” he said. “We’re not dividing Australia, we’re embracing Australia. We want people to understand our history, celebrate our culture and move forward together.”
As the surfing community reflects on the message of All In, Brook’s story serves as a powerful reminder that reconciliation is strengthened through connection, inclusion and a willingness to walk and surf together toward a shared future.
