Surfing Victoria launch Reconciliation Action Plan

SURFING Victoria has released its first Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) as it aims to build on its 27 commitment toward addressing racism and social inequality in Victoria.

Endorsed by Reconciliation Australia, Surfing Victoria’s RAP focuses on continuing to improve engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

The state’s surfing body strives for the Victorian surf community to be one where all are respected and celebrated, with pathways to equitable participation available for all people across the sport.

Through its RAP, Surfing Victoria say this is achievable by focusing on four key factors – relationships, respect, opportunities and governance.

Surfing Victoria’s Indigenous Surfing Program is one of the longest running First Nations engagements in the country.

Since 1998, it has provided more than 700 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people annually with opportunities to thrive and explore their culture through surfing.

Examples include The Woorangalook Victorian Koori Surfing Titles, Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles, regional surf programs, inland paddleboarding programs and other major events.

Surfing Victoria believe developing new stakeholder relationships, increasing First Nations employment and fostering future leaders are steps towards reconciliation.

This will be done by encouraging participation through Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community events, programs, cultural ceremonies and other engagement opportunities.

Surfing Victoria chair Ashleigh Wall said the organisation was thrilled to launch its first Reconciliation Action Plan.

“The RAP is a milestone in our long-standing commitment to honour, celebrate and empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people through meaningful opportunities and pathways as part of Surfing Victoria.”

Surfing Victoria chief executive officer Adam Robertson agreed..

“We are in the Indigenous Surfing Program’s 27th year, which is amazing,” he said.

“The commitment to the program as an entire organisation from all staff to board members is a testament to the organisations love of the program.

“Being able to utilise surfing as a tool for positive change shows surfing is something much more than just a sport.

“The RAP now provides the framework for moving forward to ensure we can have the best outcomes possible.”

The existing RAP will run through until June 2026, with a new plan to be developed thereafter by Mr Robertson and RAP Champion and Surfing Victoria indigenous aquatics manager Jordie Campbell.