Surf Life Saving Queensland proudly recognises the lasting legacy and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as protectors of life, whose heroism is deeply rooted in their connection to Country. As the Traditional Custodians of lands and waters, First Nations people have shown remarkable bravery and dedication in protecting those who pass through their Country, often at great personal risk.
These acts of valour, and many more like them, reflect the deep cultural commitment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to their communities and to all who visit their lands. Their stories serve as a powerful reminder of the lasting presence and contributions of First Nations people to the safety and wellbeing of all Australians.
The bravery of First Nations people, deeply rooted in their connection to Country and their knowledge of the land and waters, aligns with the purpose of Surf Life Saving Queensland, where vigilance and service are essential to safeguarding lives.
Here are just some of their stories…
The remarkable legacy of Churaki, a Bundjalung man, whose cultural duty and bravery at Tweed Heads Coolangatta SLSC shaped the early history of Surf Life Saving in Queensland.
In 1847, seven Nunukul men from Minjerribah and Moorgumpin risked their lives to save ten survivors of the Sovereign wreck, leaving an enduring mark of courage.
The heroic story of Muara Lifu Wacando, a young Torres Strait Island woman, who saved two men from a raging cyclone, earning a gold medal for her bravery.
In 1917, John Cabbo’s selfless rescue during a flood at the Condamine River secured his place in history as a true emergency responder.
Another record of such heroism, during a natural disaster is that of John Cabbo from the Barambah Aboriginal settlement in Queensland, who was awarded a Certificate of Merit in 1917, for his courageous rescue of a man from the flooded Condamine River.
Silas Prior’s extraordinary efforts in 1947 earned him a rare silver medal for bravery.
In 1947, Silas Prior from Palm Island was honoured for saving three people from drowning. Two years later, he received a silver medal from the Royal Humane Society of Australasia, underscoring his bravery at a time when such recognition of First Nations people was uncommon.
Sources:
Gary Osmond, The University of Queensland, “Indigenous Sporting Pasts: Resuscitating Aboriginal swimming history”, Australian Aboriginal Studies, No. 2, 2017, 43‐55.
Craig Walsh – Churaki Hill / Bleach Festival 2017
Tweed Museum – Churaki Saltwater Hero
Queensland Historical Atlas https://www.qhatlas.com.au/content/aboriginal-heroes-episodes-colonial-landscape