WHERE CULTURE MEETS THE SEA

Juraki Surf & Culture Inc. is an Indigenous not-for-profit born from a shared vision of connection — to culture, to community, and to the ocean. Founded in 2016 by Fingal Head locals Joel and Mary Slabb, Juraki began as a response to something the couple witnessed firsthand: young Indigenous surfers with enormous potential drifting away from the sport they loved.

“After running the Banaam Indigenous Surf Invitational in 2015, we saw how many of our young people were being affected by alcohol, drugs and mental health challenges,” says Joel. “We wanted to help where needed — to create opportunity and keep our kids in the water. Surfing is great for the mind and body, and it naturally connects back to culture.”

From those beginnings, Juraki has grown into a grassroots organisation that uses surfing as a powerful tool for empowerment, belonging and cultural pride. Its programs and events are guided by local Elders, ensuring every initiative honours community values and traditional knowledge. “We take pride in taking their advice,” Joel explains. “Culturally, that’s the right way.”

One of Juraki’s most cherished achievements is the Juraki Surf Invitational — an Indigenous-only surf competition that’s as much about connection as it is about waves. “It’s what happens out of the water that’s really special,” says Joel. “The yarns, the stories, the culture night — elders talking with the younger mob, a safe space to ask questions. It’s been said it’s like a modern-day cultural ceremony, just with surfing added.”

For young Indigenous surfers, having a culturally safe and supportive space can be life changing. “When you know there’s a community behind you, you’re more likely to take risks and step into things you might not have,” Joel says. “I remember having elders invested in us — they threw a bunch of us surfers from Fingal in a bus and took us to the first-ever Billabong Indigenous event at Ozzi Pipe down the south coast. Before that, I don’t think any of us were even thinking about competing.”

Beyond competitions, Juraki works quietly behind the scenes to support young people and families across Northern NSW and Southeast Queensland. The organisation has distributed hundreds of surfboards and equipment to Aboriginal communities, easing financial pressures and ensuring more kids can experience the freedom of the ocean. “Hardship comes in many forms,” Joel says. “Sometimes it’s just about giving people something to look forward to — a bit of hope.”

Juraki also addresses the mental health crisis affecting Indigenous youth, offering mentorship, purpose and belonging through surf, sport and community. For Joel, the rewards come in simple but powerful moments: “Every time I see a kid smiling in the surf, or giving a board to someone and seeing the joy it brings — that makes it all worth it.”

While the pandemic temporarily paused the annual Invitational, Joel and Mary are determined to see it return. “We’re slowly getting back to a position where we can bring it back,” Joel says. “I hope one day the kids who’ve benefited from Juraki will take over and inspire the generations to come. Then we’ll see Indigenous surfing at a level only dreamed of.”

How to get involved: Follow Juraki on social media @juraki_surf, reach out to volunteer or sponsor, or donate to support their ongoing programs. Every board, event and opportunity helps close the gap. jurakisurf.com