Vale Wayne Coolwell - NISF Founding President

The National Indigenous Sports Foundation (NISF) is deeply saddened by the passing of our Founding President, Wayne Coolwell, who left us on March 16 in Brisbane.Wayne was the driving force behind the establishment of the NISF and his passion and guidance will be missed by all.

Wayne’s career in the media was ground breaking. Beginning in Queensland newspapers, he joined the ABC as a trainee in 1984, where he transitioned from news and current affairs into sports broadcasting. He played a pivotal role in setting up the ABC Sport office in Darwin and made history as the first Aboriginal sports commentator at the 1986 Commonwealth Games in Edinburgh. His impact in broadcasting continued when he became the inaugural presenter of ABC Radio’s national Indigenous program, Speaking Out, which remains on air to this day, celebrating its 35th year in 2024.

Beyond his work in media, Wayne was a relentless force in the advancement of Indigenous sports. His contributions included establishing the Brisbane AFL team, the Murri Mavericks, and launching Indigenous Sports Queensland. His leadership extended to founding the National Indigenous Sports Foundation, an organisation that has become a vital national voice for First Nations athletes and sporting communities.

Wayne’s commitment was unwavering, even as he battled severe health challenges. He was instrumental in organising the Inaugural National Indigenous Sport Summit in 2017 and led the NISF since its formal establishment in 2020.

Under his leadership, NISF achieved significant milestones, including:

• The revival of the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Sport Awards (NATSISA) after 20 years, with a prestigious ceremony held at the MCG in 2023, honouring sporting legends like Cathy Freeman.

• The Enough is Enough! National Summit in Melbourne, which shed light on the ongoing issue of racism in sport and the broader community.

• Collaborative efforts with National Sporting Organisations to enhance First Nations participation in sports, such as Badminton Australia’s Shuttle Smash program and upcoming initiatives with Softball Australia.

• The launch of Sport Inside, an initiative aimed at reconnecting Indigenous youth in correctional facilities with their culture through traditional games and mentorship.

• International outreach, working towards the establishment of the World First Nations Sports Council, bringing together Indigenous representatives from across the globe.

• Early discussions with AIATSIS to create a National Indigenous Sports Museum in Canberra’s Ngurra precinct.

Wayne was more than a leader—he was a mentor, a connector, and an unwavering advocate for change. His ability to inspire those around him ensured that his vision would live on, even in his absence. His passion for combating racism in sport, as exemplified by his outspoken support for athletes like Adam Goodes and Michael Long, remains a cornerstone of the Foundation’s mission.

As a testament to Wayne’s legacy, the 2025 National Indigenous Sport Awards will be held in Brisbane, a decision made to honour his contributions and ensure he could be celebrated among friends, family, and the sporting community he dedicated his life to.

Wayne Coolwell’s impact on Indigenous sport, media, and advocacy is immeasurable. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Fly high, Wayne. Rest in peace.