The announcement comes during National Reconciliation Week 2026 (27 May – 3 June), a time when all Australians are invited to reflect on shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to consider how each of us can contribute to the ongoing journey of reconciliation. This year's theme, Bridging Now to Next, calls on all Australians to step forward together, guided by the lessons of the past as we look to the future, a sentiment that perfectly captures the spirit behind this initiative. 

Ten members have been selected to sit on the Working Group, bringing together a diverse range of voices from across the sailing community, including sailors, club members, coaches, and First Nations representatives. Together, they will drive the development of Australian Sailing's first formal Reconciliation Action Plan, a framework that will guide the organisation's efforts to build stronger, more respectful relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and to remove barriers to participation in the sport at every level. 

The Working Group will be chaired by Sian Harding, who will lead the group through the process of developing a RAP that reflects Australian Sailing's genuine and long-term commitment to reconciliation. 

Among the ten members selected is Conor Nicholas OLY, a name that already holds a special place in Australian sailing history as the country's first Indigenous Olympic sailor. A proud Whadjuk man from Western Australia, Conor's decorated career includes Youth World Championship titles, an F18 World Championship, and a historic appearance at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games as the first Indigenous Australian to compete in sailing at the Olympics where he finished ninth in the Mixed 470 class alongside Nia Jerwood. His inclusion on the RAP Working Group reflects the importance of having sailors and club members with lived experience at the table, helping to shape the direction of the sport. 

"As the first known Indigenous sailor to represent Australia at the Olympics, I feel a deep sense of pride and responsibility in contributing to the RAP Working Group," said Nicholas.

"Over the past 18 months, I have served on the Australian Olympic Committee Athletes' Commission and participated in the AOC Indigenous Advisory Council meetings, which has strengthened my understanding of the importance of meaningful representation, collaboration, and long-term impact. I am passionate about helping create genuine and lasting change for Indigenous peoples within sport and the broader community.

"Being part of the Working Group would allow me to contribute both my lived experience and athlete perspective to help shape a stronger, more inclusive future. I believe it is important that we continue to pave the way for the next generation through action, accountability, and opportunity." 

Australian Sailing Chief Executive Officer Malcolm Page OAM said the formation of the Working Group marked an important first step in a broader and ongoing journey. 

"Australian Sailing is committed to ensuring that sailing is an inclusive sport, accessible and welcoming to every Australian regardless of their background. The development of a Reconciliation Action Plan is not a box to be ticked, it is the beginning of meaningful, lasting change. We are proud to be taking this step during National Reconciliation Week, and proud to have people like Conor Nicholas helping to lead the way." 

The RAP Working Group will begin meeting in the coming weeks, with the goal of developing a formal RAP for endorsement by Reconciliation Australia. The plan will address areas including cultural awareness, community partnerships, participation pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.