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Share a Yarn

To deepen connection, cultural safety and holistic development by providing consistent mentoring, meaningful cultural immersion, tailored high performance support and leadership opportunities across the year.

The AIS Share a Yarn Program was established in 2020 and is grounded in the belief that when athletes feel culturally safe, connected, and supported, they are empowered to thrive.

The program creates space for First Nations athletes to yarn, reflect, and reconnect with their identity beyond high-performance sport. Through meaningful relationships with mentors, Elders, and peers, athletes are reminded that culture is a source of strength, resilience, and wellbeing.

Throughout the year athletes will meet with their mentors online, attend monthly storytelling sessions and attend a cultural connection camp in October.

More than a program, Share a Yarn is a community. We walk alongside athletes at every stage of their journey and supporting them to carry their culture with pride, on and off the field.

Expression of Interest for 2026 Share a Yarn program now open

APPLY TODAY

AIS Share a Yarn ambassadors Isabella and Jasmin Guthrie, and mentor Mariah Williams visit the East Kimberley to connect with remote communities, culture and Country.

Wheelchair Basketballer Clarence ‘CJ’ McCarthy-Grogan who’s a proud Yanyuwa, Garrawa, Kuku-Yalanji man shares what he loves most about the program.

Program goals

  • Help athletes strengthen their cultural identity
  • Connect athletes with First Nations mentors
  • Safeguard athletes from system fatigue in sport
  • Provide a place of belonging
  • Develop leadership capability

Eligibility

  • Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
  • Current or former categorised athlete OR have represented Australia with an Olympic, Paralympic or Commonwealth Games sport.
  • Have no anti-doping rule violations or match fixing offences at any time.

2025 Ambassadors

#InThisTogether

Through programs like #ShareAYarn, we are committed to our reconciliation journey for all Australians. We recognise the outstanding contribution Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders have made, and continue to make to sport. We denounce racism in any form #InThisTogether.

Contact

For further information about this program or opportunities to be involved please contact Community Engagement Adviser, Tanisha Williams, via tanisha.williams@ausport.gov.au

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