Greg Barnes

I am a community leader, youth advocate, and multidisciplinary artist, who has spent the past nine years living on unceded Arrernte country in Mparntwe/Alice Springs. With over 15 years’ experience coordinating skatepark programs and events across Australia, I am deeply committed to youth engagement, social inclusion, and building creative, healthy, and resilient communities.

Grassroots advocacy played a key role in securing over $8 million in funding for a groundbreaking new skatepark in Mparntwe, a landmark achievement driven by my communication skills and dedication to youth-focused infrastructure, equity and access in remote and regional areas. My work regularly engages young people—particularly those at risk—through BMX, skateboarding, cycling, art and creative projects that foster connection, purpose, and belonging.

I hold a BSc (Hons) in Criminology and Sociology and am the founder and editor of Nothing’s Wrong, an independent print magazine and media outlet celebrating global BMX culture. I’ve collaborated with Eastern Arrernte skater Nicky ‘Skateboard’ Hayes since founding Spinifex Skateboards; a locally driven social enterprise supporting Indigenous youth while celebrating Country, culture and lifestyle. 

I am an award-winning and published photographer, writer, and videographer, documenting street-level culture with a focus on public space, urban interpretation, music, and community resilience. I am also active in community radio and regularly volunteer my time to support initiatives that promote social enterprise, sustainability, and healthy lifestyles.

Through my work, I strive to create positive social change, promote inclusion, and empower young people. Bringing a strong community ethic, creative insight, and a collaborative approach to every project, with a vision to elevate youth voices; making a lasting impact across Australia. 

My Churchill Fellowship will enable me to engage in a cross-cultural exchange with First Nations skateboarding organisations, exploring how skateboarding can empower youth, strengthen cultural identity, and support social enterprise. Learning from and sharing with international communities, bringing back strategies to support and strengthen First Nations-led skateboarding initiatives in Australia.