Mission
Our mission is to remove barriers and create opportunities for Australians who need it most by empowering individuals and communities through experiences, support, and pathways that build dignity, confidence and lasting impact.
About the First Choice Foundation
From the very beginning, First Choice Solar has believed in giving back to the communities that power us.
For more than 15 years, we’ve supported local sports clubs, community organisations and grassroots initiatives across Queensland. We’ve partnered with charities, backed life-changing projects, and proudly run events raising over $100,000 to support neurodivergent children .
Community support has and always been a part of who we are.
The First Choice Foundation represents the next chapter of that commitment.
By formalising our charitable efforts, we are expanding our impact beyond one-off initiatives into structured, long-term programs that create real, measurable opportunities. The Foundation allows us to focus on Australians facing barriers, including children with additional needs, First Nations communities, and communities who may otherwise miss out on access and opportunity.
We are currently developing a series of initiatives centred on access, inclusion and confidence-building experiences. Among them is a surfing accessibility program that will open the ocean to young Australians who may never have had the chance to experience it.
Because sometimes, it’s simply access to opportunity that changes a life.
Our Ambassadors
To bring this vision to life, we are proud to partner with two of Australia’s most respected surfers and Gold Coast locals… men who share our belief in community, inclusion and inspiring the next generation.
We chose these gents not only for their legendary careers, but because they embody the values that has always defined First Choice Solar: integrity, resilience, leadership and a genuine commitment to community.
Together, we’re building something that goes beyond partnership. We’re building pathways.
Bede Durbidge
Bede Durbidge is a former World Tour runner-up, Australian Olympic Surfing Team leader and one of the sport’s most respected figures.
Beyond his elite competitive career, Bede has dedicated himself to mentoring the next generation and using surfing as a platform for leadership and growth. He regularly contributes his time and platform to community driven iniatives and fundraising efforts, believing that sport can be a powerful vehicle for growth and opportunity.
Bede is passionate about creating inclusive pathways into the ocean, ensuring young Australians of all abilities can experience the resilience, freedom and belief that surfing can bring.
Joel Parkinson
Joel Parkinson, World Champion surfer and Australian sporting icon, has represented Australia at the highest level for more than a decade
Known for his humility and authenticity, Joel has long supported charitable initiatives and community fundraising efforts across the region. He believes surfing is more than a sport, it’s a vehicle for belonging, belief and connection.
Joel is committed to helping young Australians access experiences that build courage, confidence and expand what they believe is possible for their future.
Together, the First Choice Foundation and our ambassadors are committed to creating meaningful pathways for Australians who need opportunity most.
Because when communities are supported, individuals thrive.
And when individuals thrive, futures change.
This is only the beginning.