Maddison Brown has walked runways, starred on screen, and built businesses. But no matter where she’s been—New York, Los Angeles, Atlanta, or London—Australia has always been her anchor.

Maddison grew up in Dural, a leafy suburb nestled in nature on the outskirts of Sydney. “We’re so amongst nature here. I spent a lot of time outside when I was growing up. The beach, the ease, the accessibility—it’s unmatched. You can work in the city in Sydney and go to the beach that same afternoon. That’s the kind of life I love.” That deep connection to the outdoors never left her—and it’s part of what brought her home to Australia six months ago to grow a business with her sister.

With a career that began in acting at five and modelling at thirteen, Maddison was immersed in fashion from a young age. It shaped not only her creative eye but her personal style. “I like my style to reflect who I am. I don’t follow trends too hard. I prefer something classic, minimalist—timeless. I like to invest in high-quality pieces that will last. Akubra fits that perfectly.” Whether it’s boots, a jacket, or a well-shaped hat, Maddison’s wardrobe is about meaning and longevity.

One of her earliest memories of an Akubra is watching her dad wear his, day in and day out.

“He was a builder, out in the sun all day. He wore his Akubra every day—through sun, sweat, and rain. He still has that same hat 20 years later. That’s the kind of quality I admire.”

Today, you’ll spot Maddison in her Akubra everywhere—from Bondi to Byron. “I love wearing it to the beach. It’s a cool cowgirl beach vibe. And there’s nowhere more important to be sun safe.” Having lived in Atlanta near Nashville, she’s familiar with modern country culture and says confidently, “No one does a cowboy hat like Akubra.”

Maddison’s love of hats goes beyond fashion. Her family’s experience with melanoma shaped her commitment to sun safety. “My dad’s best friend died from melanoma at 32.” That moment changed everything. “It made my dad extremely aware of sun safety—and he passed that on to us. He always wore a hat. We always wore hats, rash shirts. My older sister even got grounded if she got sunburnt.” That family legacy became something more when Maddison and her sister launched a sunscreen brand. “Akubra is a cool fashion statement for sure, but it’s also essential in everyday Australian life.”

Maddison Brown’s journey is one of creativity, resilience, and staying grounded—even in a fast-paced world. From red carpets to rural backyards, her Akubra remains a symbol of where she comes from—and where she’s going. “It’s more than a hat. It’s a part of who we are here in Australia.”