Gifting has never been easier
Perfect if you're short on time or are unable to deliver your gift yourself. Enter your message and select when to send it.
BENEATH THE BRIM WITH
Trent "Maxi" Maxwell
Lifeguard & Firefighter
For more than two decades, Trent "Maxi" Maxwell has dedicated his life to protecting Australians. As a professional lifeguard on Sydney's iconic Bondi Beach and a firefighter, his career has been defined by service, resilience and staying calm under pressure.
Known to many through Bondi Rescue, Maxi represents a modern Australian spirit built on teamwork, humility and showing up when it matters most. Whether he's on the sand, on the fireground or in the community, his work reflects the values that have long been synonymous with Akubra.
Built For The Elements
HOW DO YOU FEEL IN AN AKUBRA, AND WHERE DOES IT BELONG?
It fits well, feels comfortable, and gives me protection from the harsh Australian sun. For me, an Akubra belongs on the coast because that's where I spend most of my time, but when you think of an Akubra, you can't help but picture the Australian outback too. If I'm wearing one, we're probably heading off on some sort of adventure up or down the coast.
WHAT'S YOUR MOST "THIS IS PEAK AUSTRALIA" MOMENT, AND DOES AN AKUBRA MAKE YOU FEEL CLOSER TO AUSTRALIA'S HEART?
It's those early mornings setting up the beach as a lifeguard. The sun rising over the water, that first hit of warmth on your skin, salty air in your lungs, and the steady rhythm of waves rolling in. Moments like that remind you why this country is so special. Wearing an Akubra definitely makes you feel connected to that. It's such an iconic Australian brand and part of our story.
Where Resilience Is Earned
YOUR CAREER HAS BEEN BUILT ON SERVICE. WHAT DOES RESILIENCE MEAN TO YOU?
For me, resilience is about showing up no matter the conditions. Service means being there for others in a real and consistent way. It's taking the values passed down through generations - looking out for your mates, doing your job properly, and staying calm under pressure - and applying them every day. Whether it's on the beach, on the fireground, or in the community, it's about being someone people can rely on when it matters most.
YOU MOVE BETWEEN LIFEGUARDING AND FIREFIGHTING. WHAT HAS SHAPED THE WAY YOU WORK?
The two jobs are actually very similar. Both require staying calm, reading the situation, working as a team, and serving the community. The fundamentals haven't changed: communicate clearly, trust your training, and look out for each other. That's something that's been passed down through generations, and it's still how I operate today.
HOW HAVE YOU EVOLVED THROUGH THOSE EXPERIENCES?
Every challenge shapes you. Like an Akubra, the marks you pick up along the way build character. They've made me more grounded, more resilient, and more aware of what really matters. It's not about recognition - it's about quietly doing your job and being there when people need you most.
The Croc Returns
As part of our 150 Year celebrations, The Croc returns as Hat 006 / 007 in the Heritage Collection. A contemporary homage to an Australian legend, the style was made famous by Paul Hogan in Crocodile Dundee and returns as Australia celebrates 40 years of one of Australia's most iconic films.
Capturing the adventurous spirit and rugged charm of Australia, The Croc is designed for those who want presence and character in their style. For those who embrace determination, charisma and a genuine connection to Australian heritage, it is more than a hat - it's a symbol of iconic style, delivering lasting comfort and durability while staying true to its legendary inspiration.
As Worn By Trent "Maxi" Maxwell, The Croc feels right at home. Like Maxi himself, it represents resilience, confidence and an unwavering connection to the Australian landscape. Whether on the coastline, in the bush or wherever adventure leads, The Croc continues to honour the legacy of one of Australia's most recognisable cultural icons while celebrating Akubra's 150-year commitment to Australian craftsmanship.
Carrying The Legacy Forward
WHAT DOES THE NEXT GENERATION NEED TO CARRY FORWARD?
I'd want it to still feel grounded, dependable, and built on trust. That same sense of mateship, staying calm under pressure, and doing the job properly without needing recognition. We're carrying forward those core values of resilience and showing up when it counts. What's changing is how we talk about it—being more open, more aware, and placing a greater focus on prevention, education, and looking after each other, not just physically but mentally.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE THE NEXT GENERATION?
Don't rush to the destination. Enjoy the journey, the process, the highs and the lows. That's where the real growth happens.
ONE WORD TO DESCRIBE AKUBRA?
Grit.
Where Character Endures
Whether he's patrolling Australia's most famous beach or responding to emergencies as a firefighter, Trent "Maxi" Maxwell embodies the quiet resilience that has long defined the Australian character. Like The Croc, his story is built on authenticity, courage and a deep connection to place.
As we celebrate 150 years of handcrafting iconic Australian hats, both Maxi and The Croc remind us that true icons stand the test of time - earning their place through character, purpose and an enduring Australian spirit.
SHOP
MAXI'S STYLE
New
THE CROC TANBARK
Sale price$470.00
THE AKUBRA BRUMBY ACORN FAWN
Sale price$380.00
