Zero79 Foundation at the 2025 Na Koa Wounded Warrior & Gold Star Regatta

Cronulla RSL were proud to support the Zero79 Foundation, and the participants of the The 2025 Na Koa Wounded Warrior and Gold Star Family Regatta in Waikiki, Hawaii.

Hosted by the Association of the United States Army (AUSA), the event brings together numerous U.S. veteran charity organisations, combat veterans, wounded warriors, and families of the fallen.

The annual regatta, held during the Duke’s Ocean Festival, honours the sacrifices of combat veterans and families of the fallen, known as Gold Star families, while fostering healing, camaraderie, and connection through the ‘healing power’ of Hawaiian waters. Participants race in traditional outrigger canoes, a sport with deep cultural significance in Hawaii. The one-day race is conducted on Outrigger Canoes, the national team sport, and has deep cultural significance for the people of Hawaii.

Zero79 Foundation, the only Australian organisation dedicated exclusively to supporting current and former 1st and 2nd Commando Regiment operators and their families, has been involved with Na Koa since 2017. Through its Konnect program, the Foundation provides social and cohesion events to strengthen community bonds and support those in need. Each year, teams of veterans and Gold Star families, often in partnership with Purple Warriors Australia, travel to Hawaii to compete and connect.

This year, the Australian teams achieved remarkable results:

  • The Aussie Combat Veterans team placed 2nd in their division.

  • The Gold Star Families team finished 8th, shaving 4 seconds off their final heat.

The 2025 Na Koa Regatta was not just a race, but a healing experience. The participants came together as a small group who have carried the weight of service and sacrifice. Through training, teamwork, and sharing stories, they found renewed purpose, strength, and connection. The Hawaiian concept of mana — spirit, strength, life force — was deeply felt throughout the week.

Cronulla RSL proudly supported the trip, helping make this transformative experience possible for Australian veterans and Gold Star families. The team were also supported by Nxt Wear & Cronulla Outrigger Club.

For more information about the Zero79 Foundation or to support their programs, please visit https://www.zero79foundation.com.

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