Pauly Vandenbergh

Pauly Vandenbergh is a Wirangu and Kokatha man from the far west coast of South Australia. His work is grounded in a single belief: when Aboriginal young people are connected to identity, culture and opportunity, they can transform their future - and ours. 

Following a successful career as a professional athlete, Pauly was the Aboriginal Programs Director at the Port Adelaide Football Club (2010–2020), transforming the club’s Indigenous initiatives into a national industry standard. He later founded, and continues to oversee, the Aboriginal Basketball Academy, and Tjindu Foundation. 

In 2020 he established Wanna Mar Produce - a unique commercial collaboration with the Stehr Group - becoming the first Aboriginal owner of a commercial seafood license and quota in South Australia. Wanna Mar Produce realises a long-held vision to bring the Aboriginal coastal traditions of the Far West Coast to contemporary bluefin tuna production. 

Also in 2020, Pauly founded Munda Wines - a multi-award winning 100% Aboriginal owned national wine company. Making contemporary wines viewed through an ancient lens, Munda Wines works with Traditional Owners, winemakers and grapegrowers across Australia, crafting benchmark expressions of wines in the regions where they shine. Following a standout year of commercial and winemaking success, Munda Wines continues to centre the story, culture and custodianship of Traditional Owners across Australia who have cared for Country since time immemorial.  

Pauly is a respected cultural educator, passionate and impactful advocate for Aboriginal young people, Board member of Brand SA, and an experienced Board Director. He is also an indefatigable kids' basketball coach for his children.