The Gold Coast community is grieving the sudden death of Jackson ‘Jacko’ Graham, a much-loved local footballer and surfer who touched lives from Palm Beach to Japan and Italy.
Graham, 22, died on Wednesday, leaving behind devastated family, friends, teammates, and fellow surfers across the world.
A child prodigy in the waves, Graham became Palm Beach Boardriders’ open club champion at just 14.
He also made his mark on the national stage, winning Queensland’s 2019 Under-19 boys Mark Richards Shield with Joshua Boyle while at Palm Beach Currumbin SHS.
The year prior, he was part of the team that claimed the state under-16 crown.
In 2020, Graham joined the World Surf League’s junior tour, quickly becoming a fan favourite for his fearless style and infectious personality.
The Queensland AFL has paid tribute to 22-year-old Palm Beach Currumbin star Jackson ‘Jacko’ Graham, who died suddenly last week
Graham was not only a promising footballer, but a junior surfing champion
Tributes have flowed in from pro surfers including Callum Robson, Liam O’Brien, Micah Margieson, Thomas Carvalho, Tim Bain and Japanese stars Toy Tanaka and Sein Fujimoto.
Graham’s final Instagram post showed him shooting through the middle of a perfect barrel in swells triggered by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, a fitting snapshot of his love for the ocean.
Away from the surf, Graham was a talented QAFL player for Palm Beach Currumbin Australian Football Club.
He played 174 games for the side, including 19 last season where he kicked five goals.
Starting in juniors in 2011, he progressed through to seniors, earning the admiration of teammates and supporters alike.
Palm Beach Currumbin AFC posted, ‘Never Forgotten. Loved By All #21,’ alongside a heart and dove emoji.
Other QAFL clubs, including Burleigh Bombers, Maroochydore, Pacific Pines, and Labrador, expressed their condolences to Graham’s family and friends.
One local wrote, ‘This is devastating news… Our thoughts and love are with the Graham family and the football & surfing community.’
Another said, ‘So very sad. RIP young man. Condolences to the Graham family and friends. Will be forever missed by all. #21.’
Gold Coast surf and fishing lifestyle brand The Mad Hueys also paid tribute, writing: ‘Rest easy Jacko. You’ll always be in the hearts of The Mad Hueys.’
Friends described Graham as a young man who combined competitive grit with a playful sense of humour.
His family said he ‘lived more in 22 years than some do in a lifetime’, filling his days with joy, friendship and adventure.
International friends have shared photos and stories of his generosity, kindness, and ability to make strangers feel like lifelong mates.
Gold Coast surfboard makers Mt Woodgee Surfboards called it ‘such a sad day’ and said he would be ‘very much missed’.
Graham’s sporting journey and zest for life inspired many young athletes in both the surf and football arenas.
He was remembered not just for his skill, but for his ability to lift the spirits of those around him.
To honour his life, a traditional paddle-out will be held at Palm Beach.
The tribute is expected to draw a large crowd of both local and international friends.
Queensland Police Service confirmed there was nothing suspicious about Graham’s sudden death and no ongoing investigations are being conducted.
