Adrian’s story begins in the small town of Derby, where he was born underweight and frequently in and out of hospitals due to poor health as an infant. At a young age, his father Paul Lane moved Adrian and his brother to Broome, entrusting them to Alberta Bin Omar (Nan Ubby), a woman who would become a pivotal figure in their lives.

Nan Ubby provided the love, care, and stability that Adrian needed, nurturing him and his brother with unwavering dedication until they reached adulthood. She ensured they had three meals a day, an education, and a clear path to adulthood.

Growing up under Nan Ubby’s care and the support and care of her own children, Adrian was instilled with strong values rooted in respect, kindness, and love, principles further reinforced by the church. These early lessons taught him to treat others with the same respect and kindness he hoped to receive, a mentality he carries with him to this day.

Adrian’s journey into the maritime world was significantly influenced by his family lineage and his deep-rooted desire to follow in his grandfather’s footsteps as a Mariner. His educational journey began at Saint Mary’s Broome and continued at Guildford Grammar in Perth, thanks to a scholarship from Argyle Diamond Mining. This period of his life was marked by a deep-seated determination to achieve his dream, fuelled by the DNA passed down from his grandfather on his mother’s side.

Adrian’s commitment to his dream was unwavering. From a young age, he knew he wanted to be a Mariner, a vision he communicated clearly to his headmaster at Guildford Grammar. His education, particularly in mathematics and English, was geared towards achieving this goal. His time at high school was not just about academics; it was about laying the foundation for a future he was determined to build.

Achieving his Master Five qualification was a dream come true for Adrian. It was the culmination of years of dedication, hard work, and the values instilled in him by his Nan Ubby. This qualification was not just a professional milestone; it was a personal victory, a testament to his perseverance and the support system that nurtured him.

Over the past 20 years, Adrian’s role in the maritime industry has evolved significantly. Starting at 18, he has spent most of his life working on boats, with brief breaks in between. His journey included working on a barge for a gas company for over nine years, a period that was particularly significant as it allowed him to work on his traditional lands and sea. Despite facing significant challenges, including unequal pay, racial discrimination, Adrian remained focused on his dream. His commitment was never about the money, it was about fulfilling his destiny and being a leader for his people.

Adrian’s story is one of resilience and determination. He faced numerous challenges, including time away from his family and dealing with the rigors of maritime training. One of the most testing times was spending four months away from his family to complete the final part of his training. However, his focus on his dream helped him overcome these challenges and achieve his goals.

As a qualified skipper, Adrian’s responsibilities include ensuring the safety and comfort of everyone on board. His extensive experience and knowledge of the ocean and tidal movements are crucial in his role. He takes pride in sharing his experiences and hopes to inspire others to pursue their dreams with the same passion and dedication.

Adrian’s journey was significantly influenced by key figures in his life, including his Uncle Donnie Woolagoodja and Uncle Cossack Tamwoy, who introduced him to the basics of maritime life. Another influential figure was John Eggers, a seasoned seaman who taught Adrian the political and professional aspects of the industry. During this time Adrian turned to Alfred and Maurice Umbagai who supported him to fulfil his obligations to the country. These mentors played a crucial role in shaping Adrian’s career and instilling in him the qualities to become a leader.

To young Aboriginal people aspiring to a maritime career, Adrian offers simple yet profound advice: “If you have a dream, do it!” He emphasises the importance of discipline, dedication, and commitment. Life, according to Adrian, presents numerous opportunities, and it’s essential to stay true to one’s dreams and not be deterred by roadblocks.

Looking ahead, Adrian’s goals include continuing his maritime career and taking on a leadership role for his people. He is passionate about preserving the culture of his people and protecting his Native Title land. Adrian’s vision for the future is to be a beacon of hope for young men and women, inspiring them to follow their dreams and become leaders in their own right.

Outside of work, Adrian’s passion is living a quiet life and spending time with his family. He hopes to mentor his children and grandchildren to become good people and perhaps follow in his footsteps or carve their own paths.

Adrian’s story is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and the support of a strong community. His achievements are not just personal victories but a source of inspiration for others in his community. His message is clear: “stay true to your dreams, treat others with respect and love, and the rewards will follow”.