Queensland’s Award-Winning Sun-Safe Swimwear Brand
For families who love the Queensland sun but want to stay protected while enjoying it, Tribe Tropical offers the perfect balance of fashion and function. Founded by Queensland mother-of-three Emily Gradon, the award-winning swimwear label has become one of Australia’s most trusted names in sun-protective swimwear.
From Personal Story to Purpose
Emily’s inspiration for Tribe Tropical came from her own experience growing up as a fair-skinned red-head in PNG & Cairns — and from the loss of her grandfather to melanoma. Wanting to make a difference, she set out to create stylish swimwear that helps families enjoy the outdoors safely. Based in Bargara, near Bundaberg, Tribe Tropical celebrates the vibrancy of coastal Queensland while carrying an important message about sun safety and skin-cancer prevention.
Designed for Protection and Style
Each Tribe Tropical piece is UPF50+ rated, blocking out 98% of harmful UVA and UVB rays. The swimwear is fully-lined and crafted from a premium chlorine-resistant polyester blend, ensuring comfort, durability, and fade resistance.
The brand is known for its exclusive, hand-drawn prints inspired by iconic Australian destinations — from the Great Barrier Reef to the Daintree — and is one of the few Australian labels offering coordinated, sun-safe styles for the entire family, including men, women, teens, boys, girls, and babies. Many of the brand’s exclusive prints are hand-drawn by Brisbane artists Stacey Bigg and Anna Markula.
This summer, Tribe Tropical has launched its new fluro water-safe collection for kids, combining bold, high-visibility colours with the same premium UPF50+ protection the brand is renowned for. The collection is designed with water safety in mind, making it easier to spot children in the surf or pool — perfect for Queensland families who live in and around the water.
National Recognition and Growing Global Appeal
Tribe Tropical’s thoughtful design and social purpose have earned it national acclaim, including a Good Design Award recognising excellence in children’s sun-safe swimwear. The brand has also been featured in Vanity Fair magazine, highlighting its growing global recognition as a leader in stylish, protective swimwear.
Queensland Spirit, Global Standards
Tribe Tropical embodies the relaxed yet responsible spirit of Queensland — combining laid-back tropical aesthetics with world-class design and safety standards. For Brisbane families seeking swimwear that looks good, feels good, and protects the people they love most, this homegrown brand delivers in every way.
To explore the latest collections or learn more about sun safety, visit tribetropical.com.
Tribe Tropical
Bargara QLD
Tribetropical.com
