Max currently works in the training sector at REDI.E, which is an Aboriginal owned, not-for-profit organisation that offers training and employment opportunities for Indigenous people across western NSW. 

He was originally brought in to the corporation after working at its cafe, which he managed.

“We would employ and train Aboriginal job seekers,” he said.

Max said it gave job seekers the confidence to be able to move into the workforce.

“It’s really quite a wonderful and unique company to work for,” he said of REDI.E.

Max’s royal ties go back to 2017 when he was the recipient of the Australian Youth Trust Tom Harvey Award for Citizenship, which was presented at a Commonwealth Day luncheon at Parliament House.

The Australia Youth Trust was established by the Commonwealth Day Council of NSW and launched in 1995 by the late Diana, Princess of Wales, Prince Harry’s mother.

The Trust’s focus is on young people in Australia and developing Commonwealth nations.

“When I found out the Duke and Duchess of Sussex were coming to Dubbo I contacted the people at the Commonwealth Society and we put together a proposal which ended up being forwarded to Kensington Palace, which was then forwarded to the Mayor’s office,” he said.

“The Mayor chose myself and the other people to be a part of the greeting line. That was really special.”

Max said the application process was long and it took a few weeks until he actually found out that he was going to be a part of the royal greeting line.

“I was so honoured. It was such an amazing experience,” he said.

“I’ve had a lot of achievements throughout my employment here (at REDI.E) and this is definitely one of the highlights.”

Max said it it was really special to be recognised for his work.

“A lot of Harry’s charities work with mental health and Lady Diana was very prominent within Indigenous communities within the Commonwealth as well so it was really special to highlight the work I’ve been doing within Indigenous communities…,” he said.

Max said Harry’s speech at Picnic in the Park was inspiring to hear.

“For him to be able to speak about his own demons with mental illness – which is not something we generally hear from the royal family –  it really shines a light on the new age of the monarchy,” he said.

Max not only greeted the royals, but was also able to have a chat with Harry and Meghan with the group.

“Having that audience with them was really special,” he said.

“When they got out of the motorcade, I was just standing there and got this rush of adrenaline.”