Djarrak / Bells Beach will play host to the 2024 Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles presented by Rip Curl this weekend, bringing together the top Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander surfing talent from around Australia.
In its 11th year, the event boasts surfers from across the country including Western Australia, Queensland, Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia.
“I’m so excited to be heading back down to the Indigenous surf titles this week,” said 2023 Junior Girls champion Ocea Curtis (Lennox Head, NSW).
“I love this comp and honouring my culture and also love hanging with everyone participating. Last year we had pumping waves so I’m hoping for that again this year.”
The event will host divisions including Open Men and Women, Junior Men and Women (U18), Masters (O35), Elders (O50) and Longboard.
2023 Open Champion, Landen Smales (Noosa, QLD), is looking forward to returning to the region for the event.
“Really looking forward to the Aussie Indigenous Titles down at Djarrk” said Smales.
“This is always a highlight in my year. Last year the ancestors sent us really good waves so hopefully we get that again. Can’t wait to catch up & surf with the mob.”
As an added bonus, both the Junior Champions from the event will be granted a wildcard into the Rip Curl GromSearch Phillip Island Presented by Bass Coast Shire later in the year. The event is a 10,000 point event on the Surfing Australia Junior Series with overall series champions gaining a spot in the World Junior Surfing Titles.
“Djarrak is a special place and we are proud to host this event on Wadawurrung country for the 11th year” said Surfing Victoria CEO Adam Robertson.
“The level of talent on show each year is incredible, but more than anything it is a fantastic gathering of first nations surfers catching up and forming life long friendships through surfing.”
The Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles will be held on May 24-26 at Djarrak / Bells Beach on Wadawurrung Country.
Live scores and schedule can be found via australianindigenoussurfingtitles.com
The Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles is presented by Rip Curl and Headsox and supported by the Victorian Government, Surf Coast Events, VicHealth, Surfing Australia, Play it Safe by the Water, Waddawurrung Traditional Owners, Indigi-Print, Jessi Rebel Art, Cancer Council Sunscreen, Feed Me Surf Coast and Surf Better Now.