Bells Beach / Djarrk, Wadawurrung Country (Thursday, 26 May 2022): The top Fist Nations surfers have gathered today to officially launch the Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles held at Bells Beach / Djarrk on Wadawurrung Country.
The event was opened with a Welcome to Country from Traditional Land Owner Corrina Eccles and a mixing of waters from all the different regions represented in the event.
“It’s always special to host this event on Wadawurrung Country” said Surfing Victoria CEO Adam Robertson.
“The level of talent amongst competitors is incredible, but more than anything this event is about connecting first nations surfers from across the country after a really challenging few years.”
Past champions featured at the event include Otis Carey (Coffs Harbour, NSW), Jaz McCorquodale (Bateau Bay, NSW) Russel Molony (Shelly Beach, NSW), Summer Simon (Gold Coast, QLD) along with former masters champion Robbie Page (Kempsey, NSW).
“As always, I’m super excited (and a little nervous) about returning to the pumping waves of Bells Beach to defend the current Women’s Indigenous Title” said Jaz McCorquodale.
“I’m looking forward to challenge of competing in the raw conditions that Bells has to offer and being able to surf such an iconic wave that has brought so many mobs together to celebrate and rekindle our passions towards Indigenous culture and surfing. The competition aside, i’m excited to reconnect with the wider Indigenous community that have become like family over the years”
The Open Mens and Womens champion from the event will be granted a wildcard into the Australian Surf Championships in Port Macquarie late this year.
“I’m really excited to be finally back at Bells to have and surf with everyone” said former champ Otis Carey.
“Its the one surf trip I do every year that I get super excited about. I cant wait to surf with everyone.”
Official forecaster, Surfline are forecasting a slow few days of waves with clean conditions. Initial forecasts is for mid-period, small to mid size waves along the Surf Coast on Saturday and Sunday. For further details head to www.surfline.com
Friday 27th May – SCHEDULE
7:45am check-in for a 8:00am start
Longboard Mens R1 H1-3
Open Womens R1 H1-2
Stand By
Masters Mens R1 H1-4
Junior Boys Semi 1 & 2
Live scores, video and photos for the event can be found at www.australianindigenoussurfingtitles.com
Event Dates:
May 31st – June 2nd , 2019
Bells Beach
The Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles is presented by Rip Curl and supported by the Victorian Government, HeadSox, the Surf Coast Shire, Surfline Australia, VicHealth, Play it Safe by the Water, Wathaurong Cooperative, Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre, Atmosphere Events, Surfing Australia, ONABAC, VACSAL, Strong Brother Strong Sister and Surfing Victoria.