surfingvic.com
2017
G R O U N D S W E LL
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Contents Chairmans Report
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Ceo’s Report
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Australian Title Holders
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Victorian’s on the International Stage
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Rip Curl Pro
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Rip Curl Pro Trials
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All Abilities Day
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Phillip Island Pro QS1000
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Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles
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Indigenous Surfing Report
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Victorian Open Series
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Victorian Junior Series
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HIF VIctorian Masters Titles
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Kneeboard Surfing Victoria State Titles
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HIF Victorian Longboard Titles
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HIF Clip of the Season
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HIF SUP Titles
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Victorian Teams Titles
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Victorian Bodyboard Titles
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Subway Pro Junior
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Rip Curl Gromsearch
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Woolworths Surfer Grom Comp
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Surfing Victoria Awards 18th Life Membership to Max Wells OAM
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Nudie Australian Boardriders Battle
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Surfers Rescue 24/7 Program launched in Victoria
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Become a Surfing Victoria Member
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2018 Event Schedule
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MAJOR & SUPPORTING PARTNERS:
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Chairmans Report IT IS AN HONOUR TO REPORT TO THE MEMBERS AND STAKEHOLDERS OF SURFING VICTORIA. SINCE ITS FORMAL INCORPORATION IN 1993, SURFING VICTORIA HAS DEVELOPED AND EVOLVED INTO THE AMAZING ORGANISATION IT IS TODAY. Surfing Victoria continues to hold itself accountable to our values of passion, health, integrity and inclusiveness. This year represents another dedicated and focused year on achieving our mission to promote, represent and develop the sport of surfing for members and participants at all levels through competitions, programs, major events, affiliated surf schools and board riders clubs. Achieving our vision and mission can only happen through the extremely hard work, passion and dedication of the Surfing Victoria team. On behalf of the Board and members, I would like to thank our CEO, Adam Robertson and the team for the amazing effort during the year. It was a privilege to welcome Max Wells, OAM as a life member of Surfing Victoria this year. Max has left a lasting legacy to our sport and organisation. During the year, a number of exciting programs have been announced, including the Surfer’s Rescue 24/7. The free program teaches surfers basic board rescues and CPR skills that will help keep Victorian beaches safe. We continue to focus on our value of inclusiveness through the various programs including Coasting: SUP for Women, Surfing for Girls and Indigenous programs.
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Our high performance programs continue to evolve with great success. A big congratulations to Nikki van Djik on winning her first WSL Championship Tour event. The Victorian Junior team struck gold at the Australian Junior titles with three (3) Australian Titles along with another three (3) Australian Titles in Logger, Bodyboard and SUP. Phillip Island Board riders club claimed the Victorian Round of the Australian Boardrider’s battle and will represent the state at the National Final. A big congratulation’s goes to all of our Victorian State Champions in all disciplines throughout the year. A special congratulation’s goes to Paul O’Neil who claimed a World Title at the World Kneeboard Titles held in Spain. The efforts of the Surfing Victoria staff (and our contractors) resulted in the continued success of the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach. This year we also welcomed the inaugural WSL Phillip Island Pro. It was great to see Surfing Victoria take the leadership initiative and appoint two high level medical advisors to assist all Victorian surfers with injury prevention and management. On behalf of the Board and Management, I would like to thank the all staff, contractors, sponsors, the State Government and members for their continued support.
CEO Report IT WAS ANOTHER FANTASTIC 12 MONTHS FOR SURFING VICTORIA, WITH THE SUCCESSFUL RUNNING OF THE 56TH RIP CURL PRO AT BELLS BEACH ALONGSIDE CONTINUED IMPROVEMENTS IN OUR EVENTS AND PROGRAMS AROUND THE STATE. Jordy Smith claimed his first Bell and joins an elite group of surfers to win the prestigious event. American Courtney Conlogue claimed back-to-back Rip Curl Pro wins. Phillip Island surfer Glyndyn Ringrose was awarded the Victorian Wildcard after narrowly beating Cody Robinson. Glyndyn, a former WCT surfer himself showed that age was no barrier in a field of much younger competitors. Nikki van Dijk has again cemented her spot on the WSL Women’s CT. Nikki had her first World Tour victory in Portugal and was the first Victorian woman to ever win a WSL World Tour event. India Robinson and Xavier Huxtable both competed for Australia in the ISA World Junior titles held in Japan. India finished with a 5th place in the U18 Girls and Xavier a 9th place in the U16 Boys. A big congratulation’s goes to Paul O’Neill on winning the O/50’s Kneeboard World Title, along with placing 3rd in the Open division. Our Victorian State Teams again did us proud and performed well in all disciplines. Congratulations to Ben Considine (Open Logger) and Justin Kirk-Patrick (O35 Bodyboard) who all claimed Australian Titles in their respective divisions. Congratulations to Ellie Harrison taking out the Under 14 Girls Australian Title. Codie Jeffrey and Sage Goldsbury will also be representing Australia in the ISA World Surfing Games after their
stellar performance at the Australian Junior Titles. Codie finishing 4th in the Under 16 boys and Sage finishing 2nd in the Under 16 girls division. The Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles has gone from strength to strength in the past few years with the largest gathering of the Australian Indigenous community at Bells Beach. Otis Carey took out the Open Men’s division, Finn Hill won the Junior Men’s and Summer Simon won both the Junior Girls & Open Women’s divisions. Tom Avery took out the Open Lonbgboard division and Robbie Page the O35 Men’s. The first Phillip Island Pro (QS1000) event was held in pumping waves late October. Jacob Willcox (WA) won the men’s division while Piper Harrison (QLD) took out the women’s. Having the opportunity to host a second WSL event in our state provides huge opportunities for the surfers of the future. Coasting: Stand Up Paddleboarding for Women will continue into its third year with the assistance of VicHealth. This program has seen some incredible outcomes across the whole state for females and has allowed us to bring on a new staff member to manage the program.
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Australian Title Holders 2017
Gwen Carbone (Over 40 Women SUP Surfing)
Ben Considine (Open Men Logger)
Ellie Harrison (Under 14 Girls)
Xavier Huxtable (Under 16 All Stars)
Codie Jeffery (Under 16 All Stars)
Justin Kirk-Patrick (Over 35 Bodyboard)
Daisy Corbett & Sophie Fletcher (Under 19 All Stars) Photos: Ethan Smith / SNSW
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Victorians on the International Stage
Nikki van Dijk - WSL Women’s Championship Tour 1st Cascais Womens Pro Photo: Mansurel 7th in the World on CT Rankings
Photo: Poullenot
Photo: Cestari
India Robinson – 6th Place for Australia in the VISSLA ISA World Junior Titles in Japan
Photo: Evans / ISA
Photo: Evans / ISA
Xavier Huxtable – 1 1th Place for Australia in the VISSLA ISA World Junior Titles in Japan
Paul O’Neil – 1st Place Veterans Division at the Kneeboard World Titles in Spain
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Photo: Kelly Cestari/WSL
Photo: Ed Sloane/WSL
Photo: Kelly Cestari/WSL
Photo: Ed Sloane/WSL
Photo: Liam Robertson
Photo: Jack Barrip/WSL
Rip Curl Pro The 56th running of the Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach saw Jordy Smith claim his first Bell and joins an elite group of surfers to win the prestigious event. American Courtney Conlogue claimed back-to-back Rip Curl Pro wins and also cemented herself and one of the best ever at Bells Beach.
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“I can’t even believe it -- second last year and now this -- it’s amazing,” Smith said. “I was stoked to have made it into Round 4 and then every heat after that was a bonus. I tried to take it easy and not take things too seriously, as you may have been able to tell from some of my claims in the Final. This is an absolute dream come true. I’ve been working on winning this event for 10 years now and to get it today is incredible.” “Winning it last year felt so good, but to back it up is amazing,” said Conlogue. “I’m so speechless. The first two events of the Australian leg did not go that well for me, so I’m stoked to finish it off with a win. I have always loved coming to Bells. It’s an amazing arena with all of the fans down here. It’s a really tricky wave to master, so to have two wins here is really special.”
Rip Curl Pro Trials Bells Beach Former World Tour Competitor Glyndyn Ringrose surfed in his first World Tour event since 2000 at the 2017 Rip Curl Pro after winning the Visit Victoria Trials at Bells Beach. Receiving a spot in the trials after two surfers had to withdraw due to injury, Ringrose surfed his way throughout the early round of the trials to make it to the final day. Ringrose took down in form surfer Cody Robinson in a wave starved final locking in a heat total of 10.73 points (out of a possible 20). Robinson finished with a heat total of 6.34 points. “I’ve been close so many times to win the trials,” said Ringrose. “This
last two days I’ve just been thinking heat after heat and I’m just blessed to get into the main event.” “I am getting close to 44 years old now and there is not a lot of time left in my surfing career. I still have the competitive drive and mental desire but for me it is about willing my body to do the things you want it to do.” Claiming the second wildcard was Samuel Pupo (BRA). Brother of current World Tour surfer Miguel Pupo, he faced off against Jacob Wilcox (Margaret River, WA) in the Rip Curl Trials. Ella Williams (NZL) claimed the lone wildcard spot in the Women’s Draw after progressing through the Rip Curl Trials.
All Abilities Day Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach
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Phillip Island Pro QS1000 THE INAUGURAL PHILLIP ISLAND PRO QS1000 WAS LAUNCHED IN OCTOBER 2017 AS PART OF A LONG TERM STRATEGY FROM THE BASS COAST SHIRE TO BRING SURFING EVENTS TO THE REGION.
Western Australian surfer Jacob Wilcox (Margaret River) and Queensland surfer Piper Harrison (Coolangatta) were crowned champions at the event after 4 days of pumping waves. The event was held at Cape Woolamai for the opening two days, before shifting to the Penguin Parade with a large increase in swell. “It’s good to get another QS win” said Wilcox. “I have had a pretty rough year with results so it was nice to make the final and win.” “I spent a month at home after the Europe leg and worked on a few things. It was nice to see it pay off in a competition.” “Phillip Island definitely reminds me of home. It’s really raw with lots of power in the ocean.” “This is my first ever Qualifying Series win so I’m pretty overwhelmed right now” said an ecstatic Harrison.
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“When I woke up this morning I didn’t really expect to win but I am obviously stoked.” “I love coming to Phillip Island, you are never bored here. There is always waves and heaps of fun stuff to do when you aren’t surfing.” The event also held a Junior Challenge and Indigenous Invitational event to allow local surfers the chance to earn a spot in the draw. Codie Jeffery (Newhaven) and India Robinson (Jan Juc) claimed the Phillip Island Junior Challenge, whilst Jordie Campbell (Torquay) claimed the Indigenous Invitational event. The Phillip Island Pro QS1000 is presented by the Bass Coast Shire and Victorian Government and supported by Westernport Water, Phillip Island Nature Park, Surfing Victoria, Surf Meal Co., Ramada Resort Phillip Island and Coastalwatch.
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Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles Bells Beach
Otis Carey (Coffs Harbour, NSW) has claimed his second Open Men Australian Indigenous Surfing Title at Bells Beach on the traditional land of the Wada Wurrung people. Winning his last title in 2014, Carey showed his strength in the right hand waves putting together multiple carves and turns in the final to best 14 Year-Old Finn Hill (Avoca, NSW). Carey took the event with a heat total of 16.23 points (out of a possible 20) over Hill’s 15.43 points. “Its cool to win the event again, but for me the biggest thing is just being here at the event and having that sense of belonging to the community.” “It has been two years since I won my last one, and that is a true testament to how strong the field at this event is every year.” Surfing in the Open Women, 15 year old Summer Simon (Port Kembla, NSW) claimed her third title in a row showing class beyond her years. Simon locked in a heat total of 18.50 points to finish ahead of Jasmine McCorquodale (Bateau Bay, NSW) on 13.04 points. “I am just overwhelmed with the win” said an elated Simon.
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“To get my highest ever heat total here in some great waves at Bells Beach is incredible.” The longboard division was taken out by Tom Avery (Lismore, NSW) with Robbie Page (Kempsey, NSW) in second place. Placing in third was Rhys Collins (Red Hill, VIC) with Jarrod Black (Torquay, VIC) in fourth. The former Pipe Master Robbie Page also took out the Masters Men division. Rhys Collins placed in second with Scott Winch (Woollongong, NSW) and Mark Simon (Port Kembla, NSW) in third and fourth. The inaugural Junior Boys and Girls divisions presented by Corangamite CMA were run in 2017 for the first time. Finn Hill took the Junior Boys final ahead of Taj Simon (Port Kembla, NSW). Placing in third and fourth was Rohnin Hanry-Micale (Bellambi, NSW) and Zach Molony (Killarney Vale, NSW) Summer Simon also took out the Junior Girls Division ahead of Jasmine McCorquodale and Jarrah Clarke. Bohdi Simon (Port Kembla, NSW) and Amber Harrison placed in fourth and fifth.
Indigenous Surfing Report The Surfing Victoria Indigenous Surfing Program is in 2018 heading into its 20th year. The Woorangalook Victorian Koori Surfing Titles saw over 75 participants plus many spectators and supporters from across the state descend on Urquharts Bluff. A true community gathering with participants hailing from communities including East Gippsland, Portland and the South West, Koroit, Bendigo, Ballarat, Shepparton,Metropolitan Melbourne, Bass Coast, Mornington Peninsula and a strong contingent from the local Geelong and Surf Coast. Jordie Campbell of Sandy Point for the 9th Consecutive year was crowned the Open Men’s champion and went on to represent the Indigenous Community at the 2017 Rip Curl Pro Trials.
The Victorian Titles was again supported by East Gippsland Regional event the Cape Conran Koori Surf Comp. The even continues to grow with 62 participants from all over Gippsland attending. It was great to see the growth in the South West Regional event at Cape Bridgewater with 56 participants from all over South West of Victoria attending. We continued the Inland Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUPing) program following the success of previous years with locations including Shepparton, Swan Hill, Bendigo, Echuca and Lilydale. This program, held on inland waterways enables us to reach a whole new audience in regional Victorian towns based on lakes and rivers. In 2017, over 700 Indigenous Participant’s have taken part in programs, camps and competitions run across the state coordinated by Anthony Hume and Jordie Campbell, Surfing Victorias Indigenous Aquatics Officers.
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2017 Results Men’s
Women’s
1. Todd Rosewall (Jan Juc) 2. Caiden Fowler (M.P.)
1. Bella Wilson (Jan Juc) 2. Sophie Fletcher (Phillip Island)
Victorian Open Series Presented by HIF Surf Coast surfers Todd Rosewall and Bella Wilson have been crowned Victorian Open Champions at the final round of the Victorian Open Series presented by HIF Australia held at Jan Juc. With Cahill Bell-Warren (Bells Beach, VIC) and Harry Mann (Torquay, VIC) exiting the draw in the Quarter Finals, the path was cleared for Rosewall to take the title if he made the final of the round. Rosewall not only made the final but finished runner up to score enough ratings points to claim the title. “I’m super happy to win the state title this year, the standard was incredibly high and to come away with a win is epic” said an elated Rosewall. “I have won a few junior state titles before but have been chasing an open title for a while now so its super rewarding to finally get it.”
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“Thanks to the Perfect Wave for putting up the Maldives Trip, I’m looking forward to taking my dad with me and getting some sick waves.” In the Women’s division, it was Bella Wilson (Jan Juc, VIC) who went on to win her second straight Victorian Open Title. Wilson had a strong position in the ratings coming into the final event and required Phillip Island surfers Daisy Corbett and Sophie Fletcher to exit the draw early in the day. Luckily for Wilson, both surfers were eliminated in Round One allowing Wilson a clear path to the title. “I’m so happy to win the state title for the second year!” “The surf trip to the Maldives should be so much fun, I can’t wait to go.”
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2017 Victorian Junior Champions Under 18 Boys Taj Sleeman (Cape Paterson) Under 18 Girls Sophie Fletcher (Cape Woolamai) Under 16 Boys
Under 16 Girls Bella Wilson (Jan Juc) Under 14 Boys Ethan Huxtable (Jan Juc) Under 14 Girls Poppy Corbett (Cape Woolamai)
Xavier Huxtable (Jan Juc)
Victorian Junior Series Presented by HIF
Six Victorian Junior Surfing Titles have been decided at the Victorian Junior Series Presented by HIF. The three event Victorian Junior Series presented by HIF Australia is used to determine state titles across six divisions. The Under 14 Girls Division went down to the wire, with multiple surfers in the running in the final event. In the end it was Poppy Corbett who took the title of Under 14 Girls State Champion. “I was actually quite ill this morning, which turned out a good thing for me” said an elated Corbett. “It took my mind off the outcome, I just did what I had to do to catch waves and surf them my best”. The Under 18 Boys division was dominated by Cape Paterson’s Taj Sleeman. Sleeman’s tenacity throughout the whole year, earnt him the state title after claiming every round of the series. “I’d never won a Junior Series event before this year, I’m super proud to have won all three and I can’t wait to represent Victoria at the Aussie Titles later in this year”.
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The Under 18 Girls division saw Sophie Fletcher (Cape Woolamai) take home the state title after claiming the opening two events of the series. Xavier Huxtable (Jan Juc) claimed the Under 16 Boys state title, with wins at both Phillip Island and the Mornington Peninsula earlier in the year. Bella Wilson (Jan Juc) completed a clean sweep of the Victorian Junior Series events, winning the Under 16 Girls division at all three stops. Ethan Huxtable continued the winning ways like his brother Xavier, by clean sweeping the Victorian Junior Series in the Under 14 Boys. The Victorian Junior Series is presented by HIF Australia and supported by Coastalwatch, City to Surf Mobile Café and Surfing Victoria.
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HIF Victorian Masters Titles Seven champions were crowned on Phillip Island for the HIF Victorian Masters Titles. The event, that brings together the top Over 35 surfers in the
The Over 35 Women’s division saw Phillip Island’s Michelle Fincher take top honours in the wave starved final finishing with a heat total of 5.60 points.
state, saw windy 2-3ft conditions at Cape Woolamai testing competitor’s wave selection and knowledge.
Placing in second was Angie Reiter (Torquay) on 5.27 points with Kim Byrne (Aireys Inlet) in third on 3.16 points.
After multiple runner-up finishes, Tim Birnie (Jan Juc) was unstoppable on his way to the Over 35 Men’s title. Locking in his two top scoring rides on his first two waves, Birnie amassed a heat total of 13.67 points (out of a possible 20) to take the title.
One of the most anticipated finals of the day was the Over 50 Men’s division which featured past Australian and Victorian Champions.
“It was good to finally get a win. I have had a lot of 2nd places over the years” said Birnie. “Its always such a good weekend away competing against everyone. The conditions weren’t great but it was still nice to win.” Placing in second was local surfer Eli Curry (Phillip Island) who finished with a heat total of 10.60 points. Adrian Maier (Phillip Island) finished in third on 10.23 points with Mark Walker (Seaford) in fourth on 9.43 points.
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Coming out on top was Multiple Australian Champion Greg Brown (Jan Juc) who finished on a heat total of 11.07 points. Placing in second was Richie Porta (Rye) on a heat total of 6.84 points ahead of Dave Matthews (Jan Juc) on 5.04 points. Andrew Dell (St Andrews Beach) finished in fourth on 4.34 points. Other division champions on the day include Grayme Galbraith (Jan Juc, Over 55 & Over 60), Damien Wilson (Jan Juc, Over 45) and Adrian Maier (Phillip Island, Over 40 Men). The HIF Victorian Masters Titles is presented by HIF Australia and supported by Kieser Australia, Coastalwatch, and RockTape.
Kneeboard Surfing Victoria State Titles 2017 was a year of highs and lows for Victorian Kneelo’s. The untimely passing of one of our great club members, Des Watson, was the low point of the year. The B Grade Club Champion trophy will now be known as the “Des Watson Memorial Award”. and fittingly it was won in 2017 by his brother in law, Tim Ryan. Des Passed away at our club event at Gunnamatta and will be sadly missed by all his friends in the club, and surfers all along the coast. Club Stalwart Kevin Ross capped off a steady climb up the rankings to take out the Victorian State Open Kneeboard Title. Kev has been with the club since its inception and has steadily nipping away at the top surfers. He also had some very good results in the Kneeboard Surf Australia rounds. We also had some great results at the Phillip Island Pro. Dean Bould once again claimed 2nd place in the Phillip Island Open final. One of these years a Victorian will break the stranglehold NSW surfers have on the title. Tony Jewell also had a top event taking out the A Grade title. And also the 2017 Kneeboard Surf Australia A Grade Division.
The high point of the year was the Veterans World Title won by club member Paul O’Neill at the World Titles held in Spain. Our first club member to win a title. Paul also placed 3rd in the Open final. A fantastic week for him. 2018 sees another big year for the club. It is the 10th anniversary, and looks set for an exciting year. Round 1 will be down on the East Coast (Mornington Peninsula. Big news is that Round 2 will be down on the West Coast for the first time at 13th beach. It will be great for all our friends on the west coast to have one of the rounds close to home and we expect a big rollup. Rounds 3 & 4 will cap off the year down on the Island. Between all of this we have the 34th running of the Phillip Island Kneeboard pro. So there is plenty on for all our Kneelo mates. Get your memberships in and see you in 2018 Kneeboard Surfing Victoria President – Jim Brown
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HIF Victorian Longboard Titles Presented by City to Surf Mobile Café
Two new names have been added to the long list of Open State Longboard Champions in 2017 with Ben Considine (Barwon Heads) and Angela King (Torquay) claiming their first ever Open State Title. By placing second in the final round of the series Considine was able to secure the top spot on the rankings and become the 2017 Open Men’s Longboard Champion. “I’m super stoked. This is the first year I have gone in the Open Longboards, I have generally just gone with the loggers divisions, so it’s awesome to take it out. I have been trying to add some versatility to my surfing and its cool to surf against some different competitors.” Angela King (Torquay) needed a strong result at the final round to take down 5-time State Champion Molly Powell (Anglesea) and she came through with the win in the final heat of the day to claim the state title.
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“I still can’t believe it. I used to compete all the time about 10 years ago and stopped after having children. I am just really stoked to be back surfing and competing again.” “Molly is a legend and surfing with her is incredible. It was just really fun to be out there surfing with all the girls in great waves.” Greg Brown was again the stand out surfer throughout the series and took home three state titles in the Over 35 Men, Over 50 Men and Over 40 Men Logger divisions, Michael Pinney (Point Lonsdale) also claimed the Over 40 Men, and Melanie Renton (Ocean Grove) took the Over 35 Women. Other state champions crowned include Tomaso Bellisai (Mornington) in Over 45 Men, John Lane (Torquay) in the Over 55 Men, Brain Thompson (Safety Beach) in the Over 60 Men, Phil Trigger in the Over 65 Men, and Ben Consinde in the Open Men Logger. The HIF Victorian Longboard Titles is presented by City to Surf Mobile Café and supported by Kieser Australia and Rock Tape.
2017 Results Open Men 1. Ben Considine
Over 40 Men 1. Michael Pinney
Open Women 1. Angela King
Over 45 Men 1. Tomaso Bellasai
Open Logger 1. Ben Considine
Over 50 Men 1. Greg Brown
Over 35 Men 1. Greg Brown Over 35 Women 1. Melanie Renton Over 40 Logger 1. Greg Brown
Over 55 Men 1. John Lane Over 60 Men 1. Brian Thompson Over 65 Men 1. Phil Trigger
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Photo: Lewy Finnegan shot by James Strickland
HIF Clip of the Season The HIF Clip of the Season was run and won across winter showcasing some of the best rides throughout Australia in the 5th edition of the competition. West Aus local Lewy Finnegan was crowned the winner of the HIF Clip of the season National Finals for the second time in a row. Finnegan claimed top spot alongside James Strickland, who filmed Lewy at the The Right in June. Shane Holmes and Nick Colclough took out second place, representing New South Wales. In the Victorian regional qualifiers, it was Harry Mann and Trent Latta who claimed victory with a wave shot at Winki Pop on the Surf Coast. The other Victorian who qualified for the final in second place was Sam Logan who submitted a self-shot wave from the South West of Victoria.
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HIF SUP Titles The HIF Victorian SUP Titles presented by Rock Tape crowned all SUP Victorian Champions under perfect weather and surf after relocating to 13th Beach. The Open Men Surf divisions showed some incredible talent coming out of Victoria with .34 of a point separating first and second with Matt Takle (Jan Juc) claiming top honours. “The waves were tricky in the morning with the low tide, but it turned on in the finals and that left hand bank started working. Kenta was ripping the whole day, so I am pretty happy to take the win over him.” The Open Women final saw former Australian Open Women’s SUP Champion Emma Webb return to competition after an 18-month break. “There was some fantastic conditions at 13th Beach, and I’m stoked to win another State Title. I haven’t competed in a state competition for a few years so it was good to be back” Other divisional winners on the day included a massive effort from Chris Clarke (Pt Leo) who claimed the Over 40 Men Surf, the 10ft SUP Longboard Expression Session, and the Over 40 Men Technical Race.
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Gwen Carbone (Ocean Grove) claimed the Over 40 Women division, whilst John Lane (Torquay) took out the Over 50 Men division. In the technical race is was Chris Clarke who took line honours and the Over 40 Division. Other divisional winners included Cheyne Mitchell (Open Men, St Kilda), Lucy Bell (Open Women, Sandringham), Jean Ringrose (Over 40 Women, Hampton East), Warwick Lee (Over 50 Open, Highett), Steve Walker (14ft Class). The 18km Ocean Marathon was run from Ocean Grove to Torquay. First across the line was perennial winner Heath Meldrum (Frankson) who finished in a time of 1hr 50mins 43sec. State Title winners included Anna Robertson (Open Women, Black Rock), Chris Clarke (Over 40 Men), Jean Ringrose (Over 40 Women), Dave Sprague (Over 50 Open, Geelong) and Wes Greene (Jan Juc, Prone). The HIF Victorian SUP Titles is presented by Rock Tape and Supported by Core Boardsports, Kieser Australia, City to Surf Mobile Café, Nalu Surf and Sup Vic.
2017 Results Open Men Surf 1st Matt Takle 2nd Kenta Fergusson Open Women Surf 1st Emma Webb 2nd Meleah Zanos Over 40 Men Surf 1st Chris Clarke 2nd John Takle Over 40 Women Surf 1st Gwen Carbone 2nd Kathy Naoumidis Over 50 Men Surf 1st John Lane 2nd John Takle
10ft SUP Longboard 1st Chris Clarke 2nd Michael Smith Open Men Technical 1st Cheyne Mitchell 2nd Dany LeClerc
Over 40 Women Technical 1st Jean Ringrose Over 50 Men Technical 1st Warwick Lee 2nd Damien Quinlan
Open Women Technical 1st Lucy Bell
Open Men Marathon 1st Heath Meldrum 2nd Glenn Morgan
Over 40 Men Technical 1st Chris Clarke 2nd Dave White
Open Women Marathon 1st Angela Jackson 2nd Anna Robertson
Over 40 Men Technical (14’) 1st Steve Walker
Over 40 Men Marathon 1st Steve Walker 2nd Craig Clarke
Over 50 Men Technical (14’) 1st Dave Sprague
Over 40 Women Marathon 1st Jean Ringrose 2nd Tiga Gilbert
Over 50 Men Marathon 1st Dave Sprague 2nd Warwick Lee Prone Open Men 1st Wes Greene 2nd Jock Evans Community Paddle 1st Joseph Gutierrez 2nd Vanessa Mollard Kieser SUP Surfer of the Weekend Kenta Fergusson Gwen Carbone Kieser SUP Paddler of the Weekend Glenn Morgan Racheal Blake
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Victorian Teams Titles Continuing their incredible run of wins, Torquay Boardriders Club have claimed their 8th consecutive Victorian Teams Titles at Jan Juc showing their immense depth of talented surfers.
Torquay was pushed to the limit in the final with traditional rival Phillip Island coming within .89 of a point of besting the Surf Coast powerhouse.
Club President Cahill Bell-Warren was impressed with the performance of all surfers in the team.
Placing in third was 13th Beach with Jan Juc in fourth.
“We are really proud of both our junior and senior teams today. We were pushed right to the end by the other finalists and I’m proud of the way our surfers played their roles and held their nerves.”
Winning the Junior Teams division was Torquay Boardriders Club who claimed the event for the second year in a row. 13th Beach placed in second ahead of Phillip Island. Point Lonsdale Boardriders finished in fourth with South Coast in fifth.
“We are super stoked to get our 8th straight win and are looking forward to the next event.”
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2017 GROUNDSWELL/
2017 Results
Over 45 Mens
Open
1. Steve Watson
1. Tawa Hura 2. Guy Drerup 3. Troy Rose 4. Michael Habgood
Drop Knee 1. Josh Carson 2. Justin Kirkpatrick 3. Michael Castaldini 4. David Bagot
Cadets 1. Brodie Britten Juniors 1. Tawa Hura 2. Ryan Flory Groms 1. Ned Johnston Women
Victorian Bodyboard Titles Held in challenging 4-6ft peaky onshore conditions the 2017 Victorian Bodyboard Titles was wrapped up at Portsea. It’s fair to say that all competitors were exhausted by the end of the day. Despite the challenges there was surprisingly some meaty bowls, spitting barrels and double ups to provide for interesting viewing for most of the day. Unfortunately the finals saw the wind pick up and didn’t allow the competitors to showcase their best, but all in all, a great day had in cold and rainy conditions.
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Over 35 Mens
1. Melissa Fitzwilliam
1. Justin Kirkpatrick
2. Lauren Archibald
2. Steve Hartshorne 3. Guy Drerup
Some standouts were our two new women superstars Lauren and Melissa who were very closely matched in their final. Tawa Hura is proving a real force sniffing out every barrel throughout the day and leaving all before him, with a desire to take out Nationals this year. Born again competitor Justin Kirkpatrick was showing us all how to ride with style and speed and Josh Carson took out his first DK title with some nice floaters. Our young guns Ned and Brodie also impressed in solid waves, spinning and rolling through their final. Special thanks to our amazing sponsors whom without you, we couldn’t hold our events, and also for the generous prizes.
2017 Results Mens Final 1st Mikey McDonagh 2nd Lucas Wrice
Women’s Final 1st India Robinson 2nd Alyssa Spencer
Subway Pro Junior ndia Robinson (Jan Juc, VIC) and Mikey McDonagh (Lennox Head, NSW) started their 2017 World Surf League Australasian Junior Qualifying Series (JQS) campaign with a bang by taking the first Subway Surf Series Event at Bells Beach in January. Competitors were greeted by fantastic 4ft waves at Bells Beach with the level of surfing impressing all spectators on the beach. Putting together multiple power carves throughout the final, McDonagh was able to best Lucas Wrice (Woolongong, NSW) with a heat total of 12.25 points. “I’m stoked. This is only the second time I have surfed at Bells competitively and to be able to get waves in the Bowl was a dream,” commented McDonagh.
Wrice was one of the standout surfers all event, however was only able to finish with a heat total of 11.00 points in the final. In a down to the wire Women’s Final, India Robinson used her local wave knowledge to take the final over American Alyssa Spencer (San Diego, USA). Robinson took the lead on the siren with her final wave to lock in a heat total of 11.10 points ahead of Spencer who totalled a sore of 10.75 points. “Winning at home means heaps to me. Getting chaired up the beach at Bells Beach by my Brother and Dad was one of the highlights of my career so far” said Robinson. “Being able to have heats at Bells is really special and allows me to get heaps of experience out here for future events.”
“The event had some really good surfers in the draw so I’m over the moon to be able to come out on top.”
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2017 GROUNDSWELL/
Rip Curl Gromsearch After two days of sunshine and offshore winds, the opening stop of the Rip Curl Gromsearch provided competitors with challenging conditions on the final day.
Josh Boyle (Currumbin Waters, QLD) ended up victorious with a heat total of 15.46 points including the finals highest single wave score of 8.83.
Surfing at her home beach, Bella Wilson (Jan Juc, VIC) proved to be hard to beat in the 16 & Under Girls with her strong knowledge of the break and its moods.
“I’m super excited to win the Rip Curl Gromsearch” Boyle said after the final. “This is my first major event win and I’m stoked.”
Scoring a heat total of 9.47 in the final, Wilson tied with fellow Victorian Sage Goldsbury (Phillip Island, VIC) and ended up coming out on top after a countback to the single highest wave (Wilson’s 6.60 wave VS Goldsbury’s 4.97). “I’m excited and happy to win” said Wilson after the final. “It was pretty slow and tricky out there but still fun if you got the right one.” Placing in third was Jesse Starling (Narrabeen, NSW) on 8.26 points, with Emma Cattlin (Yallingup, WA) in fourth on 7.20 points. The 16 & Under Boys Final saw some incredible surfing with multiple excellent scoring rides throughout the final.
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Placing in second was Finn Hill (Avoca, NSW), who amassed a total of 13.66 points. Aiden Lewand-Parsons (Ulladulla, NSW) finished third on 12.50 points with local Jackson Kay (Jan Juc, VIC) in fourth on 7.07 points. Other surfers throughout the event to claim wins in their divisions include Jai Glinderman (Lennox Head), Ellie Harrison (Barwon Heads), Dembe Ryan (Lennox Head) and Mia Huppatz (Jan Juc). Winning the Rip Curl Rising Star Awards were Willis Droomer and Jesse Starling and winning the Top Performer awards were Dembe Ryan and Quincey Symonds).
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Woolworths Surfer Groms Comp Champions have been crowned at the Ocean Grove stop of the Woolworths Surf Groms Comp presented by Wahu.
Ellie Harrison used her superior wave knowledge at the break to take out top honors in the Under 14 Girls, locking in a heat total of 11.40 points.
Barwon Heads surfers dominated in the small tricky conditions, with Zeph Lamperd and Ellie Harrison claiming the Under 14 Boys and Girls titles.
“Every time I have got second at this event, so its nice to finally win” said Harrison.
Lamperd was dominant in the final throwing down massive power turns on his way to a 14.86 heat total.
“The waves weren’t very good, but it was a fun event. I can’t wait to get up to the HPC again and go on their massive skate ramp.”
“It’s awesome to win here at Ocean Grove. All that time surfing here when it has been windy has paid off.” Lamperd and Harrison will now receive an all-expenses paid trip to the Surfing Australia High Performance Center for his efforts. “I have never been to the HPC before, but I have heard its epic. I am looking forward to surfing in some warm water and learning from the coaches up there.” Placing in second in the Under 14 Boys final was Willis Droomer (Jan Juc, VIC). Asher Lens (Aireys Inlet) and Charlie Mahoney (Ocean Grove) finished in third and fourth respectively.
Jazz Wylie (Jan Juc) placed in second on 10.40 points. Mia Huppatz (Jan Juc) and Elise Franzose (Point Lonsdale) finished in third fourth. Other winners throughout the event included Willis Droomer (Jan Juc), Isla Huppatz (Jan Juc), Remy Filer (Jan Juc, Ruby Trew (Seaforth, NSW) and Teal Lamperd (Barwon Heads). Lucas Hickson (Rye) and Sarsha Pancic (Bairgowrie) were awarded the Woolworths Fresh Wave Award for being the Best and Fairest surfers of the event. They walked away with a $250 Woolworths voucher each.
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2017 GROUNDSWELL/
Surfing Victoria Awards 18th Life Membership to Max Wells OAM Surfing Victoria is proud to award the 18th Life Membership to Max Wells OAM.
“I am honoured to be awarded a life membership and join a small group of well deserving recipients.”
Max has been involved in all aspects of the sport of surfing, from management of the Victorian and Australian Surfing Teams, judging at Surfing Victoria events and Event Director of the Rip Curl Pro for 13 years.
“It is extremely special to be given the award and I would like to thank everyone who I have worked with over the past two decades, my family Deb, Sarah and Kate for all of their support and all of the members of Surfing Victoria during my time there.”
Surfing Victoria’s Chairman. Paul Robson, is proud to formally recognise Max’s commitment to Surfing Victoria.
FULL LIST OF SURFING VICTORIA LIFE MEMBERS:
“On behalf of Surfing Victoria, it is a great honour to provide Max Wells OAM with a Life Membership.” “Max’s dedication and impact to the sport of surfing has been huge. He is viewed as a leader, mentor and friend within the surfing community.” “Through Max’s direction, Surfing Victoria has been established as one of the peak sporting bodies in Victoria. This includes the implementation of some amazing programs that embrace diversity, provide fantastic development pathways and engages the wider surfing community.” Max was also awarded the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for service to surfing and to the community in 2014. “Surfing Victoria has been a massive part of my life for over 25 years,” said Max Wells.
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• Don Loveless
• Steve Robertson
• Tony Olsson
• Mal Gregson
• Stan Couper
• Garry Burns
• Gail Couper
• Adrian Sorati
• Vi Couper
• Richie Porta
• Doug Warbrick
• Bob Smith
• Rod Brooks
• Craig Clarke
• Allan Atkins
• Ross Slaven
• Ted Pewtress
• Max Wells
Nudie Australian Boardriders Battle Phillip Island Boardriders Club have claimed the Victorian round of the nudie Australian Boardriders Battle at their home break of Cape Woolamai. With victory at sea conditions at the powerful beachbreak, competitors were faced with strong onshore winds and an increasing swell throughout the day. Phillip Island proved that their local knowledge was superior, by claiming the overall event in a dramatic teams final and scoring a spot in the National Final at Newcastle. Elder statesman of the club, Glyndyn Ringrose was stoked to see Phillip Island back to its glory days of surfing events. “Its unreal to finally win an ABB! Its good to get our club back up to where we were surfing a few years ago.”
“The whole team can’t wait to get up to the National final in Newcastle and go against some of the best clubs in the country.” “This club is so essential to the junior development of surfers on Phillip island. To give them a chance to surf against older more experienced surfers is invaluable for their development.” Placing in second overall was 13th Beach Boardriders, who just fell short of first place with a total of 6725 points After leading for most of the day, Torquay Boardriders club fell at the final hurdle and finished the day overall with a total of 6650 points Placing in fourth was Peninsula Surfriders Club on 6062 points. Scoring the Milwaukee Heavy Duty Hack Award for the biggest turn of the day was Phillip Island surfer Joe van Dijk who threw down a
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2017 GROUNDSWELL/
Surfers Rescue 24/7 Program launched in Victoria The highly successful Surfers Rescue 24/7 program has been by Surfing Victoria as part of the Victorian Governments Play it Safe by the Water initiative.
“Surfers are at the beach 365 days a year regardless of the weather. Giving them the skills to perform CPR and board rescues may one day help save the life of another surfer or even a swimmer.”
Initially developed by Surfing NSW in response to research that found surfers complete more than 50% of rescues in the ocean, the program has been expanded to Western Australia and now Victoria.
Programs will initially be offered to affiliated boardriders clubs and surf industry partners before being offered to the public in 2018.
The free program teaches surfers basic board rescues and CPR skills that will help keep Victorian beaches safe.
More information on the program can be found at www.surfersrescuevic.com
Surfing Victoria CEO, Adam Robertson, is looking forward to rolling this vital program out to surfers across the state.
The Victorian Surfers Rescue 24/7 Program is an funded by Play it Safe by the Water - The Victorian Governments Water Safety Initiative and supported by Surfing Victoria, Surfing NSW and HIF Australia.
“Its fantastic that we are able to run this important program in Victoria, where we have many unpatrolled beaches, particularly during cooler months.”
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PHILLIP ISLAND
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2017 GROUNDSWELL/
Surfing Victoria 2018 Events Schedule
DATE JAN 13-14
EVE NT
D IVI S I O N S
LO CATI O N
Australian Pro Junior Series
Pro Junior
Shortboard
Bells Beach/Jan Juc
JAN 20
Victorian Open Series presented by HIF Round 1
Open Men and Open Women
Shortboard
Mornington Penninsula
JAN 21
HIF Victorian Masters Titles
Masters Men & Women
Masters Shortboard
Mornington Penninsula
FEB 3-4
Woolworths Victorian Junior Surfing Titles Round 1
Boys & Girls U/18, U/16, U/14
Junior Shortboard
Phillip Island
FEB 10-11
Woolworths Victorian Junior Surfing Titles Round 2
Boys & Girls U/18, U/16, U/14
Junior Shortboard
Mornington Penninsula
FEB 17-18
Woorangalook Victorian Koori Surf Titles
All Indigenous
Specialty
Urqhart Bluff
FEB 24-25
HIF Victorian Longboard Titles Round 1
U/18 to O/70
Longboard
Bellerine Peninsula
MAR 3-4
Victorian Open Series presented by HIF Round 2
Open Men & Women
Open Shortboard
Phillip Island
MAR 25-26
Rip Curl Pro Trials
Invitational
Specialty
Bells Beach
Rip Curl Pro
WSL Championship Tour
WSL Championship Tour
Bells Beach
APR 28-29
HIF Victorian SUP Titles
SUP Marathon, SUP Technical, SUP Surfing
Stand Up Paddleboard
Point Impossible/Surf Coast
MAY 4
School Sport Victoria Team Titles
Public School Teams
Public School Teams
Jan Juc
MAY 5-6
Woolworths Victorian Junior Surfing Titles Round 3
Boys & Girls U/18, U/16, U/14
Junior Shortboard
Jan Juc
MAY 7
Independent School Teams Titles
Independent SchoolsTeams
Independent School Teams
Jan Juc
MAY 19-20
HIF Victorian Longboard Titles Round 2
U/18 to O/70
Longboard
Pt. Impossible
MAY 25-27
Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles
Open Men & Women
Specialty
Bells Beach
SEPT 1-2
Victorian Junior Surfing Titles presented by HIF Round 3
Boys U/18, U/16, U/14 Girls U/18, U/16, U/14
Junior Shortboard
Jan Juc
Worksafe Tradies Challenge
Specialty
Shortboard
Jan Juc
MAR 28APR 9
OCT 13
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