Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles return to Bells Beach in 2021

Surfing Victoria has announced that the Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles presented by Rip Curl and Headsox is set to return to Bells Beach on Wadawurrung Country in May 2021.

After no event in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the event will bring together the best Australian First Nations surfers from around the country in a celebration of culture and surfing lasting three days from 28th – 30th May at Bells Beach.

Muna Muna man and Surfing Victoria Indigenous Aquatics Manager, Jordie Campbell enthuses "It will be amazing to have all the community from across the county back gathering at Bells Beach. Last year had a massive impact on everyone and with all the Indigenous surf comps across the county being cancelled we were not able to gather as First Nation people in one place."

"These gatherings are very empowering for our people and allow us to see friends and family from across the country, tell stories, heal and grow as one."  

The event will host divisions including Open Men and Women, Junior Men and Women (U18), Masters (O35), Elders (O50) and Longboard.

Rip Curl Australia event manager Mark Flanagan notes “having the Australian Indigenous titles at Bells is a great way to celebrate Australian surfing in our back yard and welcome surfers from all over the country. Rip Curl is stoked to be working with Surfing Vic to help support what we view as an important part of our surfing heritage.”

Headsox Director Phil Stammers adds “Headsox is proud to be a sponsor of the Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles:  it’s like no other surfing event. Seldom do we see competitors come together to celebrate community first before the individual. The vibe is relaxed and friendly. The competitor stoke is real and whilst all competitors bring their best it’s more about connection to community and country. We love being a part of this wonderful cultural event and we wish the competitors and families a happy safe time. Come along and be a part of it!”

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, Narana Aboriginal Cultural Center, VACSAL, Yakeen Safety and Woolworths.

Entries are now open for Australian First Nations Surfers via www.surfingvic.com

Image: Open Women's Champion Jasmine McCorqudale competing at the 2019 event. Credit: Harrison / Surfing Victoria