Surfing Australia's 'RISE' development camp backs female coaches, judges and officials

40 accredited female coaches, judges and officials have come together at Surfing Australia’s Hyundai High Performance Centre for the 2025 RISE Development Camp - a program designed to empower, inspire and connect individuals, while strengthening women’s pathways towards leaderships roles in surfing.

Held on 23rd and 24th June, the two-day program delivered targeted up-skilling, career development and connection for women working across key areas of the surf industry.

Supported by $1 million in funding from the Federal Government’s Play Our Way initiative, the camp forms part of Surfing Australia RISE - a national program dedicated to creating more accessible and inclusive opportunities for women and girls in surfing.

Over the course of the camp, participants engaged in a mix of structured learning, practical skill-building, and personal development workshops.

Sessions included:

• Surf judging deep dives and video analysis to refine skills and decision-making as an elite competitive surfing judge.

• On-beach coaching intensives, where participants developed strategies to better support athlete progression.

• Workshops focused on storytelling, intention setting, and female-specific athlete development, led by experienced facilitators.

• Group discussions, ice baths and yoga recovery sessions to prioritise wellness and longevity in the industry.

The camp created space for accredited women to share experiences, build confidence, and establish lasting professional connections within a supportive network.

Touching on the goals of the RISE program, Surfing Australia's Women's Participation & Development Manager, Shanice Ryder stated "RISE is about removing the barriers that have held women and girls back in surfing.

"We know the talent and passion is there - what’s been missing is equal access to opportunity, support and representation. Through RISE, we’re creating the kind of programs, pathways and culture that allow women to step into their potential and be seen, heard, and valued in every part of the surf industry."

The initiative directly responds to long-standing barriers faced by women in surfing - from limited representation and unequal pay, to a lack of tailored development opportunities. RISE is Surfing Australia’s commitment to breaking those down.

Beyond the camp, the program supports:

• • The creation of new women’s boardrider clubs

• • Courses for coaches, judges, and officials tailored specifically for women

• • Enhanced support within existing clubs

• • A broader cultural shift toward equity and representation in surfing

Images: Participants in the recent RISE development programs. Credit: Surfing Australia.